Aaron Walters, who previously worked at Walgreens, Walmart, Macy’s and Hybrid’s apparel, didn’t want to just move up on the merchandise ladder. He wanted to leave a lasting legacy by using the talents that God blessed him with. So he launched Altar’d State in 2009, a faith based apparel store for women. He sums up the mission statement of the store, saying, “We are faith-based. It doesn’t matter what your background is, where you are from, or what your beliefs are. But we do run our business on some simple principles — treat others how you want to be treated and give much help to others. We put love into our business.”
The name Altar’d State points to the altar of God, and is also a play on the word “altered.” Walters now manages 250 to 300 stores as of 2019, and the store popularity continues to grow. Customers are attracted to the store’s faith based values and messages, as well as the beautiful layout of the store, which is unique to eac
h store location. Stores are decorated in a way that sets them apart from other stores, with elements such as furniture, chandeliers, colorful rugs, hanging plants, and antique tables and mirrors. Even the fitting rooms are carefully designed. Walters also listens to his customers, which is crucial to the store’s success. He and his employees respect their customers and make their experience enjoyable and comfortable. They deliver quality clothing and accessory pieces to their customers, while also promoting faith and encouraging words.
Walters not only manages Altar’d State, but also Arula, Vow’d, Tullabee, and AS Revival, which are all part of his incorporation, Stand Out for Good Inc. The company also promotes Mission Mondays. When a customer shops on Mondays, 10% of net proceeds go directly to nonprofits across the country. Every store chooses a non-profit to fund and support.
I love shopping at Altar’d State not only because I love the quality and style of their clothing, but also because I love what they stand for and what they support. Altar’d State’s popularity continues to grow, just as Walters and his team continue to inspire and encourage customers.
https://www.altardstate.com/
I think this is such an interesting idea! There is definitely room for faith-based stores and I love that this emphasizes the customer experience–half the reason most people love shopping. It’s also cool that he used his expertise and previous experience in retail to create his ideal shopping outlet.
I just learned about Altar’d State within the last year, and I love their mission and connection to faith. There are definitely not very many well-known stores out there that hold ties to faith and Christianity, so I love that this one gets to be mainstream.
I think it’s innovative of course in its Christian beliefs, but also in the way that they built their own aesthetic and made their store an experience for their customers rather than just another dress shop/boutique.
I have loved and followed Altar’d State for a while now but did not know much about the backstory nor how it started. I loved learning about the Christian values and beliefs that shaped this brand, as well as its name! I appreciate how this company puts so much value in creating a great experience for customers, as this is something that will make them successful in the long run. I also love how, while it is faith-based, all are welcome no matter who you are or what your background is. I think this company showcases how you can put your own passions and beliefs into company, yet make it a great, welcoming experience for all.