Meet the Mermaids: Julie
Meet Julie, our exceptionally stylish mermaid who not only dazzles with her fashion sense but also takes on the roles of the shop manager and apparel buyer at our 125 King St. store! Julie's passion truly shines in curating coastal chic outfits and selecting accessories that are on brand and coincide with our values. You can find her biking around downtown with the biggest smile on her face
Where are you from?
My father served in the US Army, so I grew up moving around. Both of my parents are from Alabama but I finished highschool in Manhattan, Kansas – and that’s where I met my husband and we were married. My father retired a few years ago and they decided to stay in Kansas!
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about health and fitness. It took years of doctors visits and unexplained health problems to finally learn that I have endometriosis. Now I am very passionate about sharing my story and all that I have learned, despite the limited “solutions” that were offered to me.
How did you find your way into the G&G family?
A little over a year ago, my husband and I had just moved to the area. After searching for a job where I could learn new skills and grow professionally, I found a listing for “creative concierge” at Grit & Grace. Interested in fostering my creative side, I was so intrigued by the brand mission and overall vibe. As soon as I finished my interview I knew I had found something truly special.
What do you do in your free time?
I spend a lot of my free time moving my body! I always do a mix of things so that I don’t get bored. I love everything from dance cardio, swimming, weight lifting, barefoot beach running, yoga, and HIIT. I also feel like I am always spurting out random fun facts, but that’s because I particularly love learning about nutrition, history, and ancient philosophy. Besides that, I spend time at home with my best friend – my husband, and our german shepherd.
What are you most proud of recently?
Over Thanksgiving I was recalling an embarrassing memory I had of when I tried out for my high school dance team – I was the only one to not make the team and I assumed it was because I had never done any formal dance lessons. My mom stopped me and she said “Julie, it wasn’t that you weren’t good enough! It was only because I couldn’t get your previous swim coach to send over your sports physical.” I had spent many years telling myself that I had failed but turns out it was just an unfortunate situation. I am proud of my younger self for trying something completely new and I learned that sometimes failures aren’t what they seem!
What roles have you done at G&G and how has that evolved over time?
I started as a Creative Concierge working in our flagship boutique. From there I found a knack for creating displays and became an assistant manager. A little while after that I had the opportunity to work our wholesale booth at a tradeshow and about 9 months ago I stepped into the position of store manager and buyer. Most of my days consist of helping lead the team at our flagship store and working alongside my team to select and order merchandise for the store!
The Grit & Grace team sends all the love and joy to Julie as she starts this new trip around the sun!
One Love & Blessings,