Meet Denise Reese

We had the good fortune of connecting with Denise Reese and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Denise, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I honestly don’t subscribe to the notion of work-life balance. I much prefer work-life integration! For me, the idea of balance suggests that work and life are opposing forces that need to be weighed against each other, and I’ve found that this approach can sometimes create unnecessary stress. Instead, I focus on integrating the two in a way that allows them to complement and enhance one another.

Over time, I’ve learned that integrating my work and personal life brings me more fulfillment and creativity. This means being flexible and finding ways to blend my professional passions with my personal life. For example, the inspiration behind Grace The Collection came from a very personal place, and it’s something that resonates deeply with who I am. By integrating my values and experiences into my work, I’m able to stay motivated and maintain a sense of purpose without feeling the need to compartmentalize my life.

Because I also have a demanding full-time role, in addition to being an entrepreneur, work-life integration allows me to flow more naturally between work and personal time. Some days, work takes center stage, and other days, my personal life does. It’s about being in tune with what I need at any given moment and creating a lifestyle where both aspects can thrive together. This approach has not only enriched my career but has also made my personal life more meaningful.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more? What do you specialize in? What sets you apart from others?
Founding Grace The Collection has absolutely been a labor of love. Balancing the demands of a full-time role while building this company has been challenging, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. A dear friend, who also started her company while working shared with me, “maintaining your career while building your company will keep you hungry, but not desperate.” I couldn’t have said it better! This perspective has allowed me to stay motivated and driven, while also ensuring that I make thoughtful decisions for the long-term success of my brand.

What sets Grace The Collection apart is the deeply personal connection behind the brand. Our luxury home fragrances are not just products; they are extensions of the values and experiences that have shaped me. Inspired by the concept of grace, which became my guiding word during the challenging year that was 2020, each fragrance is crafted to evoke a sense of peace, reflection, and mindfulness. I’m most proud of the community we’ve built—customers who resonate with our mission and who find comfort and joy in our products. Their support and feedback fuel my passion and commitment to this work.

Getting to where I am today has not been easy. There are countless late nights, moments of doubt, and financial hurdles along the way. However, I’ve learned that resilience, adaptability, and a strong support system are key to overcoming these challenges. Each setback is an opportunity to learn and grow, and I’ve emerged stronger and more determined after each one. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of staying true to your vision, even when the path is unclear. Authenticity resonates with people, and that’s what keeps them coming back.

What I want the world to know about Grace The Collection is that it’s more than just a business—it’s a reflection of a journey. It’s about extending grace to ourselves and each other, and finding moments of peace in a busy world. My story is one of persistence, passion, and a belief that even in the face of challenges, beauty and grace can prevail.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Wow, this is hard! Atlanta has been home for me since 2008, and it’s the longest I’ve lived anywhere. I love so many things about the city, and it’s changed considerably over the years. Some of the places I’d recommend are no longer, but a week here can create a different vibe every day!

Being the birthplace of The Civil Rights Movement, we’d have to start with a visit to The King Center and The Center for Civil and Human Rights. We’d round out the day with a visit to The Atlanta History Center and have dinner at Carmel

We would continue our educational tour with a trip to The Carter Center and The High Museum of Art. No trip to Atlanta is complete without a visit to The World of Coca Cola, so we’d definitely add that to the list.

I fancy myself as somewhat of a foodie, so we’d definitely check out at least a couple of my favorites; Southern National, Marcel, Dear and The Dove, MF Sushi, Kinjo Room, Little Sparrow, and St. Cecilia.

Because we’d be eating our way through the city, we’d have to absolutely walk off those calories on The Beltline. And we’d definitely have to round out the week with a spa day at Woodhouse Spa in Buckhead, because, we deserve it!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many in my village who are integral to my success. My mom, Ruth Reese, is my number one cheerleader. She has always believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams relentlessly.

My family and my small, but mighty friendship circle have been pillars of support, offering love and guidance every step of the way.

However, I am especially grateful to the customers who continuously support Grace The Collection! Without them, none of this would be possible and I am eternally grateful for how they continue to show up for me.

So this shout out is dedicated to the community that is Grace The Collection. Thank you for your ongoing support! The best is yet to come!

Website: www.gracethecollection.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracethecollection

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grace-the-collection

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gracethecollection

Threads: @gracethecollection

Image Credits
All photographs were shot by Crystal Uqdah @crystalonbrand