SmBizShowcaseMag-Logo

Celebrating the small business and entrepreneurial spirit! Join us in promoting your brand!

Celebrating the small business and entrepreneurial spirit! Join us in promoting your brand!

From Nomadic Beginnings To A Michiana Staple

Gail Stavick - The Blanket Hog

From Nomadic Beginnings To A Michiana Staple Gail and Steve Stavick embarked on a remarkable journey that would forever shape their lives. Setting aside any doubts, they sold all their possessions with the intention of starting fresh in the enchanting paradise of Hawaii. Though their dreams of island life did not come to fruition, they […]

LifeSaver Simplified: Mercie May’s Strategic Vision

LifeSaver Simplified: Mercie May’s Strategic Vision for Empowering Small Businesses

LifeSaver Simplified: Mercie May’s Strategic Vision for Empowering Small Businesses   LifeSaver Simplified, founded by Mercie May, stands out as a beacon for small businesses struggling with human resources (HR) challenges. With nearly two decades of entrepreneurial and HR experience, Mercie understands the multifaceted roles small business owners juggle daily. Her venture offers a unique solution […]

How To Build A Strong Freelance Network

How To Build A Strong Freelance Network Freelancer Synergy: Connecting, Collaborating, and Conquering the Gig Jungle

How To Build A Strong Freelance Network Freelancer Synergy: Connecting, Collaborating, and Conquering the Gig Jungle Let’s face it, the freelance life can be a thrilling rollercoaster. One day you’re basking in the glory of landing a dream client, the next you’re wrestling with rogue invoices and wondering where the next project will come from. […]

The Inventive Legacy of Beulah Louise Henry

The Inventive Legacy of Beulah Louise Henry

The Inventive Legacy of Beulah Louise Henry As a passionate entrepreneur with a penchant for innovation, I have always admired individuals who have left an indelible mark on the world through their ingenuity and creativity. One such trailblazer who continues to inspire me is Beulah Louise Henry, a remarkable woman whose inventive spirit and entrepreneurial […]

Spotlight on Valerie Baker-Wynn: The Heartbeat of Windblown Travel

Windblown Travel Featured Article

Spotlight on Valerie Baker-Wynn: The Heartbeat of Windblown Travel From Passion to Profession Valerie Baker-Wynn, the driving force behind Windblown Travel, LLC, in South Bend, Indiana, discovered her calling in the travel industry through a serendipitous turn of events. She found herself traveling with friends on a trip that was very poorly planned by someone […]

Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend

Stockroom East Featured Article

Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend In the heart of South Bend’s East Bank District, you’ll find a dynamic creative community space called Stockroom East. Officially opening its doors in 2021, this multifaceted venue offers a blend of coworking, event hosting, and live music performances, attracting a diverse crowd from […]

The PC Doctor Is In: Joe Lightner’s Prescription for Small Business Tech Health

Joe Lightner - The PC Doctor

The PC Doctor Is In: Joe Lightner’s Prescription for Small Business Tech Health In the rapidly evolving world of technology, where change is the only constant, Joe Lightner, known affectionately as The PC Doctor, has carved out a niche in the small business sector. His journey from a radio broadcaster to a computer technician exemplifies […]

Riverbend Apparel and Promotions:A Family’s Journey Through Adversity to Success

RiverBend Apparel and Promotions

Riverbend Apparel and Promotions: A Family’s Journey Through Adversity to Success When Becky Mackowicz decided to take a leap of faith in October 2019 and purchase Riverbend Apparel and Promotions with her husband John, she had no idea what challenges lay ahead. As a branding company specializing in embroidery and screen printing on promotional items […]

6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process

6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process

6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process As a small business owner or entrepreneur, managing projects effectively is essential to your success. A well-structured project management process not only keeps you organized but also helps you deliver consistent results for clients and stakeholders. Here’s a straightforward guide to setting up a project management […]

Hedwig Kiesler: The Ingenious Innovator Behind the Glamour

Hedwig Kiesler: The Ingenious Innovator Behind the Glamour

Hedwig Kiesler: The Ingenious Innovator Behind the Glamour In the annals of Hollywood history, few names evoke as much intrigue and admiration as Hedwig Kiesler. Known to most by her screen name, Hedy Lamarr, she was more than just a stunning actress of the Golden Age of Hollywood. Beyond the silver screen, Kiesler was a […]

