2020 Earnie Awards Winner – Undergarments: Esme

Undergarments

Esme

Est. 2003 

Sara Oh, CEO & Designer

First paying job: Assistant preschool teacher

Greatest fear: Heights and deep waters

Pet peeve: Dishonest people

Hobbies: DIY projects

Last movie you watched: Ip Man: The Final Fight

Favorite quarantine snack: Peanuts and pistachios

Best advice you’ve ever received: Go for the gusto!

Last book you read: Valley of the Horses by Jane Auel

Perfect Pivot Sales came to halt due to the pandemic, but the underwear kept steady all year. Converting our factory to produce masks helped maintain revenue when businesses first shutdown. We had the facility and extra (super soft) materials, which not only brought in sales but helped us gain new customers. All our customers were so grateful they still had access to quality underwear and masks from Esme.

Safety First We implemented strict factory guidelines to provide a safe environment for our workers. Everyone was provided masks, face shields, hand sanitizers and cleaning products for their work stations. Guidelines were also given to employees to take home, further educating them on how to stay safe as an individual and as a family. We also just held our second annual free flu shot program, which everyone participated in.

Looking Ahead Next year, we will expand our offerings to include loungewear for the whole family. And while we’re proud of being USA-made, we’re looking into other manufacturing options in 2021 to ensure our products are affordable during these difficult times.