Meet Janelle Rice | Boutique Owner & Jewelry Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Janelle Rice of Moonchylde Collective and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Janelle, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I strongly believe in a work life balance. As a mom of two small children, I recently left my 7 year career with Vans to be a stay at home mom. Since being home this past year I have been able to focus and pour into my small business and turn it into a growing lifestyle brand. I find myself working harder for myself now, but I am able to work on my business with my kids right next to me. There are lots of late nights and sacrificed sleep but it is definitely worth it. It doesn’t feel like work when you are chasing your own dreams.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I first began designing jewelry when I owned a clothing boutique in college. From there I realized that making jewelry was a true passion of mine. It was a creative outlet for me and even though the boutique didn’t survive the recession, I continued making jewelry off and on over the years. After a long corporate career in the fashion industry- I knew I wanted to eventually have my own business again. I decided to fully pour into my hobby/passion and turn it into a brand. It has become more than just a jewelry brand – I now source goods from all over the world to create a curated women’s boutique where you can find contemporary clothing, ethically sourced home decor and my handmade jewelry. I love supporting other small businesses and I have been able to carry some amazing small brands since opening a store at the beginning of 2021. Even though 2020 was a very challenging year for many – I was able to hold on strong and continue to grow. People rallied behind small businesses like myself, and I owe a lot of the growth to my loyal customers. I am so grateful and blessed to be able to do what I love.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Since I get to call the beautiful city of Huntington Beach my home- I would say we would definitely have to head to Main Street in downtown HB. First I would grab a Lavender Latte at this small coffee shop: Milk + Honey, then we would head down Main Street and hit up all the cute shops along the street. First stop would be at Model Citizen, which is such a cute boutique that happens to carry my jewelry as well. Then we would head to the beach and soak up some sun. For lunch we would definitely have to eat at Jans Health Bar- that is a local must stop. Then continue to shop some more – until the clock strikes happy hour time…then head to 25 Degrees for the best hand crafted cocktails. That is just one day of fun in Huntington Beach – but we would also have to spend the following day at Pacific City shopping center which has it all: retail, food, drinks and a great view of the ocean. We would have to stop in at Open Market OC new retail location at Pacific City which features over 50 unique small business vendors under one roof – including my curated women’s clothing collection.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband Danny, who is also my accountant, and my biggest supporter. I owe a lot of my growth to him and his guidance. He encourages me and pushes me to grow my brand. He is the business brains and organization behind my brand, while I am the creative one. He is an amazing husband, father and an excellent accountant.  I also want to recognize Frank “my General Contractor”, who has helped me build three of my retail locations. He has been a major asset and huge help to my business and I am extremely grateful for his time and craftmanship.

Website: www.moonchyldecollective.com

Instagram: @moonchyldecollective

Facebook: @moonchyldecollective

Image Credits
Kylie & Co Photography