We were lucky to catch up with Miss Rae recently and have shared our conversation below.

Miss, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Do you wish you had started sooner?

If I could go back in time, I wouldn’t start sooner or later—I would start exactly when I did. Every part of my journey, including the struggles, the risks, and even the uncertainty, played a role in shaping the artist and business owner I am today.

Backstory—When I Started & Where I Was in Life/Career

I started Rae-alistic Creations in 2018, right in my kitchen. But not in the warm, cozy sense of a kitchen where meals are made—mine wasn’t a functioning kitchen at all. Every single cupboard, drawer, and even my pantry was packed with art supplies—except for one, which I kept for dishes. My kitchen table became my first real workspace, and to this day, it’s still covered in paint. That table holds the history of where I started and how much I poured into this.

Career-wise, I was doing practical work in industries that didn’t fulfill me. I had experience managing businesses, leading teams, and making sure everything ran smoothly, but none of it felt like mine. I was great at what I did, but I was deeply depressed. I had spent years pouring my time and energy into stability, but stability alone wasn’t making me happy. Choosing to do what I love was terrifying because, unlike a traditional job, there was no guaranteed paycheck, no benefits, no structured path forward. It was just me, my art, and a decision—bet on myself, or stay in a life that wasn’t feeding my soul.

What Would Have Changed If I Started Sooner?

If I had started sooner, I might have had more time to refine my craft, but I wouldn’t have had the same level of discipline, focus, and strategic execution that I have now. Running a creative business requires more structure than anything else I’ve ever done. It’s not just about making art—it’s about managing operations, marketing, sales, client relations, and expansion, all at the same time.

I’ve always been disciplined, but building Rae-alistic Creations required me to develop an entirely new level of precision. There’s no external structure holding this together—it’s me. Every success is the direct result of how efficiently I move, how well I strategize, and how relentlessly I show up. If I had started too early, I might not have had the business acumen and leadership skills necessary to scale it at this level.

At the same time, my growth hasn’t been limited to just being a business owner. Since 2018, I’ve also been developing storytelling through modeling. Unlike traditional models who get signed to agencies, I built my portfolio entirely on my own—designing and directing most of my own photo shoots, crafting the creative vision, and curating the looks and concepts myself. I took control of my own narrative, using modeling as another extension of my artistry.

That independence paid off. Since 2018, I’ve had the opportunity to work with brands in Colorado, LA, and New York, and my work has even been published internationally in the UK, as well as in publications across the U.S. Storytelling through modeling is something I continue to grow in, and I’m more confident in it now than ever. I’m truly excited about the skills I’ve developed along the way and where this creative avenue will continue to take me.

What Would Have Changed If I Started Later?

If I had started later, I think I would have regretted it. The longer you wait, the more reasons you find to keep waiting. Had I delayed taking this leap, I might have convinced myself that the timing was never right, that it was too risky, that I needed more savings, more experience, more proof that I could succeed. And the truth is—you never feel fully ready.

Starting when I did forced me to figure things out as I went. It made me resourceful, adaptable, and fearless in a way that I don’t think I would have been if I had waited for “perfect timing.” And beyond that, starting when I did allowed me to build something authentic—not just a business, but a career that reflects who I am.

Looking Back—Would I Change the Timing?

No. I started at the exact right time—the moment when I was willing to be afraid and do it anyway. Every risk, every challenge, and every lesson along the way has shaped Rae-alistic Creations into what it is now.

The way I work has evolved, but my table is still covered in paint. I keep it that way on purpose. It’s a reminder of where I started, of the sacrifices I made to build this, and of the fact that I never let a lack of space, time, or certainty stop me from creating.

I look back at that version of me—sitting at my kitchen table, surrounded by paint and paper, trying to figure out if this could really work—and I wish she knew what I know now: that she was already building something incredible. That every risk, every long night, and every doubt would eventually lead her here.

If I could tell my past self anything, it wouldn’t be to start earlier or wait until later. It would simply be this: You were always capable of doing this, and you were never asking for too much by wanting more.

Miss, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Introducing Rae-alistic Creations: A Brand Rooted in Art, Storytelling, and Innovation

I am Rae, the founder of Rae-alistic Creations, a brand that blends art, storytelling, and design in a way that’s deeply personal yet universally impactful. My work is rooted in mixed media art, creative direction, and visual storytelling, allowing me to bring unique perspectives to both fine art and commercial creative work.

How I Got Into This Industry

My journey into this industry wasn’t traditional—I wasn’t handed opportunities, I created them. Instead of waiting for permission to pursue art professionally, I took the initiative to teach myself, experiment, and build something entirely my own. What started with personal projects and commissions expanded into a full-fledged business where I create original artwork, customized commissions, and curated visual experiences.

Beyond painting and design, my ability to storytell through different creative disciplines has helped me build an international portfolio. I have designed and directed my own photo shoots, which led to brand collaborations and published modeling work in the U.S. and internationally.

What I Offer & The Problems I Solve

I provide custom, one-of-a-kind art pieces, creative direction for photo shoots and brand visuals, and unique, immersive designs for clients looking for something beyond the ordinary. Whether it’s a commissioned painting, a visually compelling brand aesthetic, or conceptual storytelling through images, my work is always thoughtfully crafted, detail-oriented, and emotionally engaging.

I also offer art-driven storytelling for brands and individuals who want their visuals to have depth and originality. Many clients come to me because they feel like their brand or creative vision is missing something, and I help bring their ideas to life in a way that feels authentic and powerful.

What Sets Me Apart
• Authenticity & Personalization – My work is never generic. Every piece, whether art, photography, or branding, is custom-built to reflect the vision and emotion behind it.
• A Multi-Disciplinary Approach – I don’t just paint. I design, model, create, and curate, allowing me to bring a holistic creative perspective to everything I do.
• A Self-Made Career Path – I built this business from the ground up, without an agency, a team, or a pre-made blueprint. Every milestone has been the result of my own dedication and ability to adapt, strategize, and create opportunities for myself.
• Limitless Expansion – My business isn’t limited to one lane. I evolve constantly, incorporating new skills and avenues into my work, ensuring that I always bring fresh ideas to the table.

How I Push Myself Beyond My Comfort Zone

For me, growth isn’t optional—it’s a necessity. I believe that staying in your comfort zone is the fastest way to stagnate, and I refuse to let that happen. I am constantly challenging myself to expand in new ways, both personally and professionally.

One of the biggest ways I do this is through solo travel. I take vacations by myself because I believe there’s something powerful about navigating new places alone. Traveling alone forces you to trust yourself, adapt quickly, and embrace the unknown—just like in art and business.

In my free time, you’ll find me reading, writing, and performing stand-up comedy. Each of these passions challenges me in a different way—reading expands my perspective, writing refines my storytelling, and comedy pushes me to be vulnerable in front of an audience. Getting on stage isn’t easy, but I love pushing myself to find humor in life’s experiences and connect with people through laughter.

What I’m Most Proud Of

What I’ve built is bigger than just a business—it’s a living, evolving testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and self-belief. I’m proud that I’ve stayed true to my artistic voice while continuously leveling up, and that my work has not only been recognized internationally but also resonates deeply with the people who experience it.

What I Want People to Know About My Work & Brand
• I don’t create for the sake of creating—I create to connect. Every project I take on is intentional, meaningful, and built with passion.
• I am constantly evolving. If you’ve seen my work before, expect something new the next time. Growth is at the core of everything I do.
• My art is a reflection of deep storytelling. Whether it’s a piece hanging in someone’s home, a photoshoot I’ve designed, or a creative collaboration, my work is meant to evoke emotion and inspire thought.
• Rae-alistic Creations is more than just an art brand—it’s an experience. Every project is infused with layers of meaning, intention, and originality.

This brand is my life’s work, and every person who engages with it—whether as a client, collaborator, or supporter—is part of its ongoing story. ‘Why be realistic when you can be Rae-alistic’

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

I am a recovering people pleaser. I spent years believing that keeping the peace meant sacrificing my own needs. That being liked was more important than being authentic. That if I said no, set a boundary, or refused to accommodate someone, I was being difficult—or worse, unlovable. But here’s what I’ve learned: what you permit, you inevitably promote.

That phrase changed everything for me. The way people treat you is, in part, a reflection of what you allow. If you keep making yourself small to fit into someone else’s expectations, don’t be surprised when you disappear. If you let people drain you, they won’t stop until there’s nothing left. And if you refuse to prioritize yourself, don’t expect anyone else to.

This lesson has reshaped every part of my life. I now have boundaries in my friendships, my business, my creative work, my motherhood, and my relationships. And the most surprising part? There’s way more harmony in my life now than when I was bending over backward to keep people happy.

Because here’s the truth: If you prioritize being liked over being authentic, you’ll wake up one day surrounded by the wrong people, wondering why there’s so much disharmony. But when you lead with authenticity, you attract the right audience from the start. Whether it’s in art, business, comedy, or relationships, the right people don’t need you to shrink. They just need you to show up as you really are.

Unlearning people-pleasing wasn’t easy, but I can say with absolute certainty that I wouldn’t be the artist, business owner, mother, or friend, I am today if I hadn’t done the work to change it. Now, I operate with clarity, self-respect, and a deep understanding that my worth was never tied to how much I could sacrifice for others.

And the best part? The right people—the ones who genuinely align with who you are—don’t leave when you set boundaries. They just start showing up better.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Are There Any Books, Videos, Essays, or Other Resources That Have Significantly Impacted Your Management and Entrepreneurial Thinking and Philosophy?

I love this question. This is my favorite question I’ve ever been asked by a magazine.

Trying to sum up the books that have shaped me is nearly impossible because reading, philosophy, and expanding my mind are a part of my daily life. But if I had to choose, these are the books I revisit the most, the ones that have completely shifted my thinking and approach to life and business.

📖 The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz – Taught me the power of clarity and self-awareness in both business and life. The agreements—Be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best—are now non-negotiable standards in how I handle everything from client interactions to personal boundaries.

📖 Atomic Habits by James Clear – Running a business (especially as a creative) isn’t about huge, dramatic moves—it’s about consistency and small, intentional actions that compound over time. This book reinforced the idea that your success isn’t built on motivation—it’s built on your habits. The systems I’ve developed to balance my creativity with my structure all stem from this philosophy.

📖 The Creative Act by Rick Rubin – This book completely changed my mind. It unlocked a new way of thinking about creativity—not as something you “do,” but as something you live, breathe, and cultivate. Rick Rubin’s approach made me realize that being an artist isn’t just about producing—it’s about constantly evolving, exploring, and letting creativity exist as its own force. This book shaped how I allow inspiration to flow into my work without forcing it.

📖 Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown – Remains one of my top 3 favorite books of all time. She helped me mature and move through life with more emotional intelligence and self-awareness. Brené Brown’s wisdom has taught me how to navigate emotions, relationships, and leadership with clarity and vulnerability. The ability to identify and process emotions is a skill most people overlook, but it’s essential to both personal and entrepreneurial success.

📖 Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss – Mastering negotiation is a non-negotiable skill, and this book taught me how to approach conversations with strategy, confidence, and control. Whether I’m negotiating in business or everyday life, Chris Voss’ techniques have helped me become a stronger communicator and a more effective decision-maker.

📖 The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest – Struggling with imposter syndrome is a thing of the past thanks to Brianna’s insights. It forced me to confront the ways I was standing in my own way, self-sabotaging, and allowing limiting beliefs to dictate my potential. The concept that you are both the obstacle and the solution resonated with me deeply, and it reshaped the way I approach growth, fear, and the uncomfortable but necessary work of evolving.

📖 The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga – This book is a must read, I could talk about it all day. In short, they taught me that not everyone is going to understand your choices, and that’s okay. It also introduced me to the idea that past experiences don’t define you unless you let them. This mindset has allowed me to move boldly in my business, set boundaries, and prioritize what aligns with my vision—without feeling the need to justify it to others.

📖 The 12 Universal Laws & the Teachings of Alan Watts & Jerry Flowers – My entrepreneurial and spiritual thinking is deeply rooted in philosophy and universal principles. I listen to Alan Watts and Jerry Flowers consistently, depending on the day, because their perspectives help me stay grounded, expand my consciousness, and remind me that success is just as much about alignment as it is about action.

📖 Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg – I am genuinely a better writer thanks to Mrs.Goldberg. She radically transformed the way I approach writing, not just as a skill but as a practice. It made writing feel like a meditation, a discipline, and an intuitive art all at once. Whether I’m writing for creativity, comedy, clarity, or catharsis, this book reminded me that the process is just as important as the final product.

📖 The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss – Every business owner should read this at least once in their lives because Tim completely changed how I view time, productivity, and work-life balance. It forced me to rethink the way I structure my time, delegate tasks, and prioritize what actually moves my goals forward. The biggest lesson? Work smarter, not harder—because efficiency is just as powerful as effort.

The Impact of These Resources on My Life & Work

I don’t just read or listen—I absorb, apply, and integrate these lessons into every part of my life. These books have influenced how I create, how I lead, how I handle business, and how I navigate my relationships. They’ve taught me that success is about clarity, consistency, and self-trust.

If I had to sum it up in just a few books, this is my list. But in reality, I am constantly learning, expanding, and refining my philosophy. Because the moment you think you’ve learned it all, you stop growing—and I don’t ever plan to stop.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rae-alistic.com
• Instagram: @rae.alistic
• Linkedin: Miss Rae
• Other: I also own the business www.epochalgrace.com

Image Credits

MercedesLenzPhotography