The majority of fashion companies today are only concerned with their own benefit, and those who engage in any sort of good outside the company are rare. Grace and Lace, however, is a clothing company that is having a great impact beyond their own success.
Grace and Lace founder Melissa Hinnant began what would later become a thriving business shortly after experiencing a painful tragedy. Melissa and her husband lost their baby girl due to unexpected complications during her pregnancy. She was heartbroken and did not understand why God allowed her to experience this pain, but chose to trust that He would use their situation for something good. Melissa loves to sew and found it to be a therapeutic way to heal in the weeks following the loss of her daughter. One of the pieces the made was a cute, lacy sock meant to stick out the top of her boots. She was not intending to sell them but people loved them so much that, before long, she had a long list of orders. Soon Melissa’s therapeutic hobby turned into a business that grew so quickly it gained the attention of Shark Tank. Shark Tank investors only contributed to Grace and Lace’s success and, to this day, their company continues to grow and expand, offering a wide variety of trendy clothing beyond socks!
What really stands out about this company is that they strive to have a redemptive impact that goes beyond creating and selling quality clothing. Grace and Lace partners with organizations in India and donates a portion of their proceeds to building orphanages, churches and schools. These institutions are much needed in the communities they serve, providing the Gospel message, safe homes, and opportunities for children to be educated and learn a valuable trade. The Hinnants definitely have a heart for God and His children, which is evident through the impact of Grace and Lace. A business that began after the death of a child has grown to give more abundant life to many others.
Check out more of Grace and Lace’s story and their products at: https://www.graceandlace.com/
I love to see when people’s hobbies just work out well and turn into businesses. It’s an excellent demonstration of the principle that it doesn’t matter what you’re selling, as long as someone, somewhere, people need it. I’m not in the market for lacy socks, but someone is!