The Lolly Rose Story

THE STORY BEHIND THE STORY:: STARTING SMALL BUT DREAMING BIG! 

The Lolly Rose Story: 

Heather’s journey to founding Lolly began with the creation of her first book, Angel Grandma (newest edition can be found here:https://www.amazon.com/Angel-Grandma-Heartfelt-Childrens-Everlasting/dp/1959644114/) 

As part of her vision for the book, Heather planned a Kickstarter campaign to pair Angel Grandma and Angel Grandpa with beautifully designed angel dolls she had created. While Heather ultimately signed with a small publisher (PDIC) and the Kickstarter never launched,* she discovered something remarkable: the angel dolls were in high demand.

Heather began receiving heartfelt messages from people of all walks of life. Children grappling with grief, adults supporting loved ones undergoing chemotherapy, and others navigating loss shared how the angel dolls brought comfort and solace. Inspired by their stories and requests to expand the line, Heather’s idea for an “intentional doll” began to take shape—a doll that would symbolize prayers, comfort, and hope for those in need.

But where does the name "Lolly Rose" come from? The story begins with Heather’s beloved childhood doll, “Lolly.”  Lolly was a cherished rag doll with a pink-and-white checkered gingham pattern and a little disc bead inside her, a true treasure of Heather’s youth. 

Heather’s baby picture with “Lolly”

Years later, when Heather’s mother became gravely ill, Heather flew to Florida to be by her side. Leaving her young children with her husband, Heather brought Lolly along to comfort her during the emotional visit. Torn between staying with her mother and returning to her children, Heather decided to leave Lolly with her mother as a way to ensure a part of her would always be there.

Tragically, Heather’s mother passed away a few days later. In the aftermath, Lolly went missing amidst the commotion. Heather eventually recovered Lolly and brought her back to her home, where she now holds a special place in her daughter’s life. Heather finds comfort in the thought that her mother watches over her daughter, and Lolly has become a symbol of love, connection, and comfort—values at the heart of the company Heather created.

The "Rose" in Lolly Rose carries deep significance as well. For Heather’s partner, Leigha, roses are a powerful spiritual symbol—representing new beginnings, treasures, and guidance. Whenever Leigha sought answers in her life, roses would mysteriously appear, offering comfort and clarity. Heather, inspired by Leigha’s creativity and spiritual connection to roses, chose the name Lolly Rose partly as a playful way to draw Leigha into the project. What began as a lighthearted gesture became something far more meaningful: Leigha’s vision and creativity have been instrumental in shaping Lolly Rose into what it is today. The company simply wouldn’t be the same without her. In this way, the name "Lolly Rose" beautifully reflects the partnership, love, and shared mission that drive the company forward.

Lolly is more than a company; it’s a mission to bring comfort and hope to those who need it most. Inspired by a beloved childhood treasure and fueled by the desire to help others, Heather’s journey with Lolly Rose is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the enduring bond between generations.

*Since starting their author journey, Heather & Leigha combined ran 3 Kickstarters which helped bring these beautiful books to life: Imagine A World (a collective art gallery compilation from 23 artists), The Animal World (fun collective nouns for animals with 21 artists), and Love Lottery — Leigha's debut book.