Meet Katherine McRee and Susan Ray
Founders of The Lili Pad and Gigi’s
When sisters Katherine McRee and Susan Ray opened The Lili Pad in 2004, they were inspired by their late mother’s entrepreneurial spirit. Fast forward 22 years, and their business in Cahaba Heights has expanded to include Gigi’s, a boutique for tweens and women. They shared their journey, challenges, and lessons learned in an interview.
Following in Their Mother’s Footsteps
Q: When did you know you wanted to follow your mother’s path in retail?
Susan: Before we even opened our boutique, Katherine and I dreamed of having a children’s store. Our mom, knowing the challenges of owning a retail business, tried to dissuade us. However, after she passed, we felt it was time to take that leap. In 2004, we opened The Lili Pad.
Katherine: We believed in the potential of Cahaba Heights to blossom into a thriving community. Our mother instilled in us the values of hard work, experience, and giving back.
Working Together as Sisters
Q: What is it like working together as sisters?
Katherine: We complement each other despite our differing personalities. We might disagree at times, but we always support one another as family.
Susan: Sisters have a unique understanding of each other’s history. Through shared memories, losses, and victories, we’ve built this business, which makes it deeply meaningful.
The Passion Behind Children’s Clothing
Q: What drives your passion for children’s clothing?
Katherine: Starting this journey when our kids were young has made every milestone special. We strive to not only help with wardrobes but also be a support during life’s ups and downs.
Susan: Each outfit reflects a cherished moment — be it a birthday or a first day of school. It’s about celebrating all the little seasons of childhood.
Excitement in Customer Interactions
Q: What excites you about helping customers?
Katherine: Christmas is a favorite. Helping families find matching outfits for holiday photos fills me with joy.
Susan: I still get excited about baby clothes, imagining how adorable they will look as gifts.
Lessons Learned in 22 Years
Q: What have you learned in your years in business?
Katherine: Trust in God! We’ve faced economic recessions and natural disasters, which taught us resilience and the importance of adapting.
Susan: Relationships and kindness matter. If we make customers feel cared for and welcome, that’s a successful day.
Lightning Round!
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Q: Favorite place for a family vacation?
- Katherine: Pinnacle Port, where our family has vacationed since my childhood.
- Susan: Our lake cabin on Logan Martin.
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Q: Best-kept Birmingham secret?
- Katherine: Canoeing and fishing on the Cahaba River.
- Susan: The city’s antique and vintage shops.
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Q: Top personal luxury in your grocery order?
- Katherine: Prime Rib Eye Steaks.
- Susan: A nice bottle of bubbly and Sour Patch Kids.
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Q: Quick bite in Cahaba Heights?
- Katherine: ZoZo’s Kitchen.
- Susan: The Olive Branch for their Greek salad and falafel.
Birmingham is home to many inspiring women. Meet more of them in the FACES archives.
