Inspiration: “It occurred to me that no one was making kid
logos for golf clothes so kids could look like Tiger Woods
or Vijay Singh — so they could dress up like their heroes,”
Kris Wilson said. After searching for golf-themed gear for
their own kids (ages 12 and 2, with another on the way), the
Wilsons designed cartoon logos of brother and sister turtles
called Putter and Sandy that now adorn their golf-themed clothing.
“There really wasn't anything out there for infants that was
fun and about golf,” Keri Wilson said.
Higher calling: “I believe golf can introduce children to
life's most important lessons, such as sportsmanship, perseverance
and confidence,” Kris Wilson said.
Business tip for tough economy: “Although we started in complete
economic uncertainty, we feel that the depth of our product
line and exceptional quality will keep us growing at a steady
rate. We've structured the company in a way that allows for
very little overhead,” Kris Wilson said. While the clothing
line is sold at several retail outlets around the country,
most sales are through the company's Web site. The Wilsons
have tried to find manufacturers in the U.S., and a number
of items — including knickers, socks and the diaper bag — are
made here, but much of the line is manufactured overseas. All
design, marketing, embroidery and distribution is based in
Asheville and Weaverville.
Local partner: “We are happy to see a local, family-based
company producing elegant, high-quality garments,” said Rosiland
Whiteley, owner of Heaven Rains Maternity and Children's Store.
“The Littlest Golfer products appeal to dads and grandpas —
there's very little children's apparel that speaks to the male
population.”
Where to buy: In Asheville, you can purchase the company's
clothing at Heaven Rains at the Grove Arcade. The Grove Park
Inn's golf shop will carry the line starting next spring. The
Wilsons are focusing on introducing their clothing line to
resorts, boutiques and department stores. Online at www.thelittlestgolfer.
com.
Up next: The Wilsons have written a series of children's books
based on their turtle characters. The first is “ABCs of Golf,”
which is now being illustrated. They've also designed a kids
golf club that will be for sale before the holidays.
Doing good: For the past two years, The Littlest Golfer has
sponsored the Eliada Homes Charity Golf Classic and a golf
tournament for Next Step Recovery, a transitional living facility
in Montford. The company will sponsor a young golfer in the
Kids Fore Kids tournament this month in Florida, which benefits
the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. |
