The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is pleased to shine the spotlight on Grace Edwards in our Community Proud series, sponsored by CorePlus Credit Union. At just 24 years old, Grace is making her mark as the manager of The RiverLane Mystic, blending her love for fashion with her deep-rooted connection to the community that raised her.

A proud 2023 graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a degree in Psychology, Grace returned home to Old Lyme unsure of her next steps. That path became clear when she met The RiverLane’s owner, Robin Zubretsky. Drawn to Robin’s vision, leadership, and dedication to the community, Grace embraced the opportunity—beginning as a part-time stylist in late 2023 and quickly rising to manage the Mystic location shortly after its opening.

Her journey has been one of growth and discovery. From buying trips to New York City to curating collections that inspire confidence in customers, Grace has developed a genuine passion for fashion. She credits her evolving style and professional confidence to the mentorship she’s received, saying, “Working for a woman-owned, local brand rooted in community has been especially meaningful to me. It’s inspiring to be part of something that believes in you, invests in you, and encourages you to grow—not just as an employee, but as a person.”

Beyond the sales floor, Grace is committed to giving back. She cites The RiverLane’s partnership with Dog Days Adoption as a highlight of her year—an event where 62 at-risk dogs found loving homes. “It was one of those moments that reminds you how powerful it is to be part of something bigger than yourself,” she recalls. “Watching the community rally together and knowing that we helped change those dogs’ lives was incredibly moving.”

Raised among the charm of Mystic’s shops and shoreline, Grace has always felt a strong pull to this area. Her family owns Jonathan Edwards Winery—and she’s proud to contribute to the region’s vibrant retail scene. “Now, being part of the community in a more hands-on way—working in a local shop and connecting with both locals and visitors—feels incredibly full-circle and deeply rewarding. This community has always felt like home, and I’m grateful to be rooted in it.”

Outside of work, Grace enjoys summer beach days with her mom, skiing in the winter, and traveling with her boyfriend on their mission to visit all 63 National Parks—nine down, many more to go.

Grace’s advice to young women pursuing a career in fashion is simple yet powerful: “Surround yourself with people who uplift you and genuinely support your growth. That can make all the difference. In an industry that can feel competitive, finding a workplace where you are valued and encouraged will help you not only succeed, but truly thrive.” She credits her mom for her work ethic, always encouraging her to set the bar high and to always find her happiness.

“Being recognized by the Chamber’s Community Proud series is truly meaningful to me—both personally and professionally,” Grace shares. “To now be managing a store in the town I grew up visiting as a kid, and to contribute to the fabric of this community through a small retail business I love, is incredibly special. It feels like a full-circle moment, and I’m honored to be recognized for doing something I genuinely love, in a place that means so much to me.”

The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize Grace Edwards, whose energy and dedication reflect the very best of what it means to be Community Proud.