Lori Watson is the innovative CEO and second-generation owner of The Flag Lady, a family-founded business built on a passion for quality craftsmanship and exceptional service. Established in 1980 by her mother, Mary Leavitt, The Flag Lady has become a trusted name in American-made flags. After working alongside her mother for over three decades, Lori assumed leadership in 2017, infusing the business with fresh branding, digital expansion, and on-site manufacturing capabilities.
Under Lori’s visionary guidance, The Flag Lady has diversified into trade show products, expanded its sales channels, and reinforced its commitment to delivering American made products. The company's legacy lives on through Lori's dedication to preserving her mother’s foundational values while embracing innovation to serve both residential and corporate customers.
A recognized leader in the flag industry, Lori is the Past President of the National Flag Dealers Association (NIFDA) and an active member of the Flag Manufacturers Association of America (FMAA), where she champions sourcing all U.S. flag components domestically. Her commitment to community and patriotism is further demonstrated through involvement with organizations such as BC4C, Gold Star Mothers, and Project Shiloh.
Lori earned her degree from The Ohio State University and is a graduate of the Emerging Leaders USA program, a prestigious initiative by the Small Business Administration.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Lori enjoys swimming, singing, reading, and entertaining friends and family. Above all, she treasures time spent with her family, finding joy and inspiration in her grandchildren, who represent the next chapter of her family’s story.