Meet Eileen Haniuk | Founder of Gav & Griff E. Bear Co.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Eileen Haniuk and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eileen, what inspires you?
A huge source of my inspiration is to create art that makes people happy, brightens their day, and brings a smile to their face. I’ve always leaned towards creating cute animal characters because that’s what makes me smile. With everything going on in the world I think we can all benefit from art that is up lifting. I’ve always tended to be a happy go lucky type of person so why not share some of that happiness through my art and products I sell. Of course, my sons and family are are a huge part of my inspiration too. When my sons were born, I really wanted to create décor that all of us could enjoy. Furthermore, I am 3rd generation Mexican American and to start my own business along with my husband is amazing. This is something that my grandparents could have never dreamed of. I am so proud of Gav & Griff E. Bear Co. not only because it is named after my sons but the legacy behind it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I graduated from California State University of Fullerton with a BFA in Animation and Entertainment Art. Shortly, after I started working for a major animation studio. I’ve worked in Animation Production my entire career. I have also freelanced as a color stylist/background painter on a couple shows. Sometimes your career path isn’t a straight road there are bumps, curves, and even rockslides along the way. There are also people that will tell you no or that you can’t do something. However, perseverance is one of the keys to success and with each setback or failure you learn. I created Gav & Griff E. Bear Co. because after 14 years in the animation industry I felt it was time to bring my own vision to life. I want to bring adorable home decor to children and adults that I would like. My company just launched our first product a Sloth Storage Cube. I have completed more designs with my husband’s help (he is also an artist) and I am hoping to launch more products shortly. It’s been somewhat of a whirlwind trying to juggle everything. It felt like a HUGE accomplishment when the Sloth Storage Cubes arrived at the warehouse after almost a years worth of work. There are so many things that can go wrong when you are trying to have your products made. If I had to sum up what my brand is about it is about providing quality home decor/home storage solutions that are adorable and appeal to both kids and adults. My brand represents me and bringing to the market innovative designs that make people smile.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If a friend were visiting the area I would take them for a beautiful hike at Millard Falls in the Angeles National Forest. It is truly a hidden gem with a small waterfall at the end of the trail. The forest also provides shade the entire way. Next we would go to brunch at Brookside Golf Club Restaurant at the Rose Bowl. You can sit on the patio and enjoy the view of the hills nearby. Can’t forget to hit up the LA Zoo and grab a churro where you can admire the gorilla’s nearby. Dinner be at the Henry’s Parsons Project where the chef cooks the tastiest cajun cuisine.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give recognition to my sister Loreen Riley who is a principal at the Alliance Dr. Olga Mohan High School in downtown LA. She is an incredible human being and advocate for her school. Her life’s work in education deserves all the accolades in this world. On top of being a principle she is a small business owner. She has guided me throughout this journey. Without her mentorship and encouragement, I would not have been able to launch my own business. She continues to help better the lives of her staff, students, family, and community. Thank you, sister! You’re an unsung hero and I love you.

Website: https://gavandgriffebearco.com

Instagram: @gavandgriffebearco

Image Credits
Christy Kendall Photography for all shots of myself and family Jason Haniuk for all shots of product photography