In the winter of 2003 I asked my parents for a 1” button maker for Christmas. To ensure to the best of my ability this request would come true, I wrote a business plan on how I would make money with the 1” button maker, and that I would reimburse them in full for the entire gift! I guess I was asking for more of a loan, really. At the time I didn’t have any goals to run the family pharmacy, as I do now, but small business was clearly in my blood.
I started my company ‘Button Monster’ making pins for friends and local bands at NNHS, and would go to concerts at the Fireside Bowl in Chicago and ask upstart bands if they were in need of pins. In no time, I had paid my parents back, and Button Monster was my venture until I set off for college a couple of years later.
Fast forward 20 years, it’s been a while since I’ve made any pins for musical acts, but vintage style Naperville pins you ask? I made some just last week! While my 1” pin maker still works as well as the Christmas I received it, I acquired some larger pin makers from American Button Machines and new materials last month and got back into the button business. The machines and raw button materials are all made in the USA, and the designs and assembly are done right here in Naperville by yours truly.
In the spirit of Oswald’s 150th anniversary, I put together some Naperville pins celebrating historical Naperville events (100, 150 & 175th anniversaries, the 1987 Spirit Campaign) and two Oswald’s buttons featuring our 1950’s and 1980’s logos. Beyond our buttons, we have the largest selection of Naperville souvenirs in town. From prints and keychains designed by local artists, to recent favorite, Naperville themed puzzles. For friends and family who have moved out of Naperville, or are in town visiting, don’t forget to stop by Ozzie’s to procure the best souvenirs in town!
Valentine’s day will be here before you know it. Don’t forget to shop our delightful selection of gifts, cards and candy before it’s too late. We’re happy to help you find the perfect gift for anyone in your family! ꝶ
