WOMEN TO WATCH

Grace Kang

Founder and Chief Buyer
Pink Olive

I am a retail buyer, mentor to creatives, and seeker of beautiful objects that inspire giving and beautiful living. Formerly I was a fashion buyer in New York City before launching Pink Olive, which just celebrated its 16th anniversary. Last year, we opened our first out-of-state location in SoMa, where I currently live with my husband and two fur babies.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

Best career moment so far

Reaching the 10-year benchmark and being featured on the TODAY show for the #ShopSmall segment!

A skill I never expected to need in this field

Every day is all about problem-solving. Being able to defuse conflicts or unexpected situations in a calm and professional manner is critical and much needed in this field.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

The people. With so much happening in retail right now, we're so grateful for our customers. Every person who walks through these doors means so much to us.

Nonprofit I wish more people knew about

Firehouse Museum & Hostel

Biggest challenges in my career

Starting my business right before the economic crisis in 2008 and navigating through the pandemic in 2020 allowed everyone to step up in new ways.

What I learned from my first job

I learned how to be nimble. You're only good as LY, so being open to change and embracing new challenges is key.

Best advice I ever received

The best business advice I’ve received was from my dad. He said to me, “Take one thing and go all the way.” And that’s exactly what I did.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

It can be a demanding and challenging industry, especially when you have stores in different locations. However, it can also be rewarding with the connections you make along the way.

IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS

Hometown

Ridgewood, NJ and NYC

I can't start my day until

Morning devotion, coffee and puppy kisses of course ;)

Hobbies

Cooking with my husband, playing with my puppy, Olive, and antique shopping

Binge watch

“Breaking Bad”

Last good read

“Essentialism” by Greg Mckeown

Favorite meal in town

Soppressata and honey pizza at Raduno's

Best recent local discovery

Pettaway Square

Latest splurge

Ritz-Carlton bedding (after experiencing it during our wedding in Turks & Caicos)

Most-used app

Instagram

Dream vacation

Maldives

SPONSORS