One thing I’ve learned is that some of the best creative moments happen when you slow down for a little while.

This past week, we spent time in Rosemary Beach, Florida working on new designs and future collections for Merci Dupre Clothiers with my friend Nicole Paloma of Nicole Paloma Handsewn Designs. Nicole has collaborated with us on all of our fashion shows over the years, and she truly understands the vision behind what we’re building with Merci Dupre Clothiers.

Fashion has always been personal to me. It’s art. It’s expression. It’s confidence. It tells a story before you ever say a word.

There’s something incredibly inspiring about Rosemary. The neutral tones, timeless architecture, slower pace, and beach air all create an environment that feels intentional. It gives you space to breathe, reflect, and create again.

Nicole and I spent time discussing fabrics, silhouettes, future collections, runway concepts, and where we see fashion moving next. We both gravitate toward pieces that feel elevated yet effortless. Timeless, but still unique. Clothing women can truly live in while still feeling beautiful and confident.

What made the trip even more special was celebrating our wedding anniversary while we were there. Life can move so quickly between work, travel, events, and responsibilities that it’s easy to forget how important it is to pause and appreciate the people around you.

That’s what this trip felt like.

Creative.
Peaceful.
Grounding.
Inspiring.

I’ve always wanted MDC to be more than clothing. I want it to feel like a lifestyle rooted in confidence, sustainability, beauty, travel, and individuality. Not fast fashion. Not overly complicated. Just intentional pieces created with heart behind them.

Nicole has such a strong creative eye and brings artistry into everything she designs. Watching someone create with their hands in a world that moves so digitally now feels incredibly refreshing.

I truly believe this next chapter of MDC is going to be one of my favorites yet.

More elevated.
More refined.
More authentic to who we are becoming.

And I cannot wait to share it with all of you.