Shop Local - Wild + Rae
By: Bethany Myers
Owner and Designer Vanessa Whitby recently transformed her simple passion project into an inspirational business known as Wild + Rae. The beautiful brand represents the power of determination and the unexplainable bond between a mother and her daughter.
About the Business
Wild + Rae originated with Vanessa’s initial intention to create timeless dresses for her daughter with the hope that they could one day be cherished by generations to come. What started as a personal endeavor evolved into something beyond her wildest dreams.
Vanessa's daughter, Harlow Rae, has played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of Wild + Rae. “Bringing my vision to life with my daughter by my side is priceless. Harlow shares her opinion on every detail and comes up with amazing ideas!” shares Vanessa. Whether it's a special occasion, birthday, or holiday, Vanessa and her daughter want every girl to feel unique in what she wears. With a goal to instill a sense of wonder and imagination in young girls, the brand provides a gossip-worthy collection of dresses designed to create lasting memories. Their designs burst with bright colors, daises, sparkles, tulle, and the playful spirit of childhood.
“As a single mom, this business has helped to show my daughter that women are capable, brilliant, and can do anything. I want to show Harlow that dreams do come true, even outside of fairy tales.”
What’s Unique About the Business
What sets Wild + Rae apart from similar businesses is its commitment to preserving the joy of childhood. The brand believes kids should be allowed to be young, wild and free for as long as possible. If that means wearing a princess party dress every day, then so be it.
Business Philosophy
“We value the bond between a mother and child above anything else and every piece is designed with building those memories in mind,” says Vanessa.
Milestones
One of the most recent milestones for Wild + Rae was the development of a line of Cowgirl Boots. The process took hard work over the span of a year, but the result is an adorable boot design that’s not only stylish but also extremely comfortable. The response from customers during the pre-sales launch in August was overwhelmingly positive, setting the stage for an exciting new collection.
Message to the Community
Vanessa's message to the community is clear: Wild + Rae is more than just a business; it symbolizes resilience, setting an example for her daughter and the community. Vanessa wants every girl who shops with Wild + Rae to know that they can achieve anything they set their mind to. In addition, Wild + Rae also gives back to the community by donating a portion of proceeds toward local initiatives that uplift and empower young girls, fostering a cycle of support and growth.
More About the Business Owner
Vanessa grew up in Dana Point and has always been passionate about fashion. She spent many years in the apparel industry before starting her own business. Currently, she enjoys living in Newport Beach, where she relocated just a year ago from Laguna Beach. Outside of business, Vanessa enjoys traveling, working out, and spending time near the ocean. Above all, she values spending quality time with her daughter, family, and friends whenever possible.
Shop Wild + Rae
