Local mom, Tara Reynolds, shares her journey of finding the best ways to support her son, and discovered community and ways to give-back along that way.
CL: WHAT LED TO YOU OPENING YOUR SHOP?
TARA: I'm radical about community. When my son Robby was 18 months old, he was diagnosed with autism and for a long time I felt stuck in the grieving process, unaware that so much good (challenging, yes) but good times were ahead. As he got older, I realized that my son wasn't who needed to change, but it was actually me. In order to support his needs, I needed to adjust my expectations and throw out society's typical parenting rulebook.
We were now on our own timeline, celebrating our own milestones and even inch-stones. I started surrounding myself with uplifting women, also parenting children on the spectrum and listening to autistic advocates. I realized there will always be so much to learn and unlearn as a parent to best support my son for exactly who he is and I wanted to create a space that could bring that to life in the area.
CL: WHAT DO YOU OFFER & SELL?
TARA: We have pretty rad autism awareness apparel and accessories with meaningful messages that advocate for the community and are beautiful conversation starters.
We also partner with local organizations like Aspire Accessories and Together at Mikey's place, a non profit that employs adults with disabilities. These artisans create handmade candles, soaps and other items that we purchase and sell at our shop. Each quarter we donate a portion of our proceeds to other organizations not just in Texas, but also nationwide that support and give back to the autism and disability community.
The store front isn't just for shopping. Along with our fun sip + shops, we also have educational workshops, play therapy, support groups, yoga and many more events that uplift and celebrate the autistic community and the people who love and support them.
CL: IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT THE COMMUNITY TO KNOW?
Be kind to all minds, y'all!