Emily Hikade transitioned from a CIA officer to the founder and CEO of Petite Plume, a luxury sleepwear brand, in 2015. After over a decade with the CIA, she made the bold choice to focus more on family following a life-altering incident on a plane. With three young boys at home, Emily recognized the need for a safer career path, and now, she’s the proud mother of four boys while leading her successful company.
Petite Plume has been thriving since its inception, doubling its revenue year after year and surpassing $10 million in 2022. The brand's presence has expanded to over 400 retailers across the United States, including notable names like Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Celebrities and even the Royal Family have been spotted in Petite Plume pajamas, making them a sought-after item among fans.
Just a year after launching, Emily experienced a stroke of luck when a now-famous image surfaced of Prince George wearing Petite Plume pajamas while meeting President Obama. “That was a serendipitous moment,” she reflects, adding that it couldn't have come at a more opportune time.
That event propelled the brand into the spotlight, and Emily embraced her new role as a busy CEO. She credits her CIA experience for equipping her with the necessary skills and patience to balance motherhood and business. Furthermore, she shares her reasoning for opting out of external funding, expressing satisfaction with that choice. “I feel fortunate,” she notes.
Tune in to discover Emily's insights on building Petite Plume, her major career shift, and her advice for achieving success regardless of life's challenges.
