Today we’d like to introduce you to Brooke & Zachary Whitt.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Southern Wrays was born from small-town roots, creative passion, and a shared dream of building something meaningful for our family. What began as a modest online Southern apparel store quickly evolved into a full boutique experience within the first six months—proof that authenticity and heart still resonate deeply.
Months before opening, Brooke immersed herself in the creative process, designing logos and tee shirts with careful attention to detail. She ordered samples, refined designs, and reworked concepts until each piece reflected the quality and style she envisioned. Designing was more than a hobby—it was a passion waiting for the right platform.
At the same time, Zachary would finish his 7–4 workday and head straight to the kitchen table, where men’s hat designs came to life. What started as late-night brainstorming soon became a creative breakthrough. With dedication and persistence, he discovered his own passion for design, developing a signature style and an efficient creative flow that helped shape the brand.
Shortly before Southern Wrays officially launched, Brooke was working PRN at a local hospital after welcoming our second child. The long hours and time away from home sparked an important realization—we wanted to create a life where family came first, without sacrificing creativity or ambition.
Southern Wrays represents more than fashion. It’s a reflection of hard work, faith, family, and the belief that big dreams can grow from small towns. Every piece we offer is designed with intention, inspired by Southern values, and created to make our customers feel confident, comfortable, and right at home.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Has the journey been smooth? Not always—but every challenge has helped shape who we are today.
Like many small businesses, we’ve faced slower months, particularly during the summer season when online traffic and orders tend to dip. Operating as a small-town boutique has its own unique challenges. While the sense of community is something we deeply cherish, fewer people consistently choose to shop small, and that reality can impact local businesses from time to time.
Those quieter seasons have tested our patience and perseverance, but they’ve also taught us resilience. We’ve learned how to adapt, stay creative, and remain committed to our vision—continuing to show up, design, and serve our customers with the same heart and quality, no matter the season.
Through it all, our passion and belief in Southern Wrays have never wavered. Every challenge has only strengthened our appreciation for the customers who do choose to shop small and support our dream.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At the heart of Southern Wrays is a balance of dedication, creativity, and family values.
Zachary currently works at Talberts Building Supply in Roxboro, North Carolina, where he has spent the past seven years building a strong career as a Receiving Specialist. He takes great pride in his role and deeply values the company and its principles. His work ethic, attention to detail, and loyalty translate directly into Southern Wrays—especially through his creative contributions to men’s designs and brand operations. As Southern Wrays continues to grow, Zachary remains committed to advancing his career at Talberts while helping guide and support the business alongside Brooke.
Brooke is full-time with Southern Wrays, managing the brand while also raising their children and balancing the daily rhythm of home and business life. She oversees the creative direction, design process, and day-to-day operations, pouring her passion into every detail. Building a business from home has allowed her to stay present with her family while fully embracing her love for design, fashion, and entrepreneurship.
What we are most proud of is creating a business that reflects who we are—hardworking, family-oriented, and rooted in small-town values. What sets Southern Wrays apart is the heart behind it. We aren’t just building a boutique—we’re building something genuine, sustainable, and deeply personal, grounded in Southern tradition and driven by passion, perseverance, and faith.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The most important quality behind our success is perseverance. Building a small business comes with highs and lows, but staying committed through slower seasons and challenges has made all the difference. We’ve learned to trust the process, lean on our faith, and keep moving forward even when results aren’t immediate.
Pricing:
- Pricing ; Starting at $3 or more depending on order!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://southernwrays.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southernwrays?igsh=MTk3ZWIxMGYxN25naA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1PgE465Dqf/?mibextid=wwXIfr
