Q+A with Gracemade
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Gracemade was founded in 2016 in Jasmine Rennie’s home in Rancho Cucamonga. The first time she sold at our markets was during the 2017 Holiday Market. Drawing from her faith and European culture, she started the business to create beautiful, modest clothing for women.
What inspired you to start your company/brand?
The inspiration behind Gracemade came out of my personal testimony. A few years ago I struggled with my identity and worth. I sought attention and validation from men and thought if I dressed revealingly, I would get the love I so desperately longed for, but I soon realized that I was trying to fill an empty void with things that could not sustain me. After having an encounter with Jesus, I discovered that my identity, acceptance, and worth were rooted in Him, and I no longer had to give myself away or dress provocatively to feel loved.
This life-changing experience inspired me to start Gracemade. I wanted to create a company that would be driven by my faith and provided forward modest options for women. It was also really important that I incorporated an ethical business model, which is something that is also derived from my faith that teaches to be good stewards of the earth, and to love people. We do this by producing locally, paying fair wages, incorporating sustainable fabrics, and giving back a portion of every sale to charity.
What did you do before starting your business?
Before I started Gracemade I worked for another clothing company called Joyrich as their U.S. and International wholesale sales manager. My job was to get the brand into retail stores across the world. Prior to that, I worked for a few Los Angeles based brands doing fashion design, so I was very fortunate to learn both the business and creative side of the industry before launching my company.
What do you wish you knew when you were first starting your company?
I wish I knew it was okay not to know everything. When I first started my company, I was so afraid to look like I didn’t know what I was doing so I avoided asking for help which cost me a lot of money, and a lot of mistakes that didn’t need to happen. You’d be surprised how gracious and helpful people are if you just admit that you don’t have all the answers.
Where do you see your company in 5 years?
In 5 years I see Gracemade expanding into more retail stores, and being sold internationally. I see us hiring a wonderful group of individuals in-house that believe in the company vision. I see us dominating the press, and being one of the most talked about brands.
Location/When you founded your company: The company was officially founded in 2016 at home in Rancho Cucamonga
Your biggest inspiration? Besides my faith, definitely European culture.
Favorite “Get Sh*t done” Song: Anything from “Chillwave Radio” on Pandora – such a good vibe, and helps me focus.
Dream Brand Collab? Anything with Solange Knowles!