EDITOR'S PICKS

So You’re Ready to Hire Your First Employee? 
Mental Health Awareness Month - Why It Matters for Business Owners
Mental Health Awareness Month – Why It Matters for Business Owners
How to Market a Niche or Controversial Product - Smart Strategies for Standing Out Without Stirring Trouble
How to Market a Niche or Controversial Product – Smart Strategies for Standing Out Without Stirring Trouble
Women's Entrepreneur Summit - Round Tables for Success.
Ignite Your Next Chapter – Why You MUST Be at the Women’s Entrepreneur Summit – Round Tables for Success.
Steady in Uncertain Times How Business Owners Can Stay Steady in Uncertain Times
Steady in Uncertain Times
Mastering Facebook Marketing
Mastering Facebook Marketing

Our Sponsors

One ActionCoach

Read Our Article

Gary Riggs Photography

Read Our Article

Griner Law Group

Read Our Article

MD Advertising

Read our Staff Articles

Bee Trustworthy Homes

Read our Staff Articles

A+ Window Cleaners

Read our Article

One ActionCoach

Read Our Article

Gary Riggs Photography

Read Our Article

Griner Law Group

Read Our Article

MD Advertising

Read our Staff Articles

Bee Trustworthy Homes

Read our Staff Articles

A+ Window Cleaners

Read our Article

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Keep up with us & Subscribe to our news letter.

Subscribe to our newsletter and get exclusive business tips, success stories, and updates straight to your inbox. Don’t miss your chance to stay connected and inspired!

Newsletter

We never spam, we hate it too.

© 2025 SmBiz Spirit LLC — Small Business Showcase – All rights reserved.
Developed in partnership with Enliven Collective Marketing.

From Nomadic Beginnings To A Michiana Staple

Gail and Steve Stavick embarked on a remarkable journey that would forever shape their lives. Setting aside any doubts, they sold all their possessions with the intention of starting fresh in the enchanting paradise of Hawaii. Though their dreams of island life did not come to fruition, they remained undeterred in the face of a pivotal crossroad.

Serendipity intervened when Gail and Steve stumbled upon a warehouse brimming with exquisite, custom blankets. The irresistible opportunity to share these cozy creations with the world propelled them to seize the moment and establish their own venture – The Blanket Hog.

Initially, The Blanket Hog operated as a seasonal pop-up business, which quickly garnered substantial success. Encouraged by their achievements, Gail and Steve embarked on an adventurous endeavor to explore different locations. Their journey began in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, followed by prosperous ventures in Richmond, VA, Champagne, IL, and Rockford, IL. Each location spanned six months, with the remaining six months dedicated to attending trade shows to complement their seasonal presence in malls.

However, life had further surprises in store for the enterprising duo. A sudden curveball materialized when Steve fell ill, demanding substantial treatment and recovery time. Yet, determined to persevere, they confronted yet another crossroad. Opting to establish their shop at the U.P. Mall in Mishawaka, Indiana, where they could rely on the support of their caring family, Gail shouldered the responsibility of managing the store while Steve concentrated on regaining his health.

From Nomadic Beginnings To A Michiana Staple

As they settled into the welcoming Mishawaka community, Gail and Steve nurtured their newfound home. In pursuit of growth and expansion, they diversified their product line and cultivated a formidable online presence. Alongside their cherished blankets, The Blanket Hog began offering personalized metalworks, sports-themed yard signs, and fully customized cornhole game boards. The triumph they experienced at the U.P. Mall became the catalyst for transforming their enterprise into a year-round business, occupying a more expansive and impressive location than ever before.

Today, The Blanket Hog beckons visitors at the U.P. Mall, where an array of personalized blankets and an abundance of delightful products await discovery. Gail and Steve’s journey, from their adventurous beginnings to becoming an adored establishment in Michiana, stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment, resilience, and the boundless passion they inject into bringing comfort and joy to others.

Within the walls of The Blanket Hog, a heartfelt craftsmanship and personalized details enlivens every cherished keepsake,
radiating warmth and fostering cherished memories. Whether you step through their physical store doors or immerse yourself in their online realm, you’ll encounter the genuine care and dedication infused into each and every item.

Therefore, venture into The Blanket Hog at the U.P. Mall and allow Gail and Steve to guide you through a realm of customized blankets and a treasure trove of delightful offerings. Let their story inspire you to embrace unexpected odysseys, find solace amidst challenges, and create enduring moments of joy.

Written by Staff Writer. 

The Blanket Hog