From Babysitter to Brand Builder: Founder Hires Go-To Babysitter as Sales and Marketing Associate

GRAND RAPIDS, MI, August 17, 2024 -- What started as a connection in a local Facebook babysitting group has turned into a new chapter for Northern Classics.

Founder Kristin Ruud has officially brought on Jenna Muller, once her go-to babysitter, as Sales and Marketing Associate - marking a unique hire rooted in trust, real-life experience with the brand, and an unexpected creative partnership.

Ruud first met Muller through a Facebook babysitting group when she was looking for occasional childcare support. Muller quickly became the family’s preferred babysitter, known for her reliability, warmth, and strong work ethic.

Over time, Muller began helping not just with childcare, but with the brand itself - often stepping in during Northern Classics photo shoots to help watch Ruud’s children, keep things running smoothly on set, and support wherever needed. In those moments, Ruud noticed something unexpected: Jenna wasn’t just helping the kids - she was quietly helping the brand.

“I saw very quickly the kind of qualities you want in someone you work with - she’s dependable, thoughtful, and just genuinely hard-working,” said Ruud. “And beyond that, she has an incredible creative eye. Even when she was just helping on shoot days, she naturally understood the brand and how everything should come together.”

That creative instinct, paired with a strong sense of responsibility and initiative, made her a natural fit for a larger role as Northern Classics continues to grow.

“Working with Kristin and being around the brand, I just loved what it stood for,” said Muller. “I never expected it to turn into this, but I’m so excited to now help shape the marketing and storytelling in a bigger way.”

In her new role, Muller will lead social media and marketing efforts for Northern Classics, focusing on content creation, brand storytelling, and elevating the brand’s visual presence as it expands its reach and retail footprint.

The hire reflects Northern Classics’ unconventional - but deeply personal - approach to building a team: prioritizing trust, alignment, and real-world experience alongside creative talent and professional skill sets.

At its core, Northern Classics continues to grow not just through traditional hiring channels, but through relationships, community, and people who already understand the brand’s values firsthand.

About Northern Classics

Northern Classics is a children’s apparel brand inspired by nostalgic, outdoor childhoods and designed for today’s families. Founded in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the brand creates timeless, high-quality pieces that encourage kids to get outside, explore, and make lasting memories.