Twelve years ago, I had an idea — a hope, really — that I could create something unique in the children’s clothing space…something I couldn’t find for myself as a new mom. I still remember designing my very first collection at a little desk I set up in my daughter’s nursery, with a baby in my belly and a two-year-old on my hip. I was so naïve to what I was stepping into, but overflowing with belief and passion for what I was creating.
Raising babies while building a business is not for the faint of heart. There were long nights, lots of tears, and many moments when my husband and I would look at each other and ask, “What are we doing?” We both owned our own (separate) businesses at the time and, as you can imagine, it was a lot to juggle.
But year after year, the business kept growing — and so did my confidence in my why. My babies grew up alongside the brand…and in so many ways, I did too. Our team has grown into the most incredible and capable group of people. Our wholesale community and online customers continue to amaze us with their support. Last year we opened our first retail stores in San Diego and New York, and through the Rylee + Cru Foundation we’ve been able to partner with so many meaningful nonprofit organizations. To date, we’ve had the honor of donating over $2.3 million to causes close to our hearts.
As I reflect on the journey that has led us here, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. For me, it always comes back to the people — especially my dad - my day 1 business partner and biggest hero, the family and friends who believed in us from the very start, the many hands that have come alongside us along the way, and this beautiful community of customers, both new and old. It started with a passion to create something beautiful, and it has grown into something far greater than I ever could have imagined.
Every now and then, I have moments where I am able to zoom out and view things from a wider lens — my life, this business, the years that brought us here — and I couldn’t be more thankful. Thankful for how this journey has shaped and stretched me, and for every up and down that has carried us to this moment.
As we head into this season of gratitude, I hope you find time to slow down, gather close with the people you love, and soak in the beauty that surrounds you.
From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving.
Thank you for being a part of our story.
