International Women's Day: Scaling a business while putting women first
Grace Loves Lace, the Australian online bridal brand founded by Megan Ziems, has a workforce that is 97% female, a statistic that reflects a deliberate approach to leadership and culture. For Ziems, scaling a global eCommerce business has always been intertwined with empowering women across every level of the organisation.
Her approach to leadership was shaped from an early age in her mother's design and dressmaking studio. As a teenager, Ziems assisted with sessions, observing cutters lay fabric across tables, sewers meticulously assemble garments, and her mother combine unique laces and trims.
"My mum was my inspiration, the most passionate person I knew when it came to the art of lace and dressmaking," she recalls. "As I got older, I realised that her love for authentic design and high-quality fabrics had become ingrained in me."
Her parents, both immigrants and small business owners, reinforced the values of work, family, and care.
"I saw early on that work and family life can coexist closely, and that you can create a culture of genuine care and connection," Ziems says.
Scaling a global online business has presented challenges unique to women in leadership. During her pregnancy, a mentor criticised her for rescheduling a session while breastfeeding, an experience that highlighted the scrutiny women often face.
"That was an 'ah-huh' moment. It was a reminder that even when you work hard and lead with integrity, women often face scrutiny for simply balancing responsibilities. It reinforced my commitment to build a culture where women are supported, not judged, and where leadership is defined by skill, values, and impact, not gender."
This philosophy guides how Ziems builds teams and scales operations. Creating pathways for development, mentorship, and leadership is central to sustainable growth, particularly in a digital-first business environment.
"For me, success isn't just about revenue," she says. "It's about empowering women to thrive at every level, whether they're in the studio, on the shop floor, or running their own business someday."
Running a global eCommerce business has also emphasised the importance of clarity, focus, and perspective.
"I don't see it as juggling. I feel lucky that I get to do it. When things feel overwhelming, I pare back, focus on priorities, and exercise discipline. Optimism and gratitude keep me grounded."
Her advice to other female founders is rooted in authenticity and resilience:
"You need to be clear on your vision and protect your authenticity. Resilience and gut instinct will carry you further than perfection ever will. External pressures and doubts will come, but if you stay true to yourself, you can navigate anything."
"Work hard, absolutely, but focus on what matters most. Your superpower is trusting your own intuition and energy. That's what will make your business, and your leadership, truly distinctive."
Ultimately, Ziems hopes her leadership leaves a legacy beyond business metrics:
"I want to create workplaces women love, where they can grow, gain confidence, and build meaningful relationships. I want brides to feel empowered on their wedding day and to know that businesses can operate with care, ethics, and creativity at the core."
For International Women's Day, Grace Loves Lace serves as an example of how scaling a business and empowering women are mutually reinforcing. Leadership that prioritises people as well as performance builds cultures where women can thrive, and ensures sustainable, ethical growth in a global, digital-first business landscape.