Rhondi Ewing

1985 Iowa State University graduate Rhondi Ewing, designed for Small World Greetings until advancing to Product Manager at Papel/Russ Berrie in 1997, managing Seasons, NFL, NBA, MLB, and Stationery/Gift. Rhondi joined Applause in 1991, managing toy design for major licenses, Wildlife, and Halloween. A key asset to the company, she revitalized the Sesame Street line and broadened the scope of Looney Tunes by winning plush manufacturing rights in 1993, driving a 300% sales increase. Advancing to Senior Director, Rhond's strategies achieved sales and profitability goals for her $50MM division, by ensuring that all product met cost, schedule, safety, contractual, and distribution criteria. In September 1999, Rhondi established the specialty plush company Cutee Corporation with Korean partners, receiving high marks in several gift and toy magazines including “Hot Toy of the Week” in Playthings.com. In 2001, she launched Rhondi Ewing Gift Designs, LLC, a consultancy specializing in product design, development, and marketing. Clients have included Jast Company, Reeves International/Breyer, Big Sky Carvers, The Knot, Joelson Industries, The Small Potatoz, Teetot International, and many more.