Moms at Work
Charlie & Grace All Grown Up
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
The first question is always the same, "What's the significance of your company's name?"
Ray Thompson and Alicia Breen grew up together in Weston. They later reconnected as adults when they moved back to the area. This time, they were two moms with a vision for a business.
"At the time, our kids were small and we were two creative moms looking for baby products that were both adorable and functional," Thompson explained. "We shared the same vision to design and create gifts for babies to ladies."
charlie & grace was launched four years ago...and you guessed it, the company was named for their oldest children.
The original vision expanded from baby gifts to ladies' accessories. If you know a woman in Fairfield, you've probably seen one of Ray Thompson's belts -- flirty, fun ones that brighten every black-on-black outfit you've resorted to now and again.
"We wanted a chic accessory to wear with every outfit," she said. "Our belts are designed in fashion fabrics with stylish buckles. The Isabelle Collection includes lizard belts in fabulous colors."
Over the last four years, charlie & grace has expanded exponentially. The products, which now also includes children's belts, are sold in retail stores, online at www.charlieandgrace.com and at local boutique shows. This year, the company received a high profile buy when it was chosen to become an official licensee for the Kentucky Derby.
"My inspiration comes from my family and amazing friends who are asked constantly at play dates and at the bus stop for their opinions on new product ideas and fabrics," she said. "My sons even chose the ribbons for the boys belts."
Thompson, a mom to two boys, admits her greatest challenge is being a dedicated hockey mom and a businesswoman.
"My kids want to feel a part of the business," she said, "and they are excited about an upcoming product which incorporates their ideas as well as raises money for childhood cancer research. I feel so lucky to have the opportunity to manage a business, my family and the craziness of life."
Five Questions for Ray Thompson:
Who's your favorite designer? Kate Spade
What's your favorite shop in Fairfield? Capri. "Fabulous clothes and they are so nice."
Your favorite baby gift? Charlie & Grace's 'Minky Cow Gift Set'. "The blanket feels like velvet and the cow is irresistible!"
(see image above)
Best business advice you've received? "A friend of mine said that it is best to try to stay focused instead jumping on every new idea."
One thing you'd change about Fairfield? "I am a hockey mom, so an ice rink would be perfect!"
Contact information for charlie & grace:
www.charlieandgrace.com
email:
Phone: (203) 257-9866
Ray Thompson and Alicia Breen grew up together in Weston. They later reconnected as adults when they moved back to the area. This time, they were two moms with a vision for a business.
"At the time, our kids were small and we were two creative moms looking for baby products that were both adorable and functional," Thompson explained. "We shared the same vision to design and create gifts for babies to ladies."
charlie & grace was launched four years ago...and you guessed it, the company was named for their oldest children.
The original vision expanded from baby gifts to ladies' accessories. If you know a woman in Fairfield, you've probably seen one of Ray Thompson's belts -- flirty, fun ones that brighten every black-on-black outfit you've resorted to now and again.
"We wanted a chic accessory to wear with every outfit," she said. "Our belts are designed in fashion fabrics with stylish buckles. The Isabelle Collection includes lizard belts in fabulous colors."
Over the last four years, charlie & grace has expanded exponentially. The products, which now also includes children's belts, are sold in retail stores, online at www.charlieandgrace.com and at local boutique shows. This year, the company received a high profile buy when it was chosen to become an official licensee for the Kentucky Derby.
"My inspiration comes from my family and amazing friends who are asked constantly at play dates and at the bus stop for their opinions on new product ideas and fabrics," she said. "My sons even chose the ribbons for the boys belts."
Thompson, a mom to two boys, admits her greatest challenge is being a dedicated hockey mom and a businesswoman.
"My kids want to feel a part of the business," she said, "and they are excited about an upcoming product which incorporates their ideas as well as raises money for childhood cancer research. I feel so lucky to have the opportunity to manage a business, my family and the craziness of life."
Five Questions for Ray Thompson:
Who's your favorite designer? Kate Spade
What's your favorite shop in Fairfield? Capri. "Fabulous clothes and they are so nice."
Your favorite baby gift? Charlie & Grace's 'Minky Cow Gift Set'. "The blanket feels like velvet and the cow is irresistible!"
(see image above)
Best business advice you've received? "A friend of mine said that it is best to try to stay focused instead jumping on every new idea."
One thing you'd change about Fairfield? "I am a hockey mom, so an ice rink would be perfect!"
Contact information for charlie & grace:
www.charlieandgrace.com
email:
Phone: (203) 257-9866
