A LITTLE CHAT WITH KELLI MURRAY

A LITTLE CHAT WITH KELLI MURRAY

We know Kelli is an artist, but How did you start your clothing line, how did it come about?

I had years of experience working in the fashion industry prior to working as a freelance artist and illustrator. 

Rylee + Cru came about after I became a mom and starting doing some serious shopping for my kids.  I found it hard to find clothing that spoke to my personal aesthetic with colors and prints that I really loved.  I decided to merge my background in fashion with my illustration work and create a brand that I felt could be unique in the baby boutique market.  I partnered with my dad who has 30+ years in the apparel industry and we just ran with the idea and launched it!

 

Your brand is named after your 2 kids. We know you had another baby girl. Will she be incorporated in the brand name?

Quincy Mae was born on August 5th, so about 10 weeks ago!!

No, she won’t be incorporated in the Rylee + Cru brand name…but there may or may not be a NEW brand popping up in the future! ;)

 

How was it to go through a pregnancy and newborn stage as such a busy woman.

Juggling my home/work life is definitely my biggest challenge and finding that balance is something I am constantly striving for.  

Thankfully, I have a very understanding husband who can make his schedule flexible.

My mom also helps a ton, so it for sure takes a group effort to pull it off! 

Your brand has  so quickly become a favorite. Why do you think so?

I am very thankful for the way the industry has accepted Rylee + Cru.

I think we offer something that is easy for a buyer to relate to.

Our colors are soft and neutral, my art is simple and I think brings about a feeling of innocence and joy.

The styles are for everyday wearing and are easily washed and comfortable to wear. 

What inspires you?

My kids more than anything else.

I hope Rylee + Cru always reflects the joy and innocence that we learn from our children.

I'm also inspired by nature and animals and the nostalgia that comes from childhood memories of my own.

 Tell us about your personal style

I'd say it's a mix of classic, feminine and laid back bohemian.  I am definitely drawn to muted earthy colors and prefer simplicity in my wardrobe (and home!) 

What does a regular day look like in the Murray house???

What is a regular day? I don’t think I have any of those!

I usually stay up late, so I am prone to sleeping in the morning if at all possible!

My husband Sam (bless his heart), usually has early morning duty and lets me stumble out of bed a little later.

Rylee is now in school so I help get her ready and off to school by 8.

I have a nanny a few days a week to help with Cru.

My mom also helps a lot, especially now with Quincy!

So between all of us we schedule each day for drop offs, pick-ups, feedings and nap times!

No two days are the same right now, so we all keep things pretty flexible.

I can usually get 3 full days of work in each week and then fill in with half days of grab hours here and there on other days.

It is tough to keep up sometimes. But time flies and I do my best to enjoy each little moment of each day the best I can.

I feel super blessed to have such an amazing family that supports the creative side of my life.  It's a dream job for sure

I had years of experience working in the fashion industry prior to working as a freelance artist and illustrator. 

Rylee + Cru came about after I became a mom and starting doing some serious shopping for my kids.  I found it hard to find clothing that spoke to my personal aesthetic with colors and prints that I really loved.  I decided to merge my background in fashion with my illustration work and create a brand that I felt could be unique in the baby boutique market.  I partnered with my dad who has 30+ years in the apparel industry and we just ran with the idea and launched it!

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