Tell us about your company and/or your products.
For more than 75 years, Leanin’ Tree, Inc. has been manufacturing greeting cards and gift products that connect people, comfort hearts, and make our customers smile. Located in Colorado, this employee-owned, “Made-in-America” company features original artwork and editorial from hundreds of creative content providers with a goal of helping every retailer and consumer find unique, high-quality, and affordable cards for all sending occasions.
What’s your role at your company?
As the Senior Project Manager, I participate in art and editorial selection, interact with artists and licensing agents, maintain important product information that the rest of the organization relies on, and of course, represent Leanin’ Tree in the GCA.
Why did you become a GCA member and tell us about your GCA experience so far.
Leanin’ Tree is a long-time member of the GCA and once Susan January was ready to step back from her role in the GCA, she asked if I would be interested in becoming the liaison to the Association. I was so honored that she trusted me to carry on her legacy and step into her very stylish shoes.
I jumped right in and joined the Workshop + Retreat and Louie Committees and was the chair for this year’s Workshop. I am very excited to be the incoming chair of the Public Affairs committee.
I didn’t expect to make so many personal connections right away – I genuinely look forward to seeing my GCA colleagues on weekly calls and I have learned so much about the industry. I wasn’t kidding when I said I can identify most makers on a 40 card in-line in under a minute!
What inspired you to get involved in the greeting card industry?
I’ve always loved greeting cards…it is such a simple concept really, a folded piece of paper letting people know that you are thinking of them, celebrating them or grieving with them. Often, the cards say what we can’t articulate.
After I left a 15-year career in environmental permitting and water rights brokerage, I wanted my next chapter to be in a creative industry. I began my career at Leanin’ Tree as Mr. Ed Trumble’s assistant and a Product Management Associate. Eventually, I became the Product Delivery Coordinator and then advanced to Product Manager and Senior Product Manager. I will forever appreciate the opportunity I was given by the Trumble family and was lucky to learn about the industry under the tutelage of Tom and Jane Trumble and Susan January.
What's something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I was probably the only Hallmark Crown Card carrying kid in my high school and I married the town Postmistress’ son. My whole life has led to this moment!
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I honestly don’t think there is a more kind, inclusive and generous industry than this one and I’m incredibly grateful to have made a career in the happiness business.
Jory Kate Haslett
Leanin' Tree
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