The Good Ugly Sweater Co.

The Good Ugly Sweater Co. was born from a simple idea, a kind heart, and a 10-year-old girl with a big dream to make the world a kinder place.

Our founder, Samantha, is a 4th grader with an extraordinary passion for helping others. From the time she was little, her natural instinct was to lift others up—whether it was supporting kids at school, taking part in community service, or finding ways to make everyone feel included.

In 4th grade, Samantha decided to run for Chairman of her school. Her mission was clear: raise money for student activities and create kindness and inclusivity programs so every child felt welcome. To promote her campaign, she asked her dad—who works in the apparel business—to make her a fun ugly sweater that said “Vote for Samantha.”

Her speech included a lighthearted joke: “If you vote for me, I’ll give you a sweater!” She meant it as a joke… but her classmates didn’t. Kids began approaching her saying they voted for her—and asking for their sweater!

Seeing the excitement and realizing how much kids loved the sweaters, Samantha had a bigger idea. She went back to her dad and asked if they could make sweaters for the whole school as a fundraiser, knowing her school needed money for student programs and activities. Her dad agreed immediately—Samantha and her father have always shared a close bond, and he believed in her vision from day one.

What started as a small school fundraiser quickly grew into something extraordinary. With minimal effort, the ugly sweaters and tees raised over $7,500—money that directly supported school activities and student initiatives. Samantha saw firsthand how powerful one idea could be… and she wanted to take it further.

She began dreaming bigger—a national movement that would help schools raise money while also giving back to meaningful causes. She selected a charity that touched her heart: 

As part of this commitment, The Good Ugly Sweater Co. donates $1 to the organization for every sweater sold.

She also wanted to make sure fundraising was truly accessible and beneficial for schools. So she convinced her dad to price the sweaters at $14.95 wholesale so schools could offer them at $29.90—keeping them affordable for families while providing a strong profit margin to support school programs.

A win-win-win for students, schools, and charitable causes.

Today, Samantha is still actively involved in every part of the company—from product ideas to giving decisions to the overall direction of the brand. Her dad continues to serve as her mentor, supporting her vision and helping her bring kindness to classrooms across the country.

The Good Ugly Sweater Co. is more than apparel—it’s a mission led by a child with a heart for others, a dream for kindness, and a belief that even the smallest ideas can make a big difference.

Together, we’re helping schools raise funds, supporting charities that matter, and proving that generosity never goes out of style.