We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Taylor Rains. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Taylor below.
Taylor, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental health? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
Hello! My name is Taylor Rains, and I am so honored to be featured for a third time in a Voyage interview!
The creative space has always been more than just an outlet for me, whether through music, ministry, fashion, or social media…my intention is always to encourage, inspire, and bring a little extra sunshine wherever I can. So if you’re reading this, I hope you leave feeling one of those things I listed above. 🙂
Through a series of events, life fell to pieces, and then fell right into place. I’ll tell you the story.
My husband Austin is the love of my life, and my very best friend. He and I have a precious, vibrant little boy named Lincoln and a fur-baby, Remi.
Since we met, Austin and I have always done full-time ministry together. In addition to that, I am a super creative person, and have found that I’m happiest when I have creative outlets! I gravitate the most to modeling, music, content creation, and fashion.
I have partnered with well-known brands such as DisneyXBroadway, Kendra Scott, Dillard’s, Gerber, and more, have written and released multiple songs, am a signed model, influencer, and manage multiple social media accounts through my digital marketing company as well. God truly blessed what started as a fun hobby to grow into thriving businesses.
Things took a turn in 2022 when I began intensive therapy. With the guidance of my trauma informed therapist, I worked through extremely traumatic past events, and was professionally diagnosed with CPTSD. I began learning tools to navigate the healing process. It was the hardest thing my husband and I have ever gone through.
Throughout the entire experience, I was able to learn so much about trauma, the healing process, and how to leverage my creativity to support my family and others.
I specifically created a line of clothing to support women and children who have endured sex trafficking. I am able to support my family and businesses through social media management and content creation!
Now, I have learned the true meaning of total surrender to God, knowing that He really does work ALL things for the good of those who love Him, and the beauty of community. So often, people talk about their trauma but never about the other side of it. Healing, happiness, love, contentment, forgiveness, success…they’re all possible with God. Regardless of your story.
It’s been such an honor to bring joy and hope to people through the fun creative outlets I have, and now through my story. To support, connect with and encourage people through what started as creative outlets has truly been a dream.
Follow along on my social channels, and visit taylorrains.com to shop my boutique, book me for influencing collaborations, and request digital marketing services.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I created a digital marketing company called The Social Collective, where I am able to share the best of Wichita and beyond. Additionally, I have released music, model, and am a content creator and influencer.
What I find the most special about my career is how I never feel put in a box! I am able to do a little of everything that I love without feeling stuck in an office. I am able to network and meet people all the time, function in multiple creative facets, and explore the best Wichita has to offer. It’s also a joy of mine to be able to showcase incredible people and businesses through managing their social media platforms and sharing them on mine as well.
Be expecting some fun clothing launches and fun announcements regarding exciting expansions!! Follow me on socials for more.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The three qualities that have been the most impactful in my journey have been humility, joy, and maintaining a growth mindset.
While it can be easy to get a “big head”, it’s always been a priority for me to be people-first, and to treat everyone with kindness and compassion. I live by the mission to see the light in others and treat them as though that is all I see. Humility is what has allowed me to listen and desire to understand before being understood.
Joy is a strength, and for me was cultivated through years of trials. My song, A Good Day, and my first clothing line were released after some truly difficult experiences that threatened to steal my “sunshine”. I felt like I had lost my joy for a long time, and created some clothing that says “Can’t Steal My Sunshine” as a reminder for us that the Joy of the Lord is our strength.
A growth mindset is necessary for all of us. When I have been wronged, it granted me the ability to see the other side’s perspective and learn from what I could. When I have been in tough spots, it’s allowed me to persevere and adapt to be successful and joyful. While navigating life with a toddler and business owner, it has allowed me to give myself grace to learn day-by-day.
Each of these qualities combined have helped me navigate everything life throws my way, and although I am by no means perfect, I am proud of the person I am.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
Community! I believe so strongly in not being the smartest person in the room. I surround myself with people near and far who are uplifting, wise, generous, fun, and resilient. I adore the people in my circle and have learned so much from each of them.
Contact Info:
- Website: Taylorrains.com
- Instagram: Taylorrains321
- Other: My music is on all platforms under Taylor Rains
Image Credits
Ezra Guerrera Staci Brucks @amandagoesoff
