My Awkward Truth

The other day, someone asked me what my brand was all about.

Simple enough question, right?

But I hesitated.

I felt my voice wobble a little, unsure. I said, “Well, the first collection was a tribute to motherhood… but honestly, it’s just a brand of all the things I love.”

And instantly, I felt like I undersold it.

I walked away wondering—How am I ever going to grow this brand if I can’t even pitch it in real life? How do I explain the heart of something that means so much, especially when it’s still taking shape and evolving with me?

Because the truth is—I’m still figuring it out.

Ever + Alder was born out of the most transformative season of my life: becoming a mom. The first collection came from that raw, beautiful, exhausting space. It’s where the spark started. But it’s grown into something more.

This brand isn’t just about T-shirts or sweatshirts or cute hats. It’s about intentional living. About motherhood, yes—but also about identity, self-expression, growth, and finding community in the chaos. It’s a brand built around all the things I care deeply about—like slowing down, speaking truth, and making space for the in-between moments that matter.

And yet, when I try to put that into words face-to-face? Sometimes I stumble.

Maybe you can relate. Maybe you’ve felt the same self-doubt when explaining your passion project or sharing something that matters to you. Maybe you’ve wondered if your voice is strong enough, or your story clear enough.

Here’s what I’m learning: you don’t have to have it all figured out to begin. You just have to keep showing up.

So that’s what I’m doing. One post, one design, one messy attempt at explaining what Ever + Alder is—even if it’s just “a brand of all the things I like”—because at the end of the day, that is what makes it real.

To everyone who has placed an order, sent a kind message, shared a post, or simply said, “I see you” — thank you. You are part of this story. You are helping build something beautiful, and I don’t take that lightly.

If you’re new here: welcome. I hope Ever + Alder meets you where you are and reminds you that your story matters too.

Thanks for being here. I’m so glad you are.

With love,

MaryKathryn