Dreamer Series: Charity Craig

Our Dreamer Series features entrepreneur women who–in spite of fear, doubt, and insecurities–pursue a life of their dreams. These women work every day to become better versions of themselves. In turn, they make this world a better place for everyone. The world needs to hear their stories and see their light shine. That way, we can find the courage and passion to do the same in our own lives. Today’s Dreamer Series features none other than Lillian & Co. founder, Charity Craig.

Contrary to popular belief, Charity isn’t passionate about jewelry. Rather, she’s passionate about pursuing a life that matters. Charity’s personal journey of healing opened up a world of possibilities for her. The Lillian brand we know and love has been just one small chapter of her incredible story.

Lillian & Co.’s own Charity Craig

Andi: “As you know, the Dreamer Series is about sharing your story. It’s about how you personally and actively pursue your dreams to inspire others to pursue theirs. Can you pinpoint when your dream of creating Lillian & Co. began?”

I actively pursue my dream by retraining my brain to be curious and childlike. Life, age, and other people have a way of burying your dreams. I always say that Lillian & Co. is the dream I never knew I had.

I don’t believe in accidents, but I never planned on starting a jewelry business. This company evolved around my journey of doing more of what made me happy. It grew from my love for all things Disney, along with my desire to help women heal and grow into their higher selves.

I didn’t set out to make this my dream. I discovered along the way that your dreams may not look like you think they will. In the end, if you stay true to yourself and your values, your dream will emerge exactly as it’s supposed to.

Charity

Andi: “Your passion for inspiring others on social media is infectious. Where does this beaming passion stem from?”

Thank you! Almost 10 years ago, I underwent a radical personal transformation. I began overcoming depression, self-hate, and deep insecurities. After my life went from gray to technicolor, I had a burning desire to share what I had discovered with other women trapped in similar darkness. So, it’s from that deep flame that my passion burns.

Charity

Andi: “You have 4 beautiful children and a loving husband, on top of a successful business. What has it been like managing the hats as an entrepreneur, mother of 4, and wife?”

Learning how to navigate all the different roles in my life has been a challenge. These 3 things are what keep me from getting overwhelmed:

1. I can only get done what I can get done right now. The rest will still be waiting for me tomorrow.

2. My mistakes do not define me. When I make them, I let them go and keep moving forward (*wink*) without judging myself.

3. Family is always first.

Charity

Andi: “None of us are on top of all things 100% of the time. How do you cope on the days you feel unmotivated, afraid, or discouraged?”

Over the years, I’ve learned to embrace the ebb and flow of life, emotions, and my mental state. I’m learning to trust and listen to myself and to pay attention to what I need in the moment. So, on those days (or weeks, or months) when I’m experiencing low ebbs, I practice grace and self-kindness. Then, I self-evaluate to see how fear and self-doubt are at the root of my discouragement or lack of motivation. I don’t judge myself for being afraid. Instead, I transfer my fearful and negative thoughts into positive and empowering ones to get myself back into alignment.

Charity

Andi: “What would you say has been your most difficult obstacle in