Meet Stephanie James

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie James and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Throne of Grace thrives on two fundamental pillars that drive its success: a deep understanding of our gifts and a steadfast commitment to purpose. These elements empower us to steward our talents effectively, both individually and as a cohesive team, ensuring that our brand operates smoothly and meets its ambitious goals.

From its inception, our mission has been clear: to glorify God and spread His word through fashion forward pieces that resonates powerfully and authentically. Every decision we make is rooted in this purpose, guiding everything from the designs created by my husband to the collaborative input from our children. My role as Business Manager and Community Engagement further amplifies our commitment to this mission, influencing how we connect with those around us.

At Throne of Grace, we don’t merely sell clothing; we provide a platform for individuals to creatively express a vital message of hope, grace, and reconciliation with God. Our success stems from being consistently prayerful, engaged, and connected to our community. This approach has allowed our brand to flourish in ways that are not only impactful but also deeply meaningful, reinforcing our convictions and dedication to our mission.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Having a key position for Throne of Grace Clothing, I take immense pride in my role within the brand. While my husband serves as the visionary and face of our company, I have become the backbone that supports our mission and drives our growth. By nurturing community engagement, managing our connections, and handling the numbers, I ensure that our brand continues to flourish. This is all achieved while I also maintain a management role in the insurance industry, where I lead a team of agents, helping them develop valuable skills to achieve their professional and personal goals.

My experiences at Throne of Grace have significantly shaped my management capabilities in corporate America. The skills I’ve honed, discipline, resilience, leadership, and the ability to navigate challenges with grace, have been instrumental in both positions. Balancing a full-time career, family responsibilities, and the demands of a growing brand does come with its fair share of challenges. There have been moments of exhaustion, self-doubt, and the need to pivot, but consistent prayer, perseverance, and the lessons learned from those who have influenced my life have anchored me in my purpose.

One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is that you don’t need to have everything figured out to make a difference in the world or to grow a business successfully. Embracing our God-given gifts and purpose allows us to play our unique roles in the larger tapestry of success. The key lies in believing in oneself, operating in faith, and being open to receiving grace.

What I want the world to know about Throne of Grace Clothing is that it goes far beyond just apparel; it embodies a powerful representation of Christ, delivered boldly and authentically. Our narrative is founded on faith, family, and a commitment to making Jesus known in everyday spaces. Whether it’s a t-shirt, a jacket, or a dress, our goal is to empower individuals to wear their faith with confidence and purpose, transforming clothing into a statement of belief and a beacon of hope.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
To kick off the visit, I’d turn on the radio to catch our Throne of Grace friend, Payton Whitmore, along with the incredible crew of the 104.7 JohnJay & Rich show. Their hilarious insights and everyday topics always crack us up and set a cheerful vibe for the day.

Our first stop would be the Throne of Grace headquarters, where I’d gift my friend the latest threads from our collection. Sharing our brand’s energy with loved ones is always a joy. With stylish new outfits in tow, we’d head to Birrieria Las Maria’s for some delicious Mexican food. Known for their mouthwatering chilaquiles, this place never disappoints, and sharing that experience with a friend makes it even better.

After brunch, we could attend one of the Throne of Grace photoshoots, which always feels like a family event filled with laughter and great conversations. If my friend is up for it, I’d let her jump into a few shots to be featured in our social media content or articles!

Next, we’d dive into the creative scene at First Friday and Roosevelt Row. We’d snap photos of the vibrant cultural displays and murals, explore local vendors, and network with fellow fashionistas. There’s an undeniable energy in the air, and I love showcasing the artistic heart of Phoenix.

During the weekend, we would lace up our hiking boots for an adventure. We might tackle Thunderbird Mountain or Camelback Mountain. The views from the top are breathtaking—each step brings us closer to a reward that makes the effort worthwhile. There’s something rejuvenating about connecting with nature, and I love sharing the stunning landscapes of Arizona with my friend.

After working up an appetite, we’d grab lunch at Rito’s Burritos in Glendale. It’s a local favorite for good reason—their bean and cheese burritos are simply the best! With satisfied appetites, we’d continue our day by browsing shops and boutiques. We’d be sure to stop by Amanda’s at Alis Volat Jewelry to select some unique pieces that perfectly complement our outfits for the evening.

After watching the breathtaking sunset, we would gear up for a Phoenix Fashion Week event. I always look forward to these gatherings; they offer fantastic opportunities to network with industry professionals, celebrate our model friends, and find inspiration in the thriving fashion culture of Phoenix. The atmosphere is always electric!

Before calling it a night, we’d swing by Al Amor Micro Bakery. Their motto of “small batches of treats made with lots of love” rings true, and every bite is a delightful experience.

To wrap up our perfect weekend, we would attend a worship service at Vineyard Church, where we would immerse ourselves in the Word and the grace of God. I’d introduce her to my amazing VC leader friends, Noemi and AJ, then to my dear friends Danielle and Marcus Harvey. who always provide an extra level of fellowship and laughter.

To close out the day, we would visit the Gonzales family in Glendale, one of our cherished traditions. It’s all about community, and we love spending time with Richard, Elizabeth, Adam, and Bri. The father-son grill masters always serve up the best food, while Elizabeth and Bri create a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with laughter, great conversation, and wonderful music.

As the weekend concludes, I reflect on the joy of sharing these moments with friends and the importance of community. There’s truly no better way to celebrate life than through great food, laughter, and good company. A weekend like this is a beautiful reminder of what makes Arizona special and why I cherish every moment spent with the people I love.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, all glory goes to God. Without His guidance, grace, and the profound purpose He instilled in my heart, none of this would be possible. In every aspect of my journey, I recognize the divine influence that has directed my path and fueled my ambitions.

I must also express my heartfelt appreciation for my husband, the visionary and creative heartbeat of our brand. His dedication and God-given talent breathe life into our message, transforming our vision into captivating fashion that resonates deeply with our audience.

Equally important is the gratitude I owe to the remarkable women who have profoundly shaped my life: my mother, Lupita Lelis, and my grandmother, Pascuala Garcia. They exemplify the true value of hard work, integrity, and perseverance. Growing up, I watched them navigate the delicate balance between work and family with grace and intention, teaching me invaluable lessons about resilience.

My father, Anthony Lelis, also played a crucial role in preparing me for life’s challenges. As a veteran, he instilled in me the principles of structure and strategic thinking, fostering my confidence and shaping my perspective on the world.

A special acknowledgment goes to my siblings—my sisters, Lillian Robles and Nicole Ortiz, as well as my brother, Michael Lelis, and cousin, Yissel Molina. Their unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping the person I am today. Lastly, my beautiful children, Jeo and Christabel James, are my greatest inspiration, motivating me daily to strive for excellence and purpose.

Together, these influences have not only guided my journey but have also helped forge a path of authenticity and determination in everything we do.

Website: https://www.togclothing.com

Instagram: @throneofgraceclothing

Image Credits
Jeff Otto
@jeffottocreative

MJD Photography
@_mjdphotography