Oscar and Janice Johnson are what make Embrace Designs such a great story. Knowing Janice’s background in sewing, a friend who worked in the funeral industry suggested making funeral garments on the side. Oscar and Janice made a few dresses, showed them to the funeral home and the rest is history. They began attending conferences and shows to help the business grow. But when Oscar lost his ability to see, the business was no longer sustainable. Later, the couple heard about the self-employment program through Vocational Rehabilitation and the business had new life.
Every time they are able to show the garments to funeral directors, impressions are always high. And this is where the couple shine as they build relationships with their customers. Through their warmth and understanding they embrace the partnerships made with various funeral homes throughout the country.
For both of them, the business is about passion, and “making sure your loved ones have something to wear with a genuine quality and style.” They want everyone to know, “your disability should never stop you from reaching your dreams and don’t give up on what your passion is.”
About working with Portals, Oscar says, “They were genuine with us from the start and encouraged us to use what we had and always helped when we needed it. Portals introduced us to SCORE and other resources to help.”
Make sure to follow Embrace Designs on Facebook and contact them for any of your burial garment needs!
If you are inspired by the idea of starting your own business, or if you are a counselor that has a candidate you believe is a good fit for self-employment, please contact us. We would love to help, and are passionate about getting people the assistance they need to be more independent.
If you are or know someone who is interested in owning your own business please contact us using our online form to get started.
Download a hard copy of the Johnson's Spotlight HERE.
www.PortalsLLC.org
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