We recently partnered with Jessica Muraco, a creative Michigan mom, to create a new product line of healthcare appreciation gifts. Here, Jessica shares the story of developing Steth-o-Charms in her own words!

Thinking, thinking, thinking. My mind never rests. Fortunately, one sleepless night in 2009 gave rise to the product I invented. Steth-o-Charms now grace the cover and multiple pages in Baudville’s new spring 2012 catalog. I am excited to announce that in less than twenty eight months, I have designed, patented, self-manufactured, and marketed my idea. Here’s my story. I hope it inspires you to put your thoughts and ideas into motion instead of just dreaming about them!

I left the workforce back in 2009 to be home with my son, Anderson. Leaving the healthcare industry left me feeling a little sad but obviously there was no question; home with Anderson was where I wanted to be. We were getting use to one income, but somehow I still felt guilty about not contributing to our financial needs. After a poor night’s sleep, I began reminiscing about my past life as a dedicated student and my love for medicine.

Then my thoughts started snowballing one after another, and it came to me. I should use the gifts I have been given. How could I combine creativity, medicine, and still be able to be a stay-at-home-mom? In the blink of an eye, the idea of stethoscope charms came to mind, and I ran with it.

I immediately started sketching designs, pulling out my stethoscope, and wrapping different materials on it. The excitement was intense because I truly believed this was a great idea.  For days I designed different attachments, added decorative pieces, stocked up on jewelry accessories, and tried different adhesives. I pitched my idea to my husband and family with a preliminary prototype. They all gave me great reviews!

Over a period of two and a half years, I patented my project, gathered data, opened a website, and bought a Magic Jack phone for sales. I filled orders by self-manufacturing them in my garage and kitchen, just as I had set to do. I also had fun cold calling local hospitals, gift stores, medical offices, even a guest on the Ellen DeGeneres show. The feedback I received was always positive and encouraged me to keep going! 

However, I needed consistent inventory, and the local craft stores would often run out of the accessories I need to create Steth-o-Charms. It was becoming a hassle to get orders completed in a timely manner. I went back to the drawing board and came up with the idea to use lapel pins!

Upon doing research for healthcare lapel pins, I found Baudville. I was amazed at all the healthcare lapel pins they offered! That very moment I called Baudville to see if I could buy some of their lapel pins to make my own product. I was astounded when I was put through to the Vice President, Kristy Sherlund.  We hit it off right away and by the end of our conversation scheduled a meeting to review my product in person. 

Needless to say, our meeting went beyond well! Baudville offered to partner with me and bring Steth-o-Charms to market in less than six months for the 2012 spring catalog launch and in time for National Nurses Week. Mission accomplished!

I am proud to be a part of the Baudville Family! Hats off to the entire Baudville team! Thank you for all of your dedication and believing in my creation. I am thrilled to see my idea brought to life nationwide! I’m feeling right where I want to be in life- now onto the next idea!

Shop Steth-o-Charms today for healthcare appreciation gifts and National Nurses Week!

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Cori is Baudville's in-house Recognitionista (she's officially a Certified Recognition Professional, too)  and a member of the Millennial generation. Get her employee recognition tips and special discounts by liking Baudville on Facebook.