Founded by Tina Wong, a lifelong Chicago Bears fan raised in Rogers Park, the business concept evolved out of a desire to create a more personalized, curated shopping experience for brides. Located in Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood, Wong's concept to create custom, made-to-measure dresses and bridal accessories has evolved since 2017 and now includes a flexible, try-at-home option for brides of all ages, budgets and needs.
"Teaming up with the Bears and PNC will help us connect with a broader audience while lifting up a homegrown business rooted in empowerment," said Tina Wong, Founder and Creative Director of Grace + Ivory. "My hope is that this exposure will drive awareness, increase showroom visits, and expand our impact: more dresses sold, means more women supported. As a business built by women and for women, there's no better teammate than the Chicago Bears and PNC."
As a designer, Wong envisioned a brand with a welcoming showroom to offer brides a more thoughtful, inclusive and empowering way to shop with confidence on their own terms. Known for its craftsmanship and personalization, Grace + Ivory reflects Wong's vision of bridalwear that centers around user needs and celebrates individuality.
"At PNC, we recognize the vital role small businesses play in driving economic growth across our community. Grace + Ivory demonstrates yet another business born from an entrepreneurial spirit, creating meaningful impact for consumers and a broad ecosystem of designers and suppliers," said Scott Swanson, PNC regional president of Illinois. "We are proud to recognize Tina and her journey to create a unique brand here in the heart of Chicago."
Wong's business concept was born from her own wedding dress search experience, where she encountered limited options, high markups and a seemingly lack of empathy while visiting traditional boutiques. Her bridal brand has evolved into a platform for social impact, using weddings as a way to celebrate love while investing in the future of women in Chicago. Her success helps uplift a broader network of women-led businesses, from stylists to event vendors, creating a ripple effect of opportunity and shared growth.
She believes business can be a force for good. Leaning into her previous experience with the international non-profit sector, Wong pays it forward by investing beyond a dress and veil. A portion of her sales goes toward supporting organizations committed to uplifting women such as the Chicago Foundation for Women, which funds programs focused on safety, economic security and access to healthcare for women and girls across the region.
"Since launching in 2017, I believe we have become a trusted resource in the wedding industry and for customers across Chicagoland. By blending our modern style with a mission-driven approach, it is my goal to continue to build a distinctive brand which resonates with today's bride," adds Wong.
Recognizing Grace + Ivory as a 2025 Small Business All-Pros recipient reflects a commitment by the Chicago Bears and PNC to uplift businesses that demonstrate resilience, impact and deep community ties. Wong's story highlights the importance of visibility for women-owned businesses and how local entrepreneurs can drive meaningful change in their communities.
To learn more about Grace + Ivory and explore their offerings, visit: graceandivory.com.
