Our Story
Gary Petersen, Chief Executive Officer
As a dad to three amazing daughters — including a set of twins who keep me on my toes — I’ve lived the chaos, the joy, and the daily juggling act that comes with raising kids. I know how hard it can be to find trustworthy, reliable help that actually feels like an extension of your family.
That’s exactly why I decided to invest in an Oliver’s Nannies business.
This wasn’t just a business move for me — it was personal. I’ve been the parent scrambling to find last-minute care. I’ve been the dad trying to balance work, sports, homework, and bedtime routines. I get it. And I wanted to be part of something that genuinely helps families manage that load.
Oliver’s Nannies stood out because they’re not just about childcare — they’re about building real relationships with families. Their approach is thoughtful, flexible, and built around what parents actually need. It felt like the kind of support I wish I had access to when my girls were younger.
Owning this franchise is my way of giving back to families in my community — offering the kind of care I’d trust with my own kids. Because when your family is in good hands, everything else gets just a little bit easier.
Head of Development: Amy Petersen-Smith
Amy Petersen-Smith leads development for Oliver’s Nannies in Charleston, bringing deep expertise in nurturing quality home-based care. With a BA in Psychology and 25 years in executive roles at human service companies, Amy combines strategic vision with heartfelt compassion.
Growing up in the Midwest, she learned early from her family the importance of respecting and caring for people—a value that has shaped her career since childhood volunteering alongside her grandparents. Relocating to Charleston she opened Senior Helpers of Charleston, Summerville and Myrtle Beach. There, she has spearheaded innovative initiatives to constantly improve upon the care provided to elderly clients.
In her role at Oliver’s Nannies, Amy is focused on building a robust development strategy—encompassing team recruitment, community outreach, and service quality—to support the launch of flexible childcare services in Charleston. Her leadership style, rooted in empathy and precision, ensures families receive both peace of mind and dependable care.
Fun Facts!
Outside work, Amy enjoys running, biking, cooking for friends, cheering on Ohio State football, and beach days and playing with her dogs Brutus and Scarlet
Who is Oliver
Inspired by our founder Kathy’s own ‘man’s best friend,’ who accompanied her throughout many life experiences. Oliver represents loyalty, trust, and connection. Oliver is the best friend that never leaves your side. The one you can count on to be there with a playful smile, a warm hug or to stand with you as you try something new. He always accepts you for who you are and with a wag of a tail lets you know that you are safe and loved.
At Oliver’s Nannies, we believe peace of mind comes from knowing your family is cared for by a reliable team available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We want all of our families to feel Oliver walking with them each day providing security, guidance and an overall sense that a solution is always available to meet your needs.
Oliver’s Nannies started with a mission of providing parents and families with an easy solution to child care. A plan of care that is flexible, immediately available and individualized to fit the needs of each family and family member. The team of leaders at Oliver’s Nannies comes with a background in child care, both in home and center settings, as well as extensive understanding of staffing dependable and flexible care needs specific to each family.
