Peggy
Kupper never colored "pigs pink" Her innate interest has
always bordered on the unconventional. Although she studied art
in college, her creativity flourished better without instructors
who insisted on following "formats." To Peggy, art was
to enjoy - to have fun. According to her, " A camera can capture
realism." A canvas should capture the creativity of the artist.
Peg's subjects capture her love of the out-of-doors - woodland
creatures, outdoors sports, and open space landscapes where she
has lived and played her whole life. Living in Jackson Hole, Wyoming,
drew her to the wildlife of the area - bears, moose, deer, elk,
and a host of other critters. However, in the shops she found
few wildlife themes in Christmas ornaments.
When Peg's two boys were small, she always enjoyed bringing home
souvenirs, especially ornaments, from her travels. The search
for quality crafted ornaments often left her frustrated. Ornaments
that could also be toys - sturdy enough to withstand the antics
of two young boys - were an elusive lot.
So, she decided to make her own! Her first venture into the hand-crafted
ornament world was salt dough ornaments. To her first art show,
as almost an afterthought, she brought along some wooden pull-string
bear and moose ornaments she had created. The popularity of the
bears overwhelmed both her and Larry, her husband. The ornaments
she created were introduced at a local Christmas store and became
an instant hit! Even Larry saw the potential in her new business!
Thus was born Mother Moose Enterprises®. From humble beginnings
around a kitchen table in 1986, to a flourishing business today,
the Kuppers live the American dream - a business of their own,
combining talents, skills, creative genius, and perseverance to
make it happen.
Today, Mother Moose ornaments are sold in nearly every state
in the country. Designs are exclusively Peggy's but production
has been increased to include some "elves" who help
in handcrafting the ornaments. Although Peg's children have outgrown
playing with ornaments, the family is still all involved in the
business.
Reaching children of all ages through stories remains one of
Peg's dreams. She would like to write and illustrate playful children's
books. With Mother Moose as her guide, she may just reach that
dream! |