Shelli Gardner boasts a substantial net worth of $10 million, primarily amassed through her role as the co-founder and chairperson of Stampin’ Up!
Renowned for co-founding Stampin’ Up!, a leading paper crafting and stamp company based in the United States, Gardner initiated the company as a humble endeavor from her living room alongside her sister.
Over time, Stampin’ Up! evolved into a global phenomenon, garnering widespread recognition for its innovative approach to paper crafting. In acknowledgment of her entrepreneurial contributions, Ernst and Young honored Gardner with the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year award in 1999.
Born in Southern California, Gardner later relocated to Kanab, Utah, where she established her personal and professional roots. At the age of 18, she tied the knot with her husband, Real Gardner, and together they settled in Las Vegas, Nevada, where Real managed a business.
Following her retirement from her role as the CEO of Stampin’ Up!, Gardner, alongside her husband, embarked on a mission to serve The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Despite stepping down from her executive position, Gardner remains actively involved in Stampin’ Up!, providing valuable insights as the board chair. She maintains a modest online presence, striving to post at least twice a week, typically sharing concise and meaningful messages.
Additionally, Gardner has been a member of the BYU Marriott School of Business since around 2001.
Real Gardner, Shelli’s husband, also possesses considerable wealth. The couple married at a young age, with Shelli emphasizing her roles as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend as paramount in her life.
Upon their wedding, the Gardners relocated to Las Vegas, where Real operated a custom home-building business in partnership with Shelli’s sister’s husband. Seeking additional income streams, Shelli dabbled in various direct sales ventures before co-founding Stampin’ Up! alongside her sister.
Stampin’ Up! has made significant strides in the global market, generating over $200 million in sales. From rubber stamp sets to metal embellishments and beyond, the company has expanded its product offerings, catering to a loyal customer base spanning ten countries.
Initially inspired by the direct sales models of companies like Tupperware, Discovery Toys, and Mary Kay, Stampin’ Up! pioneered its own approach to the industry, eventually designing and manufacturing its own stamp sets.
Following several relocations, including moves to Stone City and eventually back to their hometown of Kanab, Stampin’ Up! continues to thrive as a testament to Shelli Gardner’s entrepreneurial vision and commitment to creative expression.
In 1996, three years after its inception, Gardner and LaVonne expanded operations by establishing corporate offices in Salt Lake City, Utah.
In 2004, they further expanded by opening administrative offices and a distribution center in Riverton.
Stampin’ Up! has a global presence with demonstrators not only across the United States but also in Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
While the distribution headquarters is located in Riverton, the company operates a manufacturing plant in Kanab.
Assuming the role of President in 1998, Shelli played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and success. In 2015, she announced her daughter, Sara Douglas, would take over the reins of the company while she and her spouse would embark on a mission for the LDS Church.