In the heart of North Muskegon, nestled just down the hill from the well-known Bernio’s Pizza, lies The Bird House, a unique small business that has become a beloved community staple over the past 20 years. Founded by Rob and Cathy Morin, The Bird House started as a humble idea in their backyard and has since grown into a thriving business that caters to bird enthusiasts, pet owners, and nature lovers alike.
A Journey Rooted in Passion
The origins of The Bird House are as charming as the store itself. About 20 years ago, Rob Morin found himself furloughed from his job with the railroad, facing the prospect of relocating to Alabama. But rather than moving, Rob and Cathy decided to turn a shared hobby into a full-time occupation. “I was in the backyard watering the plants and feeding the birds and the squirrels, and I was thinking, I wonder if you can make a hobby your occupation,” Rob recalls.
After researching bird franchises and visiting various bird stores across Michigan, the Morins put together a business plan. They launched The Bird House with a simple yet focused inventory: bird seed, houses, baths, and related gift items. However, as with any small business, the journey was not without its challenges.
Evolving to Meet the Community’s Needs
As the business grew, so did its product offerings. What began with bird-related products soon expanded into pet supplies, starting with a simple pallet of kitty litter. “We had two cats, and I thought, we should sell this,” Cathy remembers. Despite initial reservations from Rob, the kitty litter became their number one item, leading them to expand into cat food, dog food, and pet toys.
Today, The Bird House is known for its high-quality products, including four- and five-star rated dog food brands like Victor and Taste of the Wild. The store has also become a go-to destination for bird feeders, statuary, wind chimes, and a variety of other unique items that draw customers from as far as 60 miles away.
A Personalized Shopping Experience
What sets The Bird House apart from other stores is its commitment to customer service. Unlike big-box stores, where customers are left to navigate aisles on their own, The Bird House offers a personalized shopping experience. “We take people and actually show them products,” Cathy explains. “Sometimes, if I think they’re looking a little confused, I say, go home, look at your yard, and then come back and let’s talk again.”
This level of care and attention extends to product selection as well. Cathy and Rob attend expos to stay up-to-date on the latest market trends, carefully choosing items that meet their high standards for quality and durability. They also offer specialized services like bird feeder repairs, something that larger retailers do not provide.
Challenges and Triumphs
Running a small business for two decades is no small feat, and The Bird House has certainly faced its share of challenges. From struggling in the early years to dealing with road closures during peak seasons, the Morins have persevered through it all. “The first four or five years, it just sucked the juice right out of us,” Rob admits. But their hard work and dedication paid off, and today, The Bird House is a thriving business that continues to grow.
One of the most rewarding aspects of running The Bird House, Cathy says, is the ability to work for herself. “I worked for a board of directors for years. So you have like 20 or 30 different bosses. And then I’m the boss, and Rob works for me,” she jokes.
Looking Ahead
As The Bird House looks to the future, the Morins have no plans for major expansions but are excited about new products and opportunities to serve their community. With Rob now retired, the couple is focused on maintaining the high standards that have made their business a success while enjoying the fruits of their labor.
For those who haven’t yet visited The Bird House, Cathy and Rob invite you to stop in and explore their store. Whether you’re a bird lover, a pet owner, or simply someone looking for a unique gift, The Bird House offers something for everyone. And with a 20-year legacy of passion and community, it’s clear that The Bird House is more than just a store—it’s a labor of love.
Find The Bird House on Facebook or their website. If you enjoyed this article check out our article on Rescued 2.0 another local business making a difference in their community.
