Meet Rachael Gillette | founder

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

Hi Rachael, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I think Nelson Mandela truly said it best-“there is no passion to be found playing small and settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable living.”

Taking a risk and venturing into the unknown can be quite intimidating; there is often a fear of failure. But without risk, I believe there is no reward. As I have gotten older I have realized that the chances I haven’t taken, are the ones that I have regretted most. And have learned that not all failed risks are negative. Sometimes they can provide the most valuable lesson one can learn; and those lessons can be truly beautiful.

Starting Nômade was the biggest risk I have taken. For as long as I can remember it has been a dream of mine to start my own business, but it always seemed unattainable. When the pandemic hit and I lost my job, it forced me to take a step back and re-evaluate my future. It was uncomfortable, scary, and at times felt defeating. But ultimately that hardship gave me the push I needed to take that risk. Nômade is just shy of a year, and while I am still learning and growing, I am truly so proud of all that I have accomplished thus far. Being able to create a brand that highlights and gives a platform to my favorite artists and offers one of a kind handcrated goods that are not only beautiful they don’t harm the planet is truly a dream come true. I have finally reached a place in my life where I wake up every day with pure excitement to go to work and I couldn’t feel more lucky.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I think that the one thing that I am most proud of with Nômade is the platform we have given to artists and creators, and being able to support not only my local community but communities overseas as well.

When first creating this business, my first thought was to have solely US owned brands. But as I began navigating the small business realm, I realized how much our artists overseas needed us as well. So often creators in other countries are exploited, and this is where the element of fair trade is so important.

I wanted to be able highlight artists near and far, that I can ensure are payed a fair wage, are working in a healthy environment, and are offered market access. I feel so proud to be able to provide that.

Finding like minded brands that have the same ethics can be quite difficult and at times can create a delay in product releases. But I also feel that creates an element of exclusiveness, where our buyers can get excited for the next small-batch offering.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Although Nômade is solely e-commerce, it is based out of my home town San Clemente. I have lived and grown in this seaside village my whole life, and am constantly in awe of its charm. There is so much it has to offer. Without a doubt the best restaurants are the Vine, the Cellar, and Brick. Drinks are a must at our speak easy Jane. The beaches are truly gorgeous and offer the most incredible sunsets. I walk alongside the beach trail every morning and wouldn’t miss it. And of course a visit to SC isn’t complete without a night out at the triangle. If you know, you know.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Without a doubt, I have to dedicate my shoutout to my mom. She has been immensely loving, encouraging, optimistic, and supportive throughout my journey. Anytime I doubted myself, she was there to lift me up and ensure me of my decision. I feel so blessed to have her as not only my mom, but my best friend. I would not be where I am today without her and Nômade would surely not have the success that it does. I have run this brand primarily as a one woman show, but any time I have needed a helping hand she is the first one there. Wether it be packing orders, dropping off shipments, or helping assist with purchasing. I truly feel blessed.

Website: www.shopnomadehome.com

Instagram: @shopnomadehome

Facebook: @shopnomadehome