Today we’d like to introduce you to Laural Roberson.
Hi Laural , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Granny and Grandpa’s Custom Creations began as a dream shared by a husband-and-wife team working from their home. The business was actually named by our grandchildren, making it a true family venture from the very beginning.
What started with creating personalized memorial chair coverings for families has grown into a full-service custom creation business offering custom t-shirts, distressed flannels, stainless steel tumblers, seasoning salts, memorial products, and much more. As our customer base grew, so did our passion for creating meaningful products that help people celebrate life’s special moments, honor loved ones, support causes they care about, and express their unique personalities.
One thing that has always set us apart is our commitment to giving back to our community. We believe business is about more than selling products—it’s about helping people. When the Burnsville community suffered the tragic loss of a firefighter and police officers, we created and donated memorial chair coverings to honor those heroes. Our hometown of Buffalo also came together in support, and we helped organize fundraising efforts in our store parking lot, grilling hot dogs and bringing people together to support a community that was hurting.
Over the years, we have been honored to work alongside many organizations and groups that make our communities stronger. We have supported and partnered with local 4-H clubs, Buffalo Royalty Ambassadors, the American Legion, VFW Post 8731 in Monticello, local schools, youth sports programs, community fundraisers, veteran organizations, and many other causes throughout the area. Whether it’s creating custom apparel, fundraising products, memorial items, or helping promote community events, we take pride in using our business to help others succeed.
Today, Granny and Grandpa’s Custom Creations is much more than a retail store in downtown Buffalo. We’ve become a gathering place where people stop in not only to shop, but to visit, share stories, and connect with others. We are proud to be known as one of Buffalo’s hidden gems, serving customers both in-store and online. Through every custom order, fundraiser, memorial item, and community event, our goal remains the same—to create meaningful products while making a positive difference in the lives of others.
At the heart of our business is family, community, and the belief that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a lasting impact. What began around a kitchen table has grown into a business that serves customers across the country while staying deeply rooted in the values of small-town Minnesota: hard work, helping neighbors, and giving back whenever possible.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like many small businesses, our journey has not always been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges we continue to face is the economy and the impact it has on small businesses. When families are watching their budgets, custom products and specialty retail purchases are often among the first things people cut back on.
Another significant challenge has been the ongoing construction projects in downtown Buffalo. A few years ago, construction created obstacles for customers trying to access local businesses, and we are experiencing similar challenges again this year. While we understand the importance of infrastructure improvements, it can be difficult when customers struggle to navigate downtown or assume businesses are inaccessible.
Last year, Mother Nature presented another major hurdle when our store experienced water damage. We lost inventory, were forced to close temporarily, and faced the difficult task of rebuilding and replacing products. It was a stressful and costly setback, but we were fortunate to have the support of our community during that time.
Like many independent retailers, we also compete against big-box stores and online giants such as Amazon. Consumers have more shopping options than ever before, and competing on convenience and pricing can be difficult for a small business. Instead of trying to compete solely on price, we focus on what makes us different—personalized service, custom creations, community involvement, and building relationships with our customers.
While there have certainly been challenges along the way, each obstacle has made us stronger. We have learned to adapt, be creative, and continue finding ways to serve our customers and community. The support we receive from Buffalo and the surrounding communities reminds us why we started this business in the first place, and it motivates us to keep moving forward no matter what challenges come our way.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Granny and Grandpa’s Custom Creations is a family-owned custom apparel, gift, and specialty retail business located in downtown Buffalo, Minnesota. We specialize in custom-designed apparel, including t-shirts, hoodies, UV sun shirts, distressed flannels, spirit wear, fundraiser apparel, business apparel, and personalized gifts. We also create stainless steel tumblers, flour sack kitchen towels, memorial chair coverings, garden flags, can coolers, and a variety of unique custom products for individuals, businesses, organizations, schools, and community groups.
Over the years, we have become known for our creativity, quality, and willingness to take on projects of all sizes. Whether it’s a single custom item for a special occasion or apparel for an entire organization, we enjoy helping customers bring their ideas to life. We are also proud to be an Authorized UPS Shipping Provider, Notary Service provider, and Minnesota Lottery Retailer, allowing us to offer additional services that benefit our community.
What we are most proud of is not any one product, but the relationships we have built within our community. We have had the privilege of supporting local schools, 4-H clubs, veterans organizations, the American Legion, VFW Post 8731 in Monticello, youth sports teams, nonprofit groups, fundraisers, and families during both celebrations and difficult times. From creating memorial products that honor loved ones to helping organizations raise funds for important causes, we are honored to be part of so many meaningful moments.
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to people. We don’t view customers as transactions—we view them as neighbors, friends, and members of our extended family. We take pride in providing personal service, listening to our customers’ needs, and creating products that tell a story. While larger retailers may offer convenience, we offer something different: a personal connection, custom creativity, and a genuine investment in our community.
We are often referred to as one of Buffalo’s hidden gems, and we take that as a tremendous compliment. Our goal has always been to create a welcoming place where people can shop, gather, share ideas, and feel valued. At the end of the day, what makes us most proud is knowing that our business has become a place where creativity, community, and kindness come together.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
One of my favorite childhood memories is growing up with my five siblings on Baldwin Lake. Life was simple, and some of the best days were spent outdoors making memories together as a family. During the summer, we spent countless hours fishing, swimming, and exploring around the lake. In the winter, the lake became our playground for ice skating and enjoying the snow.
I also have fond memories of helping my mom in the garden. She taught us the value of hard work, patience, and the importance of family. Whether we were planting, weeding, or harvesting, those moments gave us time together and created memories that have stayed with me throughout my life.
Looking back, it wasn’t the expensive vacations or material things that mattered most—it was the time spent together. Growing up surrounded by siblings, nature, and family traditions taught me the importance of relationships, community, and making memories with the people you love. Those experiences helped shape who I am today and continue to influence both my personal life and the way we run our business and watching my parents run their business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.grannygrandpascustomcreations.com/
- Instagram: grannyandgrandpacustomcreation
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrandpaHandmadecreations
