The big box stores have a huge advantage over the little guy….but where they run off the rails is in promoting ethical practices! Enter Grace Lane Boutique, a shop solely cemented in the idea that sales can serve the greater good. “It all started for me with the Bangladesh garment factory collapse in 2013. Many favorite brands of folks were made there…and on that day 1200 people died. I was like, what in the world are we doing?” said Danielle Goodman, the store’s proprietor. “I don’t think people realize what they are supporting when they buy certain brands, but we can do better!” And better is the name of the game at Grace Lane. Cozy, comfortable and a sense of peaceful shopping await in her 2 locations. (133 East 4th Street in Dayton & 4395 Holly Dr. at the Greene.)
The store is warm and the lighting suggests more than an in and out kind of experience. Each bar of soap, pair of socks or candle has a connection to ‘do the right thing’ in society. “I try to keep my eye on products that make a difference. Human trafficking, ethical sourcing, fair trade and fair treatment of women really resonate with me. It matters.” And with that, the brands are top notch and LOCAL! Dault Pottery (Bellbrook), Jill’s Jewelry (Clayton) and 11th Candle Company (Columbus) are just a few of the vendors represented. “Conscious Step Socks are all about doing better for the world. They are a top seller in my store. People want to do the right thing and support companies who support people.” One more vendor of note is Thistle Farms, a Tennessee company that uses it sales to help women with addiction, find them jobs and provide counseling. It is located in Nashville. Their theme is Healing, Hope & Freedom for Women Survivors. https://thistlefarms.org.
Clothing is the biggest seller in Grace Lane, but there is plenty to see. “We try to keep finding the right items for the boutique that are also mission driven.” Beyond the merchandise, and the coziness, you feel the love of the game. Danielle embraces people and their needs in a way that is genuine and sincere. As in any business, what drives the dollar is relationships, and Danielle gets that. You feel like family when you grab your goodies and head out the door. “I want my clients to feel good, and I want to feel good about what they have purchased. So many of them are thrilled to know they are making a difference. It’s that awareness that really drives me!”
There is plenty to gift in the boutique for the Holidays. Stocking Stuffers, dresses, handbags, jewelry….the list is endless. There is not better way to not only help one of Dayton’s small businesses, but to go beyond and help those in need elsewhere than to visit Grace Lane. She has done the research. and for you it’s all about trying it on and realizing it feels good to do good!
Check out their facebook and website.
