Meet Jinni Giltner, Mom of 2 and Creator of MuddPony, a shop that creates modern handmade stick pony’s and companion dolls. My daughter is obsessed with Jinni’s shop, and I am sure your kids will be too once they see all of the fun, adorable, and colorful creations MuddPony creates. Find out what inspired Jinni to start MuddPony, her favorite item to make, her favorite Tulsa date night spot, and more in this weeks Meet a Mom interview!
How long have you lived in Tulsa?
My whole life. I was born at Hillcrest and now live in Bixby.
What was your inspiration for starting MuddPony?
My great aunt made me a stick pony that I still have. My girls started playing with him and we realized how fragile he was. So my mom and I set out to recreate one that was a little more modern. 7 years later, and we’ve added a lot more to what we create.
Who taught you how to sew?
My mom. She was always sewing when I was little. I didn’t truly get into sewing until I had my first baby. I started making blankets, jackets and then toys.
What is your favorite product in your shop to make?
Oh man, that’s a tough question! They are all so fun, but I still love making the Mini Mudd Ponies. They are each so unique and even if I use the same fabric twice, they never look exactly alike. But seeing those Littles pick up a stick pony and take a ride; that brings so much joy to them and me.
Which one of your adorable items do kids seem to like the best?
I would say it’s a tie between the Muddies and the dolls, they love to try on all the outfits!
How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
I have to girls who are 12 and 9, they keep me on my toes!
What is your favorite family activity in Tulsa?
Any museum! We just love hanging out and enjoying the art.
What is your favorite date night spot in Tulsa?
We love Tres Amigos or Cabin Boys Brewery.
What advice would you give to another Mother that has a great product idea, but isn’t sure if she should dive in?
Do it! What’s the worst that will happen? It doesn’t work out and you are right back where you are now? I quit my full time job before my business ever took off, I was lucky to have a great support system. If I hadn’t done that, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to really focus on my next step in life. Also, ask for help. That was the hardest lesson I learned. Tulsa has an amazing maker community that wants to support and help others. Ask all those dumb questions, pick their brains!
How can us Mama’s find your shop?
My website is muddpony.com.
I’m hosting a class on April 9th at Salt and Soul in Coweta and I also have goodies in their shop; Wildflower Market on Brookside and be on the lookout for my newest spot coming soon!
I’ll also be at Cohlemia’s Spring Fest, April 23rd and Modern Mom Market May 21st.
