Sewn Together by Strength: A Designer's Path Through Pain to Purpose
Meet Ali Rice, a local fashion designer and the creative force behind Wreck'd Collective and Artisan Alley. Ali’s journey to success is as inspiring as the designs she creates, filled with resilience, courage, and an unwavering passion for her craft. Navigating the stormy seas of loss and personal hardship, Ali turned her pain into purpose, stitching together a new life with every thread and fabric she touched.
Today, Ali stands not just as a designer, but as a beacon of hope and empowerment for others who may find themselves in the dark. Through Wreck'd Collective, she brings to life pieces that are not just garments but stories of transformation, strength, and renewal. Artisan Alley, her latest venture, serves as a creative sanctuary where art and community converge, fostering a space for others to find their own path to healing and expression.
“My life’s mission is to live my most beautiful and authentic life, full of joy, happiness, serving others while also serving myself. ”
Start with an introduction.
My name is Ali Rice, and I'm the founder and creative force behind Wreck’d Collective. With a background in both fashion and graphic design, I've dedicated my life to blending these two passions into a business that not only showcases unique, upcycled clothing but also promotes sustainable fashion practices. I hold a Bachelor's of Science in Design, with a focus on Fashion Design: Product Development and Merchandising, from the University of Cincinnati’s renowned DAAP program. After working with some of the biggest names in the fashion industry, I felt a calling to create something that was uniquely mine—something that would reflect my values, creativity, and commitment to sustainability.
My life's mission is to live my most beautiful and authentic life, full of joy, happiness, serving others while also serving myself. I aim to inspire other women to follow their passions and dreams, and to encourage artists to share their art, no matter what form or medium it takes. This mission is also what led me to start Artisan Alley Market, a monthly event in collaboration with Cottonwood Center for the Arts. Through Artisan Alley, I’ve created a platform for local artists, makers, and thrifters to showcase their work, bringing together a vibrant community that celebrates creativity and sustainability.
Outside of my entrepreneurial journey, I find immense joy in dancing, live music, and spending time in nature. I participate in dance choreography and dance fitness classes on a weekly basis, and I love how the power of dance and movement has elevated my life in exponential ways. I’m also deeply connected to nature—I love camping, hiking, and swimming in beautiful lakes. These activities help me stay grounded and inspired, fueling my passion for life and creativity.
“Leaving the abusive relationship was perhaps the most challenging feat of all. ”
Tell us about a time you had to overcome an obstacle? What did that moment in your life teach you?
After my decade-long marriage unraveled in 2019, I found myself at a crossroads, adrift in a sea of uncertainty. The pain of divorce was compounded by my entry into an abusive relationship at the end of 2019 that lasted for over a year. Despite its brevity, this relationship left an indelible mark on my life, thrusting me into a world of physical, mental, verbal, and financial abuse. My self-confidence was shattered, and I was isolated from my friends and family, having moved across the country in a futile attempt to make the relationship work.
During this tumultuous time, I clung to my 9-5 job as a lifeline, grateful for the safe space my employers provided amidst the chaos of my personal life. The financial manipulation I endured forced me to file for bankruptcy, which, though daunting, became a necessary step toward rebuilding my life.
Leaving the abusive relationship was perhaps the most challenging feat of all. It took four attempts before I was able to break free and go completely no-contact. The trauma bond was strong, and my abuser's narcissistic tendencies made the exit fraught with danger. Each attempt to leave was met with increasingly terrifying violence, but with the help of law enforcement and a protection order, I was finally able to reclaim my life.
Amidst these challenges, I was also navigating the profound grief of losing my mother in 2015. Her passing left an indelible void in my heart, plunging me into the depths of sorrow and forcing me to confront the harsh realities of mortality at a tender age. This loss compounded the emotional turmoil I faced, making the journey to healing even more complex. My mother’s death was a pivotal moment in my life, a reminder of the fragility of life, and it deepened my resolve to find meaning and purpose despite the pain.
In the aftermath, I leaned into women’s groups, seeking out community and connection in a new town where I was essentially starting over. Building friendships and surrounding myself with supportive people became a crucial part of my healing journey. Filing for bankruptcy, while difficult, gave me a fresh start, allowing me to focus on rebuilding my life without the overwhelming burden of debt.
During this period of healing, I rediscovered my passion for dance, joining a dance fitness community that reignited my spirit. The power of movement and rhythm provided a beacon of hope in my darkest hour, allowing me to find joy amidst the pain. Dance became a transformative force in my life, helping me reconnect with my body and my sense of self-worth.
Today, I stand as a testament to resilience and the power of the human spirit. My journey has been marked by loss, trauma, and hardship, but it has also been a story of redemption and self-discovery. From the bustling streets of New York City to the sun-kissed shores of California, and through all the challenges life has thrown my way, I have emerged stronger and more determined than ever to live my most beautiful and authentic life.
Through my work with Wreck’d Collective and the Artisan Alley Market, I aim to inspire others to embrace their own journey, no matter how tumultuous it may be. I want to show that even in our darkest moments, we can find the strength to rebuild, to find joy, and to live a life full of love, happiness, and purpose. My story is a reminder that we can overcome tragedy, loss, divorce, bankruptcy, and abuse—and still emerge on the other side, ready to inspire others with our resilience and perseverance.
What do you believe is the biggest challenge women in business face?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a woman in business is the constant pressure to wear all the hats. As an entrepreneur, especially when you're just starting out, there’s an overwhelming feeling of having to be everything—designer, marketer, accountant, customer service rep, and more. This can lead to feeling stretched too thin and doubting your abilities.
There have been times when I’ve felt like I’m "not enough" or that I don’t "know enough" to succeed in certain areas of my business. These are false stories I’ve had to break through repeatedly. The internal narrative that I’m somehow inadequate or ill-prepared is a battle many women in business face. It’s not just about the workload, but about the emotional and mental toll of constantly proving yourself, both to others and to yourself.
However, I’ve learned that acknowledging these feelings is the first step toward overcoming them. By recognizing that these doubts are simply a part of the journey, I’ve been able to push past them and grow my business in ways I never thought possible. It's about giving yourself grace, leaning into your strengths, and continuously learning and adapting. The journey isn't easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding.
What did the younger version of you want to be when you grew up?
When I was younger, I dreamed of being a graphic designer. I was always drawn to the creative arts, and graphic design seemed like the perfect blend of creativity and practicality. Although I ended up in fashion design—a path I hadn’t initially planned—those early dreams never left me. Interestingly, my career has come full circle, as I now incorporate graphic design and fashion design into my work with Wreck’d Collective, where I create original graphics and patterns that adorn our upcycled clothing pieces.
What advice would you give women in business?
The best advice I can give to women in business is to stay true to your vision and never be afraid to pivot when necessary. The road to success is rarely a straight line, and challenges will inevitably arise. But those challenges can also be opportunities in disguise, leading to growth and innovation. Trust yourself, invest in your dreams, and remember that resilience is your greatest asset. Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in your vision, and don’t be afraid to take bold steps toward your goals.
Where can our readers connect with you online?
I have many places we can connect online.
My personal portfolio can be seen on my website www.ajrcdesigns.com and my personal instagram @ajrcdesignsco
My clothing company, Wreck’d Collective, can be seen on our website www.wreckdcollective.com and our instagram @wreckdcollective
Details about Artisan Alley Market can be seen on our website www.wreckdcollective.com/artisanalley and our instagram @artisanalleymarket
