We're thrilled to introduce the next instalment in our series of profiles on inspirational creative women. This week we're featuring Rebecca Burrow. Bec is a model and the founder of the gorgeous kids label Mini Marley, mum to Bella and Robbie and wife of retired pro surfer Taj Burrow.
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Tell us about your professional journey - highlights, learnings, mentors.
I feel like I have been so lucky to fall into things throughout my professional career. I'm very open minded, I've never been afraid to ask questions or put myself out there to try new things or meet new people, and I think this has helped me tremendously within the different workplaces I have been in. I never pictured myself to be in my current role of owning a children’s clothing business, it really seemed to come to me organically and I am lucky to have best friends who have a women’s label who offer me professional help when I’m in need. Something I have learnt is that the biggest lessons and growth come from the biggest trials and tribulations of business. There will always be hurdles throughout your career, but it is how you learn to manage them and deal with them that is really important.
Describe your creative process.
I am really inspired by nostalgic moments from my childhood. I love vintage shapes with a new modern feel. When it's time for the design process of my collections to start I often look at old photo albums, and I have a stack of vintage pieces that I have found throughout my travels that I make reference to but bring them new life.
Bec's daughter Bella modelling the gorgeous new collection from Mini Marley
What are you working on right now, personally and professionally?
Right now I feel like I am going through a big period of growth. We have recently welcomed a new family member, a little girl named Robbie, so I am navigating life as a mother of two. The current state of the world has also really inspired some new levels of learning for me. I have been watching a lot of films and doing a lot of reading to learn more about the indigenous community in Australia. I want to learn more about the truth of Australian history, and the current standing of the indigenous communities in our country, and how we can help to close the gap between the white privilege we encounter daily and acknowledge and celebrate our first nations people.
Favourite self care ritual/s to unwind?
Going for a walk and listening to a really good playlist, reformer pilates and a face mask in the bathtub.
Favourite travel experience/s?
One of my favourite travel memories is riding bikes in a small coastal town in the south of France with my husband. It was when we were first together (pre kids) and it was like we didn’t have a worry in the world. Riding from restaurants to bars and to the beach and back.
I also had a girls trip to Paris a couple of years ago with 6 of my best friends. It was during Paris Fashion Week so there was so much hype around the city. Looking around at the street style was so fascinating, and we stayed at the Ritz Paris which was right in the thick of the glitz and glam. I also did a bridal fitting and found my dream wedding dress while we were there so it was a very special moment in time.
We recently travelled to Namotu in Fiji which is a private island off of Nadi. It was one of the best family trips we have ever had. The most relaxing place I have ever been to. Once you are on the island you don’t ever have to leave (unless you want to get on a boat to surf or fish). Pristine ocean, amazing snorkelling and I even managed to get my pregnant body onto a stand up paddle board to go around the island. The staff feel like family, the food is incredible. They catch fresh fish and serve it straight to your plate. Absolute bliss!
Bec's snaps from Namotu, Fiji.
What makes you feel most alive?
Freedom of choice and the ability to love and love deeply.
What are you looking forward to?
Embracing my sister and best friends who live over the other side of the country.
Who or what is inspiring you right now?
The generosity and power of people. Modern movements which come from caring about others when it does not directly effect you. There is a big shift that is happening in the world right now. Growth from uncomfortable places is the most powerful growth that can happen.
Insider WA tips?
There’s beauty in every corner of the southwest. My insider tip is to travel down here with a car that is able to go off road and bring a designated driver or organise someone to drive you around for the day. You can follow your nose going from winery to winery and grab some take away’s to take to the local beaches where you can often find a little slice of heaven without another soul on it.
Summer is our favourite season, what’s a song, taste and place that reminds you of summer?
• Song: Hole - Malibu
• Taste: Aperol Spritz and an oyster plate
• Place: Eagle Bay, Western Australia
Biggest take away from the year?
There is beauty in slowing down. We are often stuck like mice on a wheel in the hustle and bustle of life. It is good to stop every now and then, and take a step back to realise what you are aiming for. To realise what really matters to you, down to the core. To find beauty in simplicity, and really taking the time to enjoy life's little moments because they are so fleeting and they pass by so quickly if you let them.