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The Beach Day Epiphany: How a Dirty iPad Sparked a Bright Idea
Sitting on a beach at Sanibel Island, Laura Bartmess Goeglein wasn’t thinking about starting a business. But as she watched her seven-year-old daughter juggling snacks and a smudged iPad, inspiration struck.
“The only thing in reach to clean the screen was a stuffed animal,” Laura laughs. “Any parent knows stuffed animals are like honorary family members—they’re everywhere!”
That moment planted the seed for Skreenies, quirky plush companions with microfiber bottoms designed to keep screens spotless. The idea was simple yet brilliant: a screen cleaner that’s always within reach and doubles as a desk accessory or backpack buddy.
From Advertising Exec to Inventor: Turning an Idea Into Reality
Laura wasn’t new to big ideas, but finding time to act on them was another matter. Between a demanding career in advertising and raising two busy teenagers, she often brainstormed in her “spare time.”
“I thrive on coming up with new ways to approach things—it’s part of my DNA,” Laura shares. Her early vision for Skreenies centered on a ninja character. “I loved the idea of a little guy who kicks butt and tackles smudges—hi-ya!” she recalls.
Her family played an integral role in shaping the concept. “Our brainstorming sessions were like creative workshops at the kitchen table,” Laura says. “My daughter had the best ideas for facial expressions, and my husband’s sketches brought the characters to life.”
After collaborating with a Chicago artist and a family-owned manufacturer, the first batch of Skreenies came to life, complete with adorable designs, microfiber bottoms, and weighted bases to keep them standing at attention.
The First Sale: From Friends to Fans
Like many entrepreneurs, Laura’s first sales came from friends and family, but the real magic happened when strangers started buying Skreenies. “When someone I didn’t know bought one, it was an incredible feeling. It made me realize people recognized the value of what I had created,” she says.
Customers are drawn to Skreenies for their charm and functionality. One fan described them as “quirky little superheroes for screens,” while others rave about their thoughtful design.
Grommet Success: A Partnership That Changed Everything
Partnering with Grommet was a pivotal moment for Laura. “Navigating social media and finding customers online is a constantly evolving world. Grommet made it seamless,” she explains.
The validation of earning Product of the Week on Grommet was a turning point. “It confirmed that my product is something people want and need,” Laura says. With Grommet’s support, Skreenies reached a larger audience, turning a grassroots effort into a thriving business.
Lessons in Entrepreneurship: Risk, Persistence, and Family Collaboration
Bringing Skreenies to life wasn’t without its challenges. “Impostor syndrome hit hard—I kept worrying no one would buy them,” Laura admits. But she leaned into the support of her trusted circle, who encouraged her to take the leap.
“Sometimes opportunity is all loss until you gain traction. Risk is scary, but you can’t succeed without it.”
If she could give advice to her younger self, Laura would remind herself not to worry about pace. “It took years to hit 1,000 sales, and at times I felt defeated staring at a garage full of inventory. But if you believe in your product, keep at it. Stay the course, and progress will come.”
Laura’s background in advertising also instilled a crucial lesson: showing up matters. “Answering emails, making connections, saying yes to opportunities—it all adds up. Sometimes, just being authentic and ready to contribute earns you the trust and confidence you need.”
The Future of Skreenies: Keeping Screens—and Lives—Smudge-Free
Today, Skreenies are beloved by kids, teens, and adults for their playful designs and practical uses. Whether perched on a desk, tucked in a backpack, or sitting in a drawer, these quirky characters are ready to save screens everywhere.
Laura’s vision is clear: “I want Skreenies in homes, schools, and offices across the world. Keeping devices spotless has never been so fun.”
Right now, readers of ValiantCEO can get 20% off this top-selling product through our partnership with Grommet. Click here to learn more about Skreenies and get your discount now.
