Today we’d like to introduce you to Anne Marie Johnson.
Hi Anne Marie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Bitter Grace launched online in December 2018 and opened its flagship store in Washington, DC in 2020. I’ve always had a desire to use fashion as a medium to unite women of all walks of life and to empower each other to step into our power to be the people we were always meant to be. After our self-care retreat in Washington, DC in 2019, I realized that it was important to build a company beyond clothing; a holistic and lifestyle approach that helps align our external self (the person we show up to the world) with our inner self (the person we envision ourselves to be) in order to be our most authentic and magnetic selves and to create the ideal life we’ve always wanted. Bitter Grace today represents this commitment. Through our Inner Elegance community platform (that helps elevate self-image and our unique personalized personal styling experiences) we help women feel bolder and more confident to show up to the world and live a life filled with limitless possibilities.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
With any business, there are always challenges and problems to solve. I’ve never been a business owner or have a background in business or fashion. I’ve had to learn while simultaneously educating myself, while also developing and strengthening my leadership and problem-solving skills. Working to shift my mindset has been the most transformative, especially when doing things for the first time and learning to pivot along the way. I accept that it’s a part of the journey and not possible to grow if you’re always winning. Opening up a store during a pandemic was tough, but we’ve come out on the other side stronger and more optimistic about the future. It’s been a joy to see the organic growth we’ve experienced the past year simply by doing things with faith and purpose.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We are a lifestyle brand committed to sustainability and helping other communities find a meaningful way to earn income. Our new Elevated Every Day (athleisure wear) collection, along with our partnerships with other brands and designers whose missions are to help artisans and marginalized communities thrive, are a reflection of this commitment. We also have our own line of candles, as well as other home and self-care essentials. We’re known for sustainable, quality, timeless, and versatile staples that are great for everyday wear, along with our personalized styling experiences. Our mission and commitment to sustainability and community are what sets us apart. We are most proud of the opportunity to create a beautiful and inviting space for everyone to feel welcomed and inspired to do and be more. I invite you to learn more about us by through visiting our website, www.bittergracedc.com and following our journey via social media @bittergracedc. We love working with women helping them elevate their style through one of our personalized styling experiences here. 10% of our online sales go toward supporting our non-profit partner, Women’s HQ, helping women of color triumph from trauma.
What matters most to you?
To be able to provide meaningful services that help make the world a better place and create new leaders. Additionally, to operate with integrity and purpose through our conscious efforts and commitment to be more sustainable and inclusive as a brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bittergracedc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bittergracedc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bittergracedc
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8TpZdDwkrus6HgZoGd9v2g/videos?view_as=subscriber
Image Credits:
Tina Leu
