VERA BRADLEY WINTER 2018 SOURCEBOOK

The best stories have the most unexpected beginnings - $500, a ping pong table as a work space, and a bright idea in 1982 has turned into a global...
VERA BRADLEY WINTER 2018 SOURCEBOOK

THE VERA BRADLEY STORY (from www.verabradley.com)

The best stories have the most unexpected beginnings – $500, a ping pong table as a work space, and a bright idea in 1982 has turned into a global success. First neighbors, then friends turned founders Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia R. Miller were disappointed at the absence of beautiful luggage in airports and decided to create their own. Their friendship and desire to bring beauty to the world continue to remain at the heart of the company.

 

WHO WAS VERA BRADLEY

Model, mother, hostess and friend. Vera Bradley was the mother of Barbara Baekgaard and even worked for the company, as a sales representative in south Florida, until she died in the early 1990s. She was an exceptional woman and continues to be a point of inspiration for the company. Vera Bradley stores continue to honor her by celebrating her birthday every year.

 

OUR BUSINESS

At its very core, Vera Bradley is an innovative brand for women. We've always been inspired by the needs of real women, and our proudest moments have been when we can bring communities of women together through their shared love of beauty.

We specialize in bags, fragrance, luggage, and accessories – and are continuing to offer new and exciting products to our consumers. Our products offer beautiful solutions that add brightness and fun wherever you carry them.

We have multiple distribution points throughout the United States and Japan. We sell directly to the consumer through our full-price and factory stores, e-commerce, and Annual Outlet Sale. In addition, we sell indirectly through our specialty retail partners, key accounts, and department stores.

 

VALUES

Here at Vera Bradley, we believe that beauty is to be celebrated in all we do. We look for Associates who are excited to celebrate alongside us.
We believe in making someone's day by living our values.

Empathy – acting with compassion in our hearts and having an open mind.
We design our products with a deep understanding of our consumer. They are the focus of all we do.

Kindness – caring for everyone we meet like family.
We treat our consumers, coworkers, and partners with utmost care.

Ingenuity – using creativity to solve problems with flair.
We continually strive for artful solutions to solve the real needs in her life.

Tenacity – doing the right thing and keeping a perspective on the bigger picture.
We are a relentless force paving the way for new ways to uplift women.

Thoughtfulness – paying attention and perfecting the details.
We never sacrifice an opportunity to be inviting, warm, and considerate.

Optimism – bringing a light-hearted spirit and fun to every interaction.
We share our bright spirit and good-natured humor through every interaction.

 

COMMITMENTS

VERA BRADLEY FOUNDATION FOR BREAST CANCER

Founders Barbra Bradley Baekgaad and Patricia R. Miller created the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer in memory of their friend, Mary Sloan who lost her battle with the disease. They are dedicated to being part of the solution and determined to help create a world where no one has to lose loved ones to cancer. The Foundation philanthropy has helped fund cutting edge breast cancer research in laboratories at the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center in Indianapolis.

Since 1998, $28.1 million has been raised for breast cancer research. Vera Bradley Associates are able to support the charity through events like the Vera Bradley Classic, annual golf and tennis charity tournament.

In addition, we contribute cash, product and volunteer time to many other charities nationwide. Learn More

 

MORE PHILANTHROPIC CAUSES

Reaching beyond our hometown, we match our employees' contributions to local United Way agencies and other non-profits that are important to them nationwide. Our Volunteer Time Off program encourages employees to apply their time and talents at a non-profit mission of their choice on paid company time one day per year. In all, we donate product and dollars to more than 3000 causes annually.

 

CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY

Our influence doesn't stop at beautiful bags – Vera Bradley is dedicated to lending a hand, being a supporter of our communities, and advocating for responsible product production.
We are also passionate about creating a workplace where we embrace our differences – inclusion is something that will never go out of style.

"Vera Bradley has nurtured and promoted a culture of inclusion and fairness since its founding 33 years ago. We are steadfastly committed to equal employment opportunities for all, and we adhere to the same standards as it relates to our customers, suppliers, and anyone with whom we do business. Our goal remains to provide the same high level of service to everyone that shops with us regardless of age, race, sexual orientation, religion or political party."

 

Vera Bradley CEO, Robert Wallstrom on Vera Bradley's Fairness and Inclusion Policy

Related Stories

No stories found.
logo
Resident Magazine
resident.com