Although her products are playful, her purpose is serious.
Julie Hellwich, founder and president of Girl Babies, Inc.,
creates merchandise that acknowledges the strength and
resourcefulness of women, using stylized 1950s imagery
and clever slogans: a package of chalk proclaims, “Smart
Women Chalk It Up To Experience,” pencils state “Smart
Women Get To The Point,” and erasers declare “Smart
Women Make Changes.” With humor and élan,
a simple coffee mug, a roll of masking tape, or a stack
of paper party napkins communicate a strong but plain message.
A single mom with two Masters degrees, Hellwich has worked
in a battered women’s shelter, made candles, drove
a bus, and taught pre-school. Her background and varied
work experiences influence her products and corporate philosophy.
What started out as a one-woman operation – Hellwich
initially did all of the design and manufacturing herself – the
Smart Women line has expanded. While Hellwich now out-sources
the design, manufacturing, and distribution, she carefully
researches the working conditions of those who make her
products, and will work only with manufacturers who have
ethical labor conditions. Hellwich also donates a portion
of her proceeds to several progressive women’s organizations
because she believes that all her endeavors must reflect
her commitment to social justice.
“I try to create things that will make women feel
good about what they’re doing and who they are.” says
Hellwich. Indeed!
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