Meet Dakota Rayfield: Mover and Shaker & Outdoor Enthusiast

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dakota Rayfield and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dakota, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Carving your own path in life is, to me, one of the riskiest things we can do. That’s the only thing that has ever made sense to me. Living out loud has always been a part of my life in the most beautiful way. I embrace each day and experience. To know you have the confidence and commitment to accomplish what you set out to do; and find the best way to thrive from that experience, is just pure magic! Remember it’s not the destination, but the journey. I pride myself as being very resourceful. A trait I got from my mother. Nothing is more invigorating than fixing a problem or furthering an idea. It all starts by believing in yourself and being open-minded enough to listen to others and see different angles they might not. In a lifestyle and culture that is constantly changing- the more risks you take, the better you get at handling them in a productive way; without the anxiety. No matter which way it goes, it’s always worth it! Positive or negative, it was growth. You may lose today, but you learn and do it again for a better tomorrow.  All I knew from the start was I wanted to be my creative self, always enjoy the ride, and be happy. If you’re not happy, what’s the point. I heard a great line in a movie once; “Fate. There is fate, but it only takes you so far, and then it’s up to you”. Believe in something greater than yourself, and accompany that with gratitude for all that you have in life already. To make a change in the world, you must go through the change yourself. That’s the greatest risk you’ll ever take. When an opportunity knocks, be sure to answer! You can always go back, usually, to something you know or already have been doing. As a friend of mine calls it, “The Devil you know, LOL.” The Most Important thing to me.. is I find fun in every moment. That’s where I live. The Risk Ride is tons of fun and way easier than you think. Just don’t lose that positive perspective and believe anything is possible.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Whether it’s in Custom Art and Products Designs, Life Coaching, or Film Production – I will always go the extra mile to ensure my customers’ visions are met. Something we’re both very proud of. I want my client to feel the deepest connection to what I’m designing for them; whether it’s bringing their vision to life, or in combination with my own design and style. Customizing it to them and their favorite things; whether it be on a skate/surfboard, graphic design, visual media, or canvas. The very things that make us unique, are the very things that make us each so special. Our differences fill the world with greatness, growth, and possibilities. There’s a place for everyone in this world to feel they are worth the effort; and deserve to feel and be whoever they want to. I only want to create and inspire happiness and personal growth everywhere and anyway I can. That takes many shapes. I relish the challenge. I feel so blessed to have reached my own enlightenment; enriching my already inexhaustible passion for life and love. I only want to inspire others to do the same. It’s the best feeling in the world, and there’s no going back once you find it.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’ve been a beach kid my whole life, from the Gulf Coast of Florida to the So-Cal Coast. My favorite thing, no doubt, about LA is the landscape, mountains, ocean cliff-sides, and endless hiking trails with panoramic views of the city. It’s breathtaking. Not to mention the architectural differences between every house and building. They are all so unique and beautiful. You are rare to find any cookie cutter homes here. Endless design concepts and possibilities. Being very outdoorsy and athletic myself, I would take them on hikes off PCH in Malibu/Santa Monica, and/or around the Hollywood sign. Honestly, just driving all around the city is so much fun. If biking or longboard skateboarding is a possibility- then definitely that too! There are great bike lanes and metro systems throughout the city, making it easy to travel around. There’s so- much to see and do; and way too much to name. A week won’t make a dent in the amount of cool things you can do. My favorite area is Venice and the west side. Whether you’re biking, skating, or walking there, the eclectic art culture is a muse all on it’s own. If you want to surf, make sure you give it a try. The waves and different surf spots are perfect for any level. There’s something for everyone. So I definitely suggest you search what interests you before you come. It is after all the land of opportunities.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Firstly, to my Brilliant and Beautiful Mother, Samantha. My Idol and The OG Risk-Taker in my Life. Thank you for Always reminding me-