Nov 2010 // Edward Hooben
Wayne Gretzky spent his career earning his nickname as The Great One. But when his playing days ended, he didn't just want to spend his retirement swinging in a rocking chair and reminiscing about the good old days. Instead, he started WDG Enterprises, a company that handles many of his various businesses.
First, there's WG Authentic, a company that sells and handles sports memorabilia for a number of different celebrity clients, including the Phoenix Suns' Steve Nash and boxer Muhammad Ali. Gretzky also authenticates his own jerseys, something accomplished by identifying special marks that, in an amazing display of foresight, he put on the uniforms while he was still playing.
Next, there's No. 99 Estate Wines, which has vineyards north of Niagara Falls in Canada. Not only have his varietals won awards, but a portion of the profits go to the Wayne Gretzky Foundation, an organization that provides funds to needy children to give them hockey equipment. Frankly, between the wine, the memorabilia, and his restaurant in Toronto, he's been pretty busy. And all of it is centered on his office at WDG Enterprises.
While not everyone has the money or stature to create a workspace like Gretzky's, sometimes it's inspiring just to see what can be done with the right amount of time and money. We took a tour of his office, and between the authentic apparel, the amazing amount of collectibles, and the rich and masculine décor, it's one heck of a space. Check out what The Great One's home base looks like, and maybe you'll get an idea or two yourself.