Today we’d like to introduce you to Makenna Ochsner.
Hi Makenna, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
With a degree and background in interior design, I’ve always been drawn to the details that make a space feel elevated and unforgettable. My years living in Charleston, South Carolina, deeply influenced my aesthetic where timeless Southern charm, layered textures, and artful details sparked a passion for creating beauty with intention.
Hosting has always been my love language, and it was during my own wedding planning journey that I recognized a need for a collection of rentals that felt intentional, fresh, and thoughtfully curated. At the same time, I was working a high-pressure job and it was one of those seasons where all the stars aligned and I felt this pull I couldn’t ignore. So I took a leap, left my job, and decided to pour my heart into building what I wished existed.
With that vision, Rayes was born. An ever-evolving inventory designed to bring artistry and authenticity to every celebration. Guided by the motto “Make Every Table A Work Of Art,” we’re dedicated to offering pieces that inspire creativity, elevate gatherings, and transform the simple act of coming together into something truly memorable.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting a small business has been anything but linear. Building a website from scratch, learning marketing, figuring out logistics, and managing every part of the business on my own in those early days stretched me in ways I never anticipated. Since this was an entirely new career path for me, my original vision was simple: start small, focus on intimate dinner parties, and create thoughtful, curated gatherings. But once we launched, we were met with an overwhelming amount of support from the wedding and event community, and it quickly became even more clear that there was a real need for elevated tabletop pieces at a larger scale.
That rapid shift came with its own set of challenges. Expanding inventory, managing storage, learning operations, and navigating a higher volume almost overnight. Balancing those growing pains while still protecting the heart of the brand hasn’t always been easy. Yet each hurdle pushed us to refine our systems, elevate our offering, and build something far more intentional and impactful than I ever imagined. Looking back, those early bumps didn’t derail the vision; they shaped it. They gave The Rayes Collection the clarity, purpose, and depth it carries today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We believe every celebration deserves a setting that feels meaningful, expressive, and truly reflective of the people at its center. Through thoughtful guidance and an edited collection of elevated pieces, we help clients create tablescapes that capture their personality in a modern, refined way.
We’re proud to be known for curating unique pieces that simply don’t exist anywhere else in the Austin market. Items sourced with care, designed with intention, and chosen specifically to bring something fresh to the event landscape. Our inventory reflects a perspective that’s distinctly our own, offering styles, finishes, and silhouettes that stand apart from traditional rental offerings.
What sets us apart is our commitment to doing things differently: we don’t just follow trends, we seek out what’s missing and introduce pieces that elevate the entire experience. At the heart of our work is a desire to offer something truly special. Rentals that feel discovered rather than expected, and service that feels personal, considered, and genuinely invested in each event’s story.
How do you define success?
For me, success is defined by impact and alignment. It’s knowing that the work we do genuinely elevates someone’s celebration and helps them feel seen, supported, and inspired. It’s building a brand that reflects our values – exceptional customer service, high-quality inventory, and a dedication to fostering trust and lasting relationships, while continuing to grow in a way that feels steady and authentic.
Success isn’t just about scale; it’s about creating something lasting, serving people well, and feeling proud of the quality and care behind every detail. If we’re doing that, and doing it consistently, that’s success.
Pricing:
- Our pricing is tailored to each event, reflecting the unique needs and vision of every celebration. Factors such as guest count, the specific pieces selected, and the overall scope of your rental, whether chargers, dinnerware, glassware, flatware, linens, or specialty décor are all considered when creating your quote. This personalized approach ensures that each tablescape is thoughtfully curated while remaining aligned with your budget. We work closely with clients to provide transparent, detailed pricing and help guide selections that maximize impact without unnecessary extras, making it easy to create a stunning, elevated celebration that feels intentional and effortless.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://therayescollection.com
- Instagram: therayescollection
Image Credits
Jenna McElroy Photography, Shutter by Hutter, Elle Reaux Photography, Ruét Photo
