Member Story: Whitney from Texas

Meet Whitney, one of our UpChoose moms from Texas. She's a first-time mom of Reyan Arrow, an adorable one-year-old boy. She joined UpChoose just before Reyan Arrow was born. You can find her on Instagram @whitneyherrod

What’s your name? Any nickname?

Whitney, but my friends and family call me Whit.

Live in? Grew up in?

I was born and raised in Joplin, MO, and I now live in Denton, TX.

You’re the mom of...

Reyan Arrow 🥰 Also my cats Whiskey and Pepper 😼😸

What prompted you to be more mindful and eco-conscious about your purchases for yourself or loved ones? Any specific trigger or realization?

Watching “The True Cost” changed everything for me. I am not perfect, but I am intentional with the things I purchase and have a completely different approach than I once had.

How did you begin making eco-friendly changes? What were your initial steps?

It started with shopping my own closet as well as shopping secondhand. I also found some ethical/sustainable brands that matched my style and invested in a few pieces that I loved.

Meet Reyan Arrow

What are some benefits you have seen over time, are there things that worked well for you?

I love a good story, and almost everything in my wardrobe has one that I love telling! Like how I thrifted it for a fraction of the original price or how it was made by artisans in Cambodia. Also, I don’t have a ton of clothes that I never wear because I only purchase items I love and wear over and over again.

❝ I am not perfect, but I am intentional with the things I purchase and have a completely different approach than I once had❞

Any tips you'd like to share with other expecting parents who just heard about these issues and trying to figure out their first steps?

Can you tell us a bit about the set(s) you received from UpChoose? What did you pick and how have you used the platform so far?

We are currently on our third set and have been using UpChoose since day one. We chose the Earth set and love the muted colors and subtle patterns! Because we had SO MANY hand-me-downs already, we’ve been renting the Starter set, but I think we will upgrade soon since we don’t have as much in larger sizes.

Do you already have a favorite outfit or item from your UpChoose set?

Anything and everything from Colored Organics. The fabric is so soft, and the patterns are great.

Reyan Arrow in his favorite Colored Organics sleeper from his UpChoose set!

If you could have any superpower what would it be?

Teleportation for sure.

Favorite activities or games you play with the kid(s)?

Peek-a-boo is getting pretty big laughs these days, but I love cuddling and reading to my boy.

Favorite movie?

The Princess Bride (yes, still)

Favorite song?

Swing Life Away by Rise Against (I sing it to Reyan every night!)

Dream place for a vacation?

Italy

Favorite dish?

Give me all the Thai food!