BEHIND THE BRAND:

While I wish I could sit down over coffee and chat with every person reading this, I know it’s not possible- so I’m dropping the briefest possible intro and version of my midlife story here and I would LOVE to hear from you!

My name is neither Elle nor Corinne- it’s Ruth, sorry to disappoint. I went to school for a bunch of years, have some letters and titles after my name that don’t mean much to me right now... I became a mother to Eloise (“Elle”) Corinne (2015) and Isaac (2018). With that, my world flipped (as did I, let’s be honest here).

I found myself suddenly reeling, wondering who I was as so many little things that had once mattered so much and held so much significance suddenly lost great value. I would look in the mirror at a stranger, I didn’t even know who I was anymore. It was so weird; I was living in the midst of this newfound greatest joy of my life staring into my baby’s eyes, yet I simultaneously found myself in a scary, lonely place. But you see, that’s exactly where God wanted me- because having my kids, (and deciding to become a SAHM), starting with my Elle Corinne, forced me to rediscover my identity and who I am, along with my passions; what makes me tick.

First and foremost, I’m a daughter of the King (Galatians 3:26). Our self-worth does not come in the form of worldly recognition, degrees, awards, job titles, etc... you are prized by the maker of the universe, and you are SO enough. It’s taken me a long time, but I am finally comfortable announcing my job title as simply “mom” when asked in public.

I credit my Elle Corinne with helping me find my Tribe. Yes, I capitalized that on purpose, English scholars. These are no ordinary friends. My friends are pure gold. Women who truly love each other, and each other’s kids. Friends who hug you even when you’re covered in your child’s puke just because “you needed a hug.” Pick up milk for you because your tired, pregnant brain forgot (even though they’re pregnant and tired too). Bagels appear on your porch when you’re sick; soup, tea, flowers... sweet cards that I’ll keep forever, and goodies just because. This is my Mom Tribe. Friends I prayed for my entire life. I’ve got these ladies’ backs and I know they’ve got mine.

Over the years, I unintentionally buried my creativity and my dream of designing was lost. Although I didn’t realize it then, the birth of my Eloise Corinne breathed new life into this dream. Three years of personal growth have passed and I’ve become a mother again. I am truly “me” again, or maybe version 2.0 because, you know, motherhood changes you. I’ve journaled, back splashed tile, painted furniture, and decorated cookies/cakes. And then there’s my baby- my Elle Corinne Design Co., LLC- I’ve spent hours dreaming, sketching, creating, making this company a reality. And now I am sharing it with you.

You’ll notice some styles have names. I told you about my Tribe. These are my people. My sisters. Their littles. When I create, I start with some sort of inspiration, and these ladies were the basis- whether it be their style, a favorite color, or something else that reminded me about the person. I hope you find a style you love, and please wear it knowing it was made with the utmost love and care.

You may not feel seen today- but I’m writing this to you, sister. I’m here to tell you that you are beautiful, unique, more than enough. And I’ve created a few pretty things to remind you of that.

Enjoy ~ xoxox

Ruth

(Special thanks also to my loving husband Steve, who for the past 10 years has always believed in me, cheered me on, and made me feel loved and seen. And above all, he has come along side me in this endeavor and believed in and supported my vision. Love you forever.)