Bruce Heerema and Mark De Cook were "men's men," one a tackle, the other a linebacker, on the Central College (Iowa) football squad of the early 1960s. Close friends since grade school, they were an unlikely pair of lace importers.

But in November 1983, the two, joined by their first employee Dave Heinen, founded Heritage Imports (which became Heritage Lace Inc. in 1998). Their lack of lace expertise was balanced by a background of life and business experience -- forty combined years of retail and sales management -- as well as determination, ingenuity, a little luck and a lot of hard work.

The firm began by importing and marketing European curtain lace in bolts, and soon found a niche serving the needs of small, independent specialty retailers. With a strong commitment to quality and service, Heritage offered unique products which were readily accepted by consumers, and distribution throughout North America came quickly. In the early 1990s, the company expanded into ready-made lace curtains and table accessories manufactured by contract mills in the U.S.

The line has grown into a broad collection of home décor products -- window treatments, table textiles and wall décor -- as well as lace gift specialties. All are original and exclusive, designed by Heritage and produced in its own factory. What began so modestly in 1983 is now an integrated home décor manufacturer and marketer with production facilities in Oxford North Carolina, and Pella, Iowa.

Things have changed over time at Heritage Lace. Bruce Heerema and Mark De Cook have retired and the first employee, Dave Heinen, now is President and CEO. The line continues to expand, the commitment to quality and service is as strong as ever, and Heritage is recognized for innovation and leadership in its industry.

Heritage Lace began with friendship and grew with vision -- and both are alive and well today.