Red PaSH Magazine December 2013 | Page 16

Inspiration Floating on Faith Birmingham is a city whose history is filled with capitalized opportunities and good faith. New business owners Jake and Kristy Harvell are a couple that has embodied these traits in their personal and professional lives. In August 2013 the Harvells opened Washed by the Water, a Redeemed Children’s Boutique in Pelham. Washed by the Water is a Christian-based organization specializing in the sale of like-new children’s and maternity items. Their upscale boutique located at 140 Bowling Lane, Pelham, Alabama 35124 is full of natural light and is very warm and inviting. Jake, an accountant, and Kristy, a nurse by trade, have always dreamed of putting their faith into a business.  “We have really felt like the start of our business was something that the Lord had laid on our hearts,” said Kristy. “We just felt like we had the ability and opportunity to help many people.” When they moved to Birmingham almost eight years ago, the high-school sweethearts were impressed with Birmingham’s diversity and sense of community.  “There are so many people that can be reached in a relatively small area, and there are so many things to see and do right within our city,” commented Kristy. The couple sees their store as an avenue to reach the lost and hurting people of the world by providing people with high-quality, gently used clothing and items. “We had the support of family and friends,” stated Mr. Harvell when asked how Washed by the Water became a reality. “Planning and preparation have brought us to a place where we can start this business and by KIRSTEN EBERT prepare for the future. We sought out the support of people who could give us sound advice”, he continued. To insure the doors of Washed By The Water continue to stay open, the Harvells work parttime in their professional careers and hope to serve the Lord with their business. “Find what you're passionate about and let that lead you to find your purpose in life,” said Kristy. “Where your passion is, there your purpose will be also.” Whatever your passion may be, our city is a great place to marry it with purpose. There are small-business opportunities popping up everywhere in Birmingham, and Washed by the Water is an ideal example of pairing an opportunity with passion.