When you think of charming illustrations that radiate warmth and joy, Mary Engelbreit is a name that likely springs to mind. Born on June 5, 1952, Engelbreit has enchanted the world with her distinctive artistic style, gracing everything from greeting cards to calendars with her whimsical designs. However, there’s much more to her story than just her art. Let’s take a journey through her life, career, and personal experiences to truly understand what makes Mary Engelbreit a beloved figure.
Quick Info Table
| Full Name | Mary Engelbreit |
|---|---|
| Popular As | Artist, Illustrator |
| Occupations | Illustrator, Author, Magazine Editor |
| Age (as of 2024) | 72 years |
| Date of Birth | June 5, 1952 |
| Birthplace | St. Louis, Missouri |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Horoscope | Gemini |
| Height | 5 feet 2 inches |
| Weight | 130 lbs |
| Body Measurements | 34-28-36 inches |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| net worth (2025) | $20 million |
| Spouse | Phil Delano (married 1977) |
| Children | Evan Delano (deceased), Will Delano |
| Company | Mary Engelbreit Co. |
Early Life
Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Mary Engelbreit showed an early interest in drawing and creativity. Her artistic journey began in a rather unusual place—a linen closet in her family’s home. It’s incredible to think that such a small, tucked-away space was the birthplace of a career that would eventually touch millions.
Childhood and Inspirations
From a young age, Mary was fascinated by the world around her. She often found herself lost in books, drawing inspiration from the illustrations that accompanied her favorite stories. Her mother recognized this budding talent and encouraged her to pursue her passion. By second grade, Mary had her first pair of glasses, which opened up a whole new world of artistic possibilities.
Education and Early Career
Mary attended the Academy of the Sacred Heart in St. Louis for high school, where she further honed her artistic skills. After graduation, she took a job at an advertising company called Hot Buttered Graphics. This experience proved invaluable, providing her with a solid foundation in commercial art. However, it wasn’t long before Mary decided to strike out on her own.
Career Highlights
Mary Engelbreit’s career is a tapestry woven with creativity, perseverance, and a dash of serendipity. From founding her own company to launching a successful magazine, her professional journey is nothing short of extraordinary.
Formation of Mary Engelbreit Co.
In 1982, Mary took a leap of faith and founded Mary Engelbreit Co. What started as a small venture soon blossomed into a multi-million dollar enterprise. By 1996, the company was generating annual sales of $86 million, a testament to the widespread appeal of her work.
Greeting Cards and Beyond
Mary’s greeting cards became an instant hit, resonating with people for their heartfelt messages and charming illustrations. She didn’t stop there; her artwork soon found its way onto a variety of products, including calendars, books, and home decor items. One notable addition to her portfolio is the "Engeldark" line of snarky greeting cards, launched in 2016, which offered a humorous twist on her traditional style.
Mary Engelbreit’s Home Companion
In addition to her artistic endeavors, Mary ventured into publishing with her lifestyle magazine, Mary Engelbreit’s Home Companion. The magazine featured everything from home decor tips to personal essays, all infused with Engelbreit’s unique aesthetic. Although it eventually ceased publication, the magazine remains a beloved part of her legacy.
Net Worth
When discussing Mary Engelbreit, it’s impossible to overlook her financial success. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. This impressive figure results from her diverse career, encompassing everything from greeting cards to book publishing.
Financial Milestones
Mary’s financial journey is marked by several key milestones. The formation of Mary Engelbreit Co. in 1982 was pivotal, setting the stage for her future success. By the mid-90s, her company’s annual sales had skyrocketed, cementing her status as a commercial powerhouse.
Recent Financial Updates
While exact figures are often hard to come by, it’s clear that Mary Engelbreit has continued to thrive financially. Her net worth has seen steady growth, thanks in part to her ability to adapt and evolve with the times. Whether launching new product lines or leveraging the power of social media, Mary has proven herself to be both a creative and financial force to be reckoned with.
Personal Life
Now, let’s take a peek into Mary Engelbreit’s personal life. It’s a story filled with love, loss, and resilience, offering a glimpse into the woman behind the art.
Family and Relationships
Mary married Phil Delano in 1977, and the couple has two children: Evan and Will. Tragically, Evan passed away in June 2000, a loss that deeply impacted the family. Despite this heart-wrenching event, Mary has remained a pillar of strength, channeling her emotions into her art.
Age, Height, and Measurements
As of 2024, Mary Engelbreit is 72 years old. She stands at a height of 5 feet 2 inches and weighs approximately 130 lbs. Her body measurements are 34-28-36 inches, embodying a petite yet vibrant presence. With her blue eyes and blonde hair, Mary exudes a timeless charm that complements her artistic persona.
Enduring Partnership
Given her long-standing marriage to Phil Delano, questions about Mary Engelbreit’s dating life are largely moot. However, her relationship with Phil is a testament to enduring love and partnership. The couple has weathered many storms together, emerging stronger and more united with each passing year.
Advocacy and Social Causes
Mary Engelbreit is not just an artist; she’s an advocate for social justice. In recent years, she has used her platform to support causes like Black Lives Matter, demonstrating that her commitment to making the world a better place extends beyond her art.
Support for Black Lives Matter
In 2019, Mary made headlines for her vocal support of the Black Lives Matter movement. She created illustrations that highlighted the importance of equality and justice, using her art to amplify the voices of those fighting for change. This advocacy work showcases another dimension of Mary’s character, one that is deeply committed to social progress.
Community Engagement
Mary’s commitment to her community is evident in her various philanthropic efforts. Whether supporting local arts initiatives or contributing to charitable causes, she has consistently used her success to give back. Her involvement in these activities underscores her belief in the power of art to bring about positive change.
Fun Facts and Trivia
To wrap things up, let’s delve into some fun facts and trivia about Mary Engelbreit. These tidbits offer a lighter, more whimsical look at the life of this beloved illustrator.
- Early Start: Mary began her artistic journey in a linen closet, transforming it into her first studio.
- First Job: Her first job was at an advertising company called Hot Buttered Graphics.
- Magazine Editor: Mary edited her own lifestyle magazine, Mary Engelbreit’s Home Companion.
- Children’s Books: She has authored several bestselling children’s books, including The Night Before Christmas and Mary Engelbreit’s Mother Goose.
- Theater Sets: Mary designed sets for the St. Louis Muny’s production of Matilda in 2019.
- Engeldark: In 2016, she launched Engeldark, a line of snarky greeting cards that offered a humorous twist on her traditional style.
Final Thoughts
Mary Engelbreit’s journey is one of creativity, resilience, and unwavering passion. From her early days in St. Louis to her status as a beloved illustrator, she has touched countless lives with her art. As she continues to inspire and advocate for social causes, her legacy only grows richer.
So, what do you think? Has Mary Engelbreit’s story inspired you to pursue your own creative passions? Whether you’re an aspiring artist or simply a fan of her work, there’s no denying the impact she’s had on the world. Feel free to share your thoughts, and let’s keep the conversation going! 🌟
