Elise Champe

Elise Champe is the founder and CEO of éclipse Glove, a sustainable clothing brand based in Longmont, Colorado.1 Her background and career are characterized by a unique blend of art, science, and entrepreneurship:

Professional Background

Elise founded éclipse Glove in January 2008 and has been leading the company for over 16 years.1 Her journey as an entrepreneur began even earlier when she founded Sun Glove in September 2004.1

Education and Skills

Elise's educational background is diverse:

• She holds Bachelor's degrees in both Art and Physical Therapy from the University of Vermont, New England College, and Rhode Island School of Design.1
• This combination of artistic and scientific knowledge is reflected in her approach to design, creating products that are both attractive and functional.1

Business Philosophy

Elise takes a holistic approach to fashion:

• éclipse Apparel focuses on using UPF50 fabric and innovative designs.1
• The company aims to offer clothing that aligns with environmental consciousness and personal well-being.1
• Elise helps people rethink their relationship with clothing, emphasizing its role in a thriving life and a healthy planet.1

Personal Life

• Elise grew up between Paris, France, and the United States, which influenced her standards for style and comfort.1
• She is bilingual, with native or bilingual proficiency in both French and English.1
• Currently, she resides in Longmont, Colorado, where she balances running her business with parenting her two teenage children.1

Entrepreneurial Journey

Elise's path to success is marked by determination and heart-driven decisions:

• She started with designing sun sleeves for personal use, which led to obtaining a United States utility patent.2
• The company initially focused on sun protective accessories before considering expansion into general apparel.2
• Elise and her team made the strategic decision to return to their core products of sun sleeves, sun gloves, and other sun accessories, prioritizing Made in America manufacturing despite cost challenges.2

Elise Champe's career exemplifies how a multidisciplinary background can lead to innovative business solutions, particularly in the realm of sustainable and functional fashion.