Gretchen grew up in Sacramento, California, in a home shaped by the wisdom of a writer and a psychiatrist. Her parents were a constant source of love and support, especially during a challenging time in her life when she struggled with mental health issues as a young adult. In the midst of her battles with OCD, panic attacks, and depression, her parents shared the words of Jesus from Matthew 11:28-30. These verses touched her deeply, marking the beginning of her faith journey. Gretchen went from feeling trapped in mental and emotional bondage to finding peace, joy, and new dreams. The promise of Philippians 1:6, that God would complete the work He began in her, became a foundation for her life.
After graduating with a degree in Journalism, Gretchen began a career in media. She worked at NBC as a page, served as a production assistant on Days of Our Lives, wrote news for an ABC affiliate, produced a talk radio show, and performed in theater, commercials, and television. During this time, she met her Christian husband, Randy, and together they built a loving family with three children. While Gretchen embraced her role as a wife and mother, her passion for music remained. She grew up in a musical home where her mother played piano, and they often sang show tunes and other standards together. One day, as her children got older, she found herself drawn back to music, singing along to tracks and playing the piano.
It was Randy who encouraged her to use her musical gifts for the Lord. Gretchen had always felt a desire to sing for God's glory but wasn't sure where to begin. After praying together, they attended church the following week, where auditions for the church ensemble were announced. Although nervous, Gretchen stepped out in faith and auditioned. To her surprise, she was chosen to sing with the ensemble, which later led to her becoming a worship leader--a role she cherished.
Not long after, Gretchen felt called to write music from the heart of her Christian faith. Over the past decade, she has poured her heart into songwriting, and she is now preparing to release her fifth Christian studio album. Her journey has taken her from glamorous TV events to sharing her testimony in Folsom Women's Prison, and through it all, she has discovered that no matter the setting, people are eager to hear about the hope found in Jesus. Writing and sharing her music remains one of Gretchen's greatest joys, as she continues to testify to the transformative power of God's love.