05.06.2023 Views

Plateau Magazine June-July 2023

This issue we feature women entrepreneurs with locally run businesses and cowgirls who are protecting local animals. We also highlight protecting the land and fields that are important for bees and butterflies pollination. And for the foodies, check out our feature on the Highlands Tavern. Get outdoors with this issue, with our interview on legendary hiker Jennifer Pharr Davis.

This issue we feature women entrepreneurs with locally run businesses and cowgirls who are protecting local animals. We also highlight protecting the land and fields that are important for bees and butterflies pollination. And for the foodies, check out our feature on the Highlands Tavern. Get outdoors with this issue, with our interview on legendary hiker Jennifer Pharr Davis.

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H<br />

GRACEWEAR COLLECTION<br />

WENDY LUPAS<br />

828.507.7275 • GRACEWEARCOLLECTION.COM<br />

H<br />

H<br />

Our Business: Gracewear Collection is an inspirational brand of jewelry designed by<br />

founder Wendy Lupas and her sister, Mary Blackburn. The signature Shield of Faith design<br />

is trademarked and represents Ephesians 6: 10-18, which directs us to put on the<br />

Full Armor of God daily. Our boutique in Cashiers features Gracewear, beautiful apparel<br />

brands, inspirational gifts and original abstract art.<br />

Best Business Advice I Ever Received: My pastor, Gary Hewins of CBC Highlands, once<br />

told me to “Start Small but think BIG.” I have not always heeded this advice as I tend to<br />

sometimes do the opposite, but after many trials and errors over the years, I am doing<br />

my best to trust God and run Gracewear by this message in the scripture, Zechariah 4:10.<br />

Words of Wisdom to Other Women: Do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.<br />

There are many resources available to help you along the way. Also, embrace that there<br />

is nothing that is “below you” to do in your business—from cleaning the bathrooms to<br />

working directly with the customers. Your presence in every area of your business sets<br />

the standard for your business culture.<br />

Why I Chose This Career: Gracewear was truly an evolution through a series of life’s<br />

trials. After my husband suffered a life-threatening illness, I felt God calling me to share<br />

with women the meaning of Grace (unconditional love and forgiveness to bring you freedom).<br />

Our business has transitioned in many directions, however, sharing the powerful<br />

message of our brand through our jewelry, whether online, wholesale, or in our boutique,<br />

is truly the foundation and glue that holds the company together.<br />

The Secret to Good Business Is: Absolutely LOVE what you do! (most days!)<br />

You’d Never Guess That: The Gracewear concept started as a marriage ministry.<br />

Why I Love Doing Business in Highlands-Cashiers: Hands down, I LOVE this community<br />

for the people! During COVID, I closed the boutique for a season. I cannot tell you how<br />

much I missed our precious and loyal customers! I was called to re-open a much smaller<br />

boutique so I could continue to share about Gracewear with both our longtime customers<br />

and many new ones!<br />

<strong>June</strong>/<strong>July</strong> <strong>2023</strong> | 83

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