Celebrating 10 Years: An Anniversary Letter from Rick and Melissa
10 years ago today, Grace and Lace didn't exist. I was extremely busy with my landscape company as it was Christmas light season, and Melissa had created the about to be famous boot sock that was getting attention. She was 2 days away from putting it online just to see if it would sell. We had no idea what was about to happen.
Melissa listed the pair of boot socks and sold them instantly. "Wow that was kinda cool..." A business was born but we had no idea. Melissa didn't know to turn the listing off. If she did Grace and Lace may not be around, but she didn't and 2 days later when she checked we had over 400 purchase requests.
Shipping out original Grace and Lace orders from the Hinnants' front porch
Holy smokes! I proposed to Melissa: should we tell the people, "Sorry the pair already sold" and refund their money, or try to figure it out? Melissa wanted to go for it! And Grace and Lace was born.
Opening the first Angel House orphanages in India, 2014
Making a floral map of the nations for the G&L office, 2016
Live chatting with customers, 2017
Little did we know, but God did. This was His idea, this is His business and we're simply holding on for the ride. We'll continue to do our best and bring good to the world for as long as He allows Grace and Lace to operate. Thanks be to God! Thank you to all the wonderful people who've helped in this journey and thank you to all who support us. All of God's best for us all!
Rick & Melissa Hinnant
Melissa, Rick, and the Grace and Lace Leadership Team
Melissa creating and sewing, before Grace and Lace was even a thought
Melissa listed the pair of boot socks and sold them instantly. "Wow that was kinda cool..." A business was born but we had no idea. Melissa didn't know to turn the listing off. If she did Grace and Lace may not be around, but she didn't and 2 days later when she checked we had over 400 purchase requests.
Shipping out original Grace and Lace orders from the Hinnants' front porch
Holy smokes! I proposed to Melissa: should we tell the people, "Sorry the pair already sold" and refund their money, or try to figure it out? Melissa wanted to go for it! And Grace and Lace was born.
Melissa multi-tasking, prepping leg warmers for sale, 2012
Rick and Melissa giving their pitch on Shark Tank, 2013
Shark Tank was around the corner which also meant a deal with Barbara Corcoran. Sales skyrocketed. Employees were hired overnight. It's been such a wild ride with ups, downs, tears, orphanages, helping trafficked victims, tons of hard work, many deep breaths, many laughs, building with an incredible group of people - including you, our customers - and everything in between.
Opening the first Angel House orphanages in India, 2014Making a floral map of the nations for the G&L office, 2016
Live chatting with customers, 2017
With grace,
Rick & Melissa Hinnant
Melissa, Rick, and the Grace and Lace Leadership Team
10 comments
My daughter introduced me to your company and feel in love instantly with your clothing. Your clothes are so stylish for all ages! I am 63 😎 you have spoiled me with quality and softness of your clothes. I love your story and that you give to your community and the love of our savior. May you continue to be blessed. ❤️🙏❤️
I am soooooo thrilled to read this. Congratulations! My husband and I were watching Shark Tank last night talking about y’all wondering how many years it had been since you were on there. I love my boot socks and I love my items I’ve purchased at the Christmas Bizarre at Palmer Auditorium. I love y’all’s story sooooo much! Praying for your continued success!
I first saw G&L on shark tank and loved the shirt Melissa wore that night. I have been a customer ever since. I so appreciate your faithfulness to God and your openness with sharing your story. What a blessing you have been to so many people. I’m in awe of how God has worked through this company over the years and how it truly has become a sisterhood for thousands of women. May the Lord continue to bless you and keep you close to Him!
Such a fabulous company! Love the clothes and the mission! I’m happy to support!
Thank you for glorifying the Lord in your wonderful business!