Today we’d like to introduce you to Raeannah Sims.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Raeannah. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Throughout my childhood I loved everything about fashion. My dream was to be a model. After turning 18 I followed that dream! A few years went by and I learned so much about the fashion industry. I no longer wanted to model I wanted to be the one to make the garments. Arrae Designs was born! With no sewing experience and no idea where to start my first pieces were AWFUL! As the months rolled by I fell deeper in love with creating something so beautiful. The first time providing my garments for a photoshoot, I was in complete awe. I knew then this is truly what I want to do! I’ve made simple garments, swimwear, and gowns. Arrae Designs journey has just begun, so stay tuned!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The biggest struggle I face is finding time to create. Living in Houston at 22 years old, life moves fast. I’m always on the go during the day, so I stay up all night creating my garments. It’s all worth it when the finished product is sitting there and I feel accomplished. My biggest piece of advice I can give someone who is starting any journey is to NEVER GIVE UP! All those sleepless nights, self-doubting moments, and wallets screaming stop, WILL PAY OFF! Being a creative person is a gift, don’t waste it. Whatever your journey may be I support you.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Arrae Designs story. Tell us more about the business.
I am a designer! I’ve created anything from swimsuits to gowns. I wouldn’t say I specialize in any particular style yet. One thing that sets me apart is having never used a pattern. Any designers out there know how crazy that may sound. Having no one to teach me, I figured I would be better off free handing everything. However, I do create my own patterns for garments I duplicate.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
If you’re able to find a mentor for the journey you’re on, I suggest you take advantage of that! Ask as many questions you can. Constantly watch and take notes. Learn as much from someone who is willing to teach you. I haven’t been so lucky to find the right human mentor but YouTube is truly a blessing. The internet can be so helpful to someone with a ton of questions and no mentor to ask.
Contact Info:
- Email: raeannah24@yahoo.com
- Instagram: @Arrae_designs
- Facebook: Arrae Designs
Image Credit:
Photographer: Letskreat Photography @letskreat.photography
Models: Denise Garcia @nenna_001 , Savannah Sadowski @savybb_ , Jessica @sweet.sometymes , and myself (Raeannah Sims).
Designer: All pieces shown are made by me (Arrae Designs).
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
