From Hand-Knit Beginnings to a Beloved Brand Solmate Socks began with a simple yet delightful idea—creating colorful, mismatched socks that bring joy to those who wear them. This idea was the brainchild of Marianne Wakerlin, a life-long textile artist with a passion for knitting and an aversion to repetition. For over 20 years, Marianne hand-knit vibrant socks, always ensuring that no two pairs were exactly alike. She would knit one sock, then challenge herself to create a coordinating but different companion, resulting in beautifully mismatched pairs that were eagerly received by friends and family. Crafting a Unique Identity Marianne's innovative approach to sock design quickly set Solmate Socks apart from other brands. Her commitment to using high-quality materials and her eye for bold, playful color combinations created a distinctive product that stood out in the market. The mismatched nature of the socks became a hallmark of the brand, symbolizing individuality and the joy of embracing one's unique style. From Spare Bedroom to Thriving Business Marianne founded Solmate Socks in 2000 as a solo entrepreneur, working out of a spare bedroom in her Vermont home. The business quickly gained a loyal following, thanks to the distinctive designs and high-quality craftsmanship of the socks. As demand grew, so did the need for help. Enter Lisa Flood, Marianne's daughter-in-law, a sock lover and small business enthusiast with a background in marketing and e-commerce and a shared passion for knitting and textile arts. Lisa's expertise was instrumental in expanding Solmate Socks' reach and growing the business. A Family Legacy Continues In 2014, Marianne retired, and Lisa, along with her husband Randy, purchased the business. With Lisa at the helm of design, Solmate Socks has continued to thrive, never losing sight of its small business roots and commitment to handmade quality. The Heart and Soul of Solmate Socks Today, Lisa Flood is the creative force behind Solmate Socks, designing each product with the same passion and creativity that Marianne instilled from the beginning. Lisa draws inspiration from nature, colors, and patterns, creating stitch-by-stitch masterpieces that are then brought to life on knitting machines and hand-finished with care. Under her leadership, Solmate Socks has maintained its reputation for crafting beautiful, mismatched socks and accessories that brighten the lives of their wearers. Join us in celebrating the rich many decades long history of Solmate Socks, from Marianne Wakerlin's original hand-knit creations to the innovative designs of Lisa Flood. Our journey is a testament to the power of creativity, family, and the joy of wearing something uniquely wonderful.
