00:00 Introduction to Jan Craig Headcovers
01:16 The Legacy of a Family Business
04:06 The Story of Jan Craig's Grandmother
07:32 Growing Up in the Business
10:09 Handmade Craftsmanship and Community
12:13 The Shift to Modern Marketing
18:29 Taking Over the Family Business
23:41 Current Challenges and Future Goals
25:29 Overcoming Perfectionism and Procrastination
27:14 The Power of Short-Term Goals
28:31 The Value of Strategic Collaborations
31:45 Understanding the Evolving Golf Demographic
33:15 Empowering Women in Golf
37:35 The Importance of Customization in Golf Products
42:01 Networking and Mentorship in the Golf Industry
From Knitting Needles to Golf Clubs: The Legacy of Jan Craig Headcovers
Janet Craig, the third-generation owner of Jan Craig Headcovers, recently sat down with Allison Putnam to discuss her family's remarkable journey in the golf industry. This iconic brand, known for its handcrafted headcovers, has been a staple in the golfing world for over six decades.
A Family Affair
Janet's story begins long before she was born. In 1962, her grandmother, Jan Craig, started the business almost by accident. An avid golfer herself, Jan couldn't find headcovers she liked for her new golf bag. So, she did what any resourceful knitter would do – she made her own.
Little did Jan know that her handiwork would catch the eye of none other than Jack Nicklaus, who tracked her down and requested her headcovers. As Nicklaus's star rose in the golfing world, so did the visibility of Jan Craig Headcovers.
Carrying on the Legacy
Janet's involvement in the family business started early. She recalls spending childhood afternoons cutting yarn and tying color palettes – a task that remains a manual process to this day. This hands-on approach is emblematic of the company's commitment to craftsmanship and quality.
From Journalism to Jan Craig
Despite her deep roots in the golf industry, Janet initially pursued a different path. She majored in journalism in college, dreaming of becoming the next Marty Hackel, the renowned editor of Golf Digest]. However, life had other plans, and Janet found herself at the helm of Jan Craig Headcovers five years ago[.
Handmade with Love
One of the most remarkable aspects of Jan Craig Headcovers is their dedication to handcrafted quality. Even today, all their products are 100% hand-knit by a team of skilled artisans in the Chicagoland area]. This commitment to craftsmanship sets them apart in an age of mass production.
Challenges and Opportunities
As a business owner, Janet faces unique challenges. She acknowledges the struggle with perfectionism and procrastination, emphasizing the importance of setting short-term goals. She also recognizes the need to modernize marketing strategies while staying true to the brand's heritage.
Janet is keenly aware of the evolving demographics in golf. She sees a growing opportunity to empower women in the sport and recognizes the importance of customization in products. This insight drives her approach to product development and marketing.
One of the most heartening aspects of Janet's experience has been the supportive community of women in the golf industry. She emphasizes the value of networking and mentorship, highlighting the collaborative spirit that exists among women in the field.
Looking Ahead
As Jan Craig Headcovers moves into the future, Janet remains committed to honoring her grandmother's legacy while adapting to the changing landscape of golf. She continues to explore strategic collaborations and innovative ways to reach new audiences, all while maintaining the handcrafted quality that has been the hallmark of Jan Craig Headcovers for over 65 years.
In a world of mass-produced goods, Jan Craig Headcovers stands as a testament to the enduring value of craftsmanship, family tradition, and the personal touch. As Janet Craig leads the company into its seventh decade, she carries with her not just her grandmother's name, but a legacy of quality, innovation, and passion for the game of golf.
Our Women in Golf series celebrates and showcases women's involvement and achievements in the golf industry. It features interviews with accomplished women in various roles, such as professional golfers, instructors, founders, artists, and more. The series aims to inspire by sharing the unique stories and experiences of these women, highlighting their contributions and the challenges they have overcome.
