Published: Friday, Jul. 03, 2009
Biz Buzz: Grover Beach flag makers celebrate 25 years of patriotism
A mail-order startup for the 1984 Olympics now operates five flag-related Web sites
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closeAmerican Flag and Gift of Grover Beach recently celebrated its 25th anniversary.
John and Bridgett Solley opened what began as a mail-order flag business in Redondo Beach in 1984 in preparation for the summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
The Solleys moved to the Central Coast in 1989 and continued to operate a mail-order business until 2002, when demand for flags after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks enabled them to open a retail location in Arroyo Grande for a time.
The couple now employs three full-time employees and operates five flag-related Web sites and a retail outlet with a workroom for custom flag-making at 1101 Highland Way in Grover Beach.
The Solleys represent seven to 10 major domestic flag manufacturers.
With recent political “tea parties,” the Solleys have seen a spike in demand for Revolution-era flags.
However, business is consistently strong from Memorial Day to Labor Day or “flag season.”
Regarding the longevity of their operation, Bridgett Solley said, “It’s amazing. Anybody in business now is just thankful to still be in business. … We love what we do. … Flags are always used for some form of celebration. We like to be a part of that.”
— Julia Hickey
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