Meet the VentureMom Behind SunGrubbies: Marta Phillips’ Mission to Protect with Style

SunGrubbies was founded in 1997 by Marta Phillips, a San Diego native and lifelong beach lover who was tired of choosing between sun safety and style. As an avid beach volleyball player, Marta knew firsthand how hot, thick, and frankly unattractive traditional sun protection gear could be. Back then, broad-spectrum sunscreen was still new, and UV-protective clothing was barely on the radar. So, she decided to create something better.

What started as a mission to keep kids safe in the sun (hence the name—”Sun” for protection, and “Grubbies” for comfy play clothes) quickly evolved. As demand grew, so did the product line—and today, SunGrubbies offers stylish, sun-smart solutions for the whole family.

Marta’s motivation came from a deeply personal place. Both of her parents had been diagnosed with malignant melanoma, and while they recovered, the experience left a lasting impact. Add to that her own history of sun damage from years spent playing in the Southern California surf, and she knew it was time for a change. She often jokes (with just a hint of truth) that premature aging was also a big motivator.

From its early days to now, SunGrubbies has stayed true to its original mission: making high-quality, stylish sun protection that actually feels good to wear. Whether it’s wide-brim hats, breathable cover-ups, or travel-ready UV accessories, every product is designed with comfort, protection, and confidence in mind.

Behind the brand is a close-knit crew of nine—eight amazing women and one guy who more than holds his own. The team is known not just for what they make, but how they treat people. One of their favorite stories? An elderly customer who called after losing his wife. He remembered the kind voice on the other end of the phone from a previous order and said it made all the difference. “ We believe kindness is part of the fabric.”

Today, SunGrubbies continues to blend function with fashion, helping people of all ages enjoy the great outdoors—without sacrificing their skin or their style.

VentureMom Tip

Let a personal need guide your business idea.