Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in Ridgefield?
We are the Rae & Burke Family. We moved from Toronto Canada to Ridgefield, CT 6 years ago.
How many children do you have? What are their names and ages?
I have 4 girls. Two blood and two step.
Jaimee – 14
Megan – 18
Sydney – 23
Taylor – 26….yup…I can’t even believe that!
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I spent over 18 years in Corporate America. Long story short…I traded in my nice corporate high paying job to venture out on my own.
Tell us about your work with Jill Rae Designs and/or LimeLife by Alcone?
My entrepreneurial journey began with LimeLife by Alcone. I good friend of my had started up her own business. She focused on helping women achieve their dreams and be paid their worth, while providing amazing all natural and chemical free skin care and professional grade makeup! I became obsessed with the skin care, so thought it would be a perfect opportunity to contribute to the family, receive my products at discount and meet amazing women all around the world. Today, I am a Leader with a team that spans from the US and Canada.
Most recently, I launched my very own business Jill Rae Designs! Graduating with a special arts degree and working in one of the largest department stores in Canada as a Visual Merchandise and Display Manager, I have always loved decorating and being creative with different spaces. I also currently carry a Certificate is Season Decorating with, The Decorating & Staging Academy. This has always been my passion, now I am so thrilled to be doing what I love and getting paid for it! Jill Rae Designs will transform any space each season. From brightening up your home in the summer, to bringing in the cozy textures for winter. All while focusing on those extra exciting holidays and providing ease and giving back time to my clients. Both my jobs really go hand in hand. Helping people feel good about themselves and the space!
Please tell us about your work at the Lounsbury House.
I have been on the Board of Directors with the Lounsbury House for 3 years. As President of the Women’s Committee, our main fundraising event is the Tree Festival. During the last two Tree Festivals, I have had the privilege to lead the decorating side of it. I work closely with others to choose the themes and purchase the items. Then it take a full week of decorating dedication to transform the Lounsbury House into a winter wonderland! Taking care of all the trees (over 50), metals and staircases, it becomes a truly magical place. Currently I am one of the Lounsbury House, preferred ventures, providing decorating services for special events and private parties.
What do you hope individuals gain from your expertise/products?
Pour joy, happiness and a sense of confidence.
What’s been the best piece of advice you’ve received from another mother?
Go after it now, don’t wait. If you love what you do, it will all fall into place.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
I take pride in being involved in many different community events. I live right on Main Street, in a wonderful 1756 Historical Home, once owned by Benjamin Keeler. I feel honored and privilege to be a part of Ridgefield history. I have gained many amazing friends that I will cherish forever. I am also so happy to have 2 daughters graduate from our schools system…no doubt will they have an amazing future.
