It’s a beautiful thing when birds choose your yard. Blue jays, mourning doves, cardinals—no matter the species, their presence signals that they find your space welcoming. It’s a place where they feel safe enough to thrive. The same can be said for people: to truly flourish, we need a cozy, supportive community. Fortunately, there’s a place in Grand Blanc that fosters that sense of belonging—for both birds and people. It’s a charming little shop called JJ Cardinal’s Wild Bird & Nature Store.
JJ Cardinal’s owner, Gretchen Giles, accepts a heartfelt gift from community members.
Founded in 1991 by Louise Dawson, JJ Cardinal’s has always been about more than just birdseed. It’s a place where people reconnect with nature and each other. Here, you’ll find top-quality wildlife supplies, unique gifts, and a wealth of knowledge. From handcrafted art and jewelry by North American artisans to kid-friendly puppets and bug kits, the shop offers something memorable for every age.
When Louise decided to retire in 2017, longtime customer Gretchen Giles saw the store’s value and stepped in to keep its mission alive. She and her husband, Ken, became the new owners—and to this day, Gretchen and her dedicated staff continue to build community, offering educational presentations for schools, clubs, and other local groups.
Much of JJ Cardinal’s magic lies in its personalized service. The staff doesn’t just sell you a bag of seed—they ask about your yard, your birdwatching goals, and what species are native to your area. They’re honest, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic, whether explaining the best food for cardinals or why blue jays may remain elusive no matter how much you try to attract them.
But, it’s the relationships that truly make the place special. Customers often become friends. During a recent interview, a longtime patron stopped in just to ask how Gretchen and Ken were doing. Afterward, Gretchen smiled and said, “There are lots and lots of wonderful human beings, and I think we have a tendency to miss them because we don’t talk to them.” That openness—her desire to truly connect—is what makes the store feel like home. “I’m really very lucky,” she added. “I would miss being here if I didn’t get to see my people.”
The sense of community is mutual. Many customers have helped Gretchen grow her knowledge about birds, sharing tips and stories from their own experiences. They also help shape the store itself, suggesting new products and event ideas that keep things fresh and engaging.
There’s much more to say about JJ Cardinal’s, but the best way to understand its value is to experience it for yourself. Watch for in-store classes and events by visiting jjcardinal.com.
As Gretchen puts it, “We [as human beings]require interaction. This store allows for that to happen.” At JJ Cardinal’s, you’ll find a community that welcomes you—just like your yard welcomes the birds.
Visit JJ Cardinal’s at 12830 S. Saginaw St., Suite A in Grand Blanc. For more info, call 810.695.8733, visit jjcardinal.com, or find them on Facebook.
