Patch Blog: The Inspirational Story Behind Lillibands and LilliWear

Jen Newman falls into the category of “someone you should know, if you don’t already.”

The gregarious Avondale Estates resident and mom-preneur is founder of two adorable children’s businesses -- LilliWear and Lillibands. Featuring designs with hip, fun, and funky fabrics, both lines are hugely popular among fashionable little girls, tweens, teens, and ladies throughout the Metro Atlanta area.

Jen’s pieces are distinctive and instantly recognizable, which is certainly a plus.

However, to truly appreciate Jen and her businesses, you really need to know the whole story… so here goes.

Jen’s brother died of cancer when he was 15. She remembered visiting him in the hospital and seeing all of the little girls with bows taped to their heads. Barrettes and traditional headbands didn’t cut it for children undergoing chemo.

Jen’s wheels started turning, and before she knew it, she had whipped up the ultimate, comfortable, “ouch-free” headband. She quickly collected colorful fabrics and started sewing like crazy.

The result was the first Lilliband (named after her daughter Lilly, who also couldn’t keep anything in her hair). Jen swiftly sewed 100 Lillibands and donated them all to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

As Jen says, “Lillibands don't hurt the children’s heads, and they can be washed and made sterile, which is very important. Plus, they make them feel pretty!”   

Today, Jen’s Lillicares program is making a difference in the daily lives of children who are fighting cancer and other serious diseases. Each year, Jen makes an annual delivery of Lillibands to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta (Egelston and Scottish Rite Children's Hospitals). Local Avondale Estates children also participate and help with the distribution.

“My brother Ret asked our family to give back and help children battling these terrible diseases,” added Jen. “This is my attempt to do just that in his memory.” 

For more information on where to find Jen’s popular Lillibands, best-selling “Messy Girl” dress, monogrammed St. Thomas Moore and The Museum School Lillibands, and more, visit www.lillibands.com.