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

Hi Ginny and Kate, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The idea for Newport Knits was sparked by our personal experience of spending countless hours cheering on our kids at their various sporting events. We noticed a gap in the market for fashionable fan gear. We strive to create pieces that aren’t merely worn but cherished and that fans can wear with pride beyond the bleachers. The concept of “elevated fan gear” was born, bringing together our love for design, community, and the spirit of support.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets Newport Knits apart is the combination of our diverse educational backgrounds. Both USC graduates (Kate graduated from the School of Occupational Therapy and Science and Ginny graduated from the School of Cinematic Arts), the blend of our occupations allows us to approach sweater design from a fresh and creative perspective. We understand the importance of functionality and comfort in our designs. It’s also very important to us that we are designing something that we would like to wear ourselves. Our career paths took a significant turn when we became mothers. Cheering our kids on from the sidelines during their sports events and representing their schools and teams sparked an idea within us. We realized there was a need for high-quality, custom-designed sweaters that truly captured the spirit and pride of these institutions.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The love of our hometown, Newport Beach, inspired the name Newport Knits. There are so many incredible places to visit right here in our backyard! No trip to Newport would be complete without a beach day. Crystal Cove State Park, Corona Del Mar State Beach, and 36th Street on the Peninsula are all great choices! Other fun activities would be walking around Balboa Island and visiting the Fun Zone after a ride on the Ferry. You can rent bikes and cruise the boardwalk on a sunny day or rent a Duffy boat and cruise the bay while enjoying appetizers and a beautiful sunset. Shoppers paradise can be found at Fashion Island, an upscale shopping center with various stores, boutiques, and restaurants. Our favorite dining place is The Cannery, a popular waterfront restaurant known for its seafood and scenic harbor views. Be sure to check out Bear Flag Fish Company and Circle Hook in Lido Marina Village. The Farmhouse at Rogers Gardens is a farm-to-table restaurant with a beautiful outdoor patio. “A” Restaurant, a historic steakhouse, is not to be missed with its sophisticated and old-school ambiance, with the best martini in town! This is only scratching the surface of the endless options of activities and restaurants in our hometown!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
We would like to give a shoutout to our amazing husbands, who have been our biggest supporters on this journey of starting Newport Knits. We couldn’t have taken this leap without their love, understanding, and belief in our abilities. From late-night brainstorming designs to logistics, they have been there every step of the way.

Website: www.newportknits.com

Instagram: newportknits

Image Credits
Photographer: Ariele Chapman Photography

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