From the Fairways to the Factory Floor — The Journey of Our Founder, Rick Wygle. In 1984, Rick Wygle packed his bags and moved to Birmingham, Alabama, ready to take on a new opportunity in the golf industry. As a traveling sales representative, Rick spent his days visiting golf course pro shops and specialty golf retailers across the region. He represented premium apparel lines—polo knits, outerwear, and headwear—each piece customized with beautifully embroidered club logos.
For years, Rick lived life on the road, building relationships, learning the apparel business from the inside out, and developing a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship behind quality embroidery. But as time passed and his family grew, the constant travel began to pull him away from the people who mattered most. Rick knew it was time for a change—one that would allow him to stay rooted in Birmingham while still doing work he loved.
That turning point came in 1993, when Rick founded Embroidery General. What began as a small, homegrown operation quickly became a trusted local source for custom embroidery and screen printing. Rick brought with him the same values that shaped his years in the golf world: attention to detail, dependable service, and genuine relationships with customers.
Today, the company stands as a testament to Rick’s vision—combining craftsmanship with care, and serving businesses, teams, and organizations throughout the region. What started with embroidered golf shirts has grown into a trusted local partner for custom apparel of all kinds.
And it all began with one salesman, one suitcase, and a desire to build something lasting right here at home.
As Embroidery General enters its next chapter, the same values that have guided the company since 1993 remain firmly in place under new ownership. Michael Hess and Scott McKelvey are committed to honoring the foundation Rick built—maintaining the same standards of craftsmanship, integrity, and customer-first service that have defined Embroidery General for more than three decades. Their leadership ensures the company’s legacy continues, while positioning it for thoughtful growth in the years ahead.
