Dana's Leading Ladies
Nana Bernice
My first collection was named after my Nana Bernice. She was simply one of the chicest women I have ever known. I remember her full face of makeup and I will forever see her in the mirror when I apply lipstick on my lips. She was the type of woman who went to the grocery store in jewelry and always donned the most fabulous rings you've ever seen. There became a point in my life, that I almost think Nana wore more jewelry just so she could show it off when I asked to try on her rings. Each meal or visit ended in her sharing her pieces and letting me play dress up. In the summer of 2017, I launched DRD with a line of one of a kind pieces and the first piece to be named in the collection was the Nana Bernice. It was a South Sea Peal ring set in 14K gold and its style was an homage to the elegant woman she was and will always be in my life. While the collection has since gone, the inspiration of my Nana's impact on my life is one that will never cease to exist.
Cynthia Rose
As the youngest of three, most people said I would never leave my mother's side. From birth, I was attached and obsessed with my mother. And 35 years later, that love has remained the same. While I have left her side and grown up and started a family of my own. my mother is and always will be the center of my universe. My mom is simply put, the most level headed, kind, generous, sweet and beautiful woman I know. She is the glue that keeps our family together and our matriarch. My mom and I have been through a lot together and she has always unequivocally supported me in every step of my life. Watching her become a grandmother to her first grandchild made me excited for the future with my family. My girls (and husband) cannot get enough of their gram my and we would not be who we are without her. I only hope my girls love me the way I love my mom.
Jen
Growing up my sister was my idol. She was cool and she was beautiful. She had a confidence about her that I thought I'd never have. The way Jen had an effortless cool about her was so inspiring to me. While we didn't always get along, I longed for the day that Jen and I were on the same playing field. It took graduating from college and moving back to Chicago for Jen and I to finally be at the same stage in our lives. Six years ago she joined me in business and I am so incredibly lucky to have my best friend as my partner. Not a day goes by that we aren't texting all day and I usually get my best laughs with her. There is no one in the world I would rather be in pajamas with on the couch. There is no one in the world I would rather be best friends and sisters with. Thanks for your constant support, love and partnership. Sisters by blood, but best friends by choice.
Poppy & Lulu
August 5th, 2014, my life changed forever. I officially became a mom and welcomed Poppy Rae into the world. Seeing her face for the first time was nothing short of amazing. I never knew what a mother's love felt like and not a day goes by that I don't thank my lucky stars for being able to become a mom. With the most gorgeous red hair and the cutest little voice, she stole our hearts and continues to each day. We are amazed at the little girl you have become and adore watching your every move. On March 29th, we were blessed with another little girl and my heart swelled knowing that I was able to give Poppy a sister. Lulu Jack was born and I knew our family was complete. Her sweet demeanor and ease about life is what makes Lulu so special. While her two years of life have been paved with ups and downs, Lulu has proven to be the bravest and strongest little girl I know. Nothing has stopped you from always smiling and loving on your family with lots of hugs and kisses. I am the luckiest to have two sweet and loving little girls who inspire me every single day. I hope one day you look up to me and are proud of the business we have built and the women we inspire. You are the greatest inspiration in my life.
Namesakes
When I started Dana Rebecca Designs, the greatest support and encouragement came not only from my family, but from my girlfriends. Reflecting on the growth of DRD, I am indebted to the girlfriends in my life who have cheered me on from the sidelines. From childhood, summer camp, kindergarten, high school, college and beyond, each and every one of you has meant the world to me in this journey. You've listened, cheered, supported, encouraged, mentored, inspired and lifted me up. From childhood to motherhood and all the years in between, I am forever grateful to have old and new friends who have been through everything with me. My summer camp friends who can still laugh with me about things from 25 years ago, to my college friends who are still on my daily call rotation, to my mom friends who support me and my girls on a day to day basis. You are all so special and important to me. Thank you for inspiring our collections and raising girls who are the next generation of namesakes and women in our world. I am lucky to have so much love and support and know that my tribe of women is what keeps me going everyday!
