Our Story

Dr. Alan Munson "Docca" is a retired physician from McFarland Clinic and Emily Munson was a Speech Pathologist. Outside of their regular jobs they found much joy and happiness in running such a special store so near and dear to their hearts. In his free time, Alan can be found gardening and caring for the rare plants located in his greenhouse. Besides being a shopkeeper and a speech pathologist, Emily loved swimming, playing piano, hosting parties, participating in church, and most importantly being an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother. Together they created a store founded on values of family, imagination, and unity.

Emily and Docca's daughter, Susan Owen, now keeps up the shop, and continues her parents' legacy of creating a magical place for all. Susan is a former educator who taught Kindergarten as well as classes at both the University of Kansas and the University of Iowa. Susan excels at making the perfect suggestions. Susan stays busy as she divides her time between managing the store and HAMO Foundation. She is a fabulous storyteller and listener!

Our Fantastic Team

Meet the Pumpkin Patch family!

Jill

Jill is a veteran employee at The Pumpkin Patch. She was a kindergarten teacher for many years here in Ames. In her free time, Jill enjoys cooking and crafting. Jill loves to read as well and is very knowledgable when it comes to children's books. Jill is a delight and is great at giving suggestions for the perfect gifts!

Mavis

Mavis taught second grade for many years at the Ames Schools. She enjoys running, biking, reading, and traveling. The best activity of course would be spending time with her family and especially her grandchildren. Mavis thinks The Pumpkin Patch is such a fun place to be because of the wonderful community! Mavis is fantastic at giving gift recommendations!

Virginia

Virginia has been happily married to her high school sweetheart, Lindsey, for 40 years. A proud mother of four and grandmother of five, she is a retired teacher who finds joy in spending time with her grandkids, and creating the spectacular window displays. She cherishes the friendships of her coworkers. One of Virginia's favorite things about Pumpkin Patch is helping customers find the perfect gift!

Maria

Maria has a background in library services, specializing in children’s programming and literature. She has a passion for reading, baking, and spending time at the beach. An avid collector of Steiff and Jellycat plush, Maria brings extensive knowledge about the stuffed animals in our store. Her favorite part of the Pumpkin Patch is witnessing the joy and excitement it brings to others.

Bayley

Bayley is a high school student, and the store's expert for all things Jellycat and digital creation. In her free time, you can find Bayley reading, adding to her excessive Jellycat collection, crafting, or doing Tae Kwon Do. She feels honored to have her dreams come true and work at this magical place. Bayley loves the Pumpkin Patch family!

Barb

Barb is a retired speech-language pathologist with a passion for children’s books and a love for the unique selection of toys and clothing at the store. She finds joy in connecting with customers at the Pumpkin Patch, helping them discover the perfect gifts for their loved ones!