Jacqueline Moss, Artsci’84, knows inspiration can strike at any time. A senior business leader with more than two decades of experience in the corporate world, Moss founded Giftgowns in 2016. A medical clothing company, Giftgowns produces fun and stylish medical gowns for patients. Moss, who also serves as the company’s Chief Executive Officer, created the company after her own experience as a patient.
Moss remembers thinking, “wouldn't it be so great if there was something that visitors could bring as a present that would also be helpful?”
Giftgowns was born out of a desire to provide fun but practical gift options that would also boost patients’ spirits and enhance their comfort during medical treatments and hospital stays. And that’s the feedback she’s receiving from customers, which is gratifying for Moss.
With Giftgowns, Moss found a previously untapped market, and soon demand led to the launch of a maternity line and children’s line through a relationship with Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto. The company has continued to adapt and evolve, adding customization options and face coverings during the pandemic. All that growth has not gone unnoticed. Giftgowns has been featured in numerous publications and channels, including GQ, People, CTV, The Oprah Magazine, and Forbes.
Moss notes that media acclaim is rewarding because it confirms there is a place for her concept in the market, and that developing an idea to fruition is its own reward.
Regardless of her success, Moss is inspired to grow Giftgowns and spur innovation. She believes there is room for the company to evolve and improve the experience of the millions of patients who visit hospitals each day. While growth for Giftgowns is a priority, she is also developing an antibacterial spray made from essential oils that she hopes to launch soon.
While the move from the corporate board room to entrepreneurship is not linear, it is an adventure Moss relishes.
“You never know what's going to come out of the journey and that's what I like about it,” she says.
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