a heartfelt note from Mary

To our community & friends, 

After ten inspiring and fulfilling years together, I’ve decided it’s time to take a step back and pause MARY YOUNG. This decision has not come lightly and is one that I have struggled with over some time as it affects more than me and you. But as someone who advocates for listening to your gut, honouring yourself and being boldly you – that is what I am choosing to do. 

MARY YOUNG started as much more than a soft bra in the days of padded and push up bras. It was created from a place of empowerment, a reminder that women are enough just as they are and a space for all to feel seen, celebrated and loved. It is impossible to express my level of gratitude for everyone of you who joined me on this journey and mission over the past decade. This journey has been nothing short of life changing and has shaped me into the person I am today, and for that I will be forever grateful. 

I am honoured to have had a place in your top drawers, in the fashion industry, specifically in Canada and most importantly, to work with and for the betterment of women. I never imagined how much purpose and passion this idea of mine that started as my thesis in university would give me as it grew into a brand that’s touched lives around the world. It has been with great pride that I’ve advocated for slow fashion, ethical and sustainable production practices and investing back into the Canadian economy – something that will always remain a core value to me. 

As a brand we have been swimming upstream in an industry that focuses – and celebrates – overconsumption, dupe culture and a pay-to-play model, which is why I’ve had to examine MARY YOUNG’s place in this space, in this world and most importantly, in my life. Change is often overshadowed by the fear of the unknown and that the end of something is a loss. Whereas I am choosing to look at this change as an opportunity for growth, for newness and to welcome the unknown with open arms. 

When I say that MARY YOUNG is personal to me, I mean it wholeheartedly – it has my blood, sweat and tears, it has been my way of life and my first born child. I am so thankful to each of you for holding space for this brand, the vision and meaning of MARY YOUNG and for allowing me to achieve my childhood dream. And to my team – now or then and in-between – thank you will never be enough for the love, support and encouragement you each have given me and MARY YOUNG. And to those I’ve had the privilege of working with over the years, your moments, hours, days and months of being part of bringing this vision to life will forever be cherished. 

Thank you to my dear friends, my family and my husband who have seen me through the seasons of this journey, who have championed me in the hard times and who are celebrating with me as I welcome new change. As it has been from day one, the love and support from each and every one of you in our community has fueled me to build, grow and evolve the brand.

With all of my love and appreciation, I thank you and look forward to sharing what's next in this wild ride of life.

XX
Mary