About Groupies
Interview with the founders Tom and Justus
It all began in 2002. Justus’ father turned 50, and for the occasion, Justus and his siblings wanted to give him something truly special: a personal film featuring the voices of all the people who love him.
Back in 2002, there were no smartphones. So Justus and his siblings traveled to meet all the people who had been part of their father’s life up to that point and recorded them. They asked about their first memories of him, stories from his youth, and what made him who he is.
It was the first time their father cried in front of everyone when he watched the film.
From that moment on, Justus and Max became responsible for all gifts of this kind—and they still are today. You could say they’ve become experts in it.
In 2021, Justus’ parents celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary—ruby anniversary. And once again, their sister kept insisting that they should give their parents something “truly special.” Worried about long nights spent editing and thinking there had to be an easier way, the two came up with the idea for Groupies.
And then Tom entered the picture. Tom used to be Justus’ boss at an agency in Cologne. One of Tom’s best qualities is his enthusiasm. That’s why Justus asked him if he could imagine bringing the idea to life together. Tom was immediately on board.
Justus’ brother helped out in the beginning but then focused on shooting his first feature film.
Groupies was ultimately developed and built between baby cribs and changing tables—because Justus’ and Tom’s daughters were born around the same time as the idea for Groupies.
We are Justus and Tom.
We know the power of video gifts and how special it is to receive one. But we also know how much work goes into creating them.
With Groupies, we want to help and encourage you to create a truly unique gift for your loved ones. From coming up with ideas, inviting contributors, and collecting messages to editing and finalizing the video—we support you every step of the way.
Because we believe more people should tell each other what they truly mean to one another.