Seven years ago teacher, Jenn Gildenpfenning, created an activity to help her special needs students. After seeing its positive impact, she transformed the hobby into an official business in 2017 and it has been growing ever since. Now, Simply Silverware is opening a brand new space at the Red Barn in St. Clair.
The business concept is simple – employees assemble plastic silverware sets for events including weddings, showers, graduation parties, and other events. They also recently started putting together party favors for clients who provide the supplies.
As for the inspiration behind the business, Gildenpfenning says she wanted to help adults with special needs learn skills and build confidence so that they can later go out and help the community. She currently has four employees, two who are Autistic and two with Down Syndrome. When asked about her staff, she shares that they bring a lot of enthusiasm to their jobs.
Simply Silverware has moved into the new location at 2062 Fred Moore Highway in the red barn in St. Clair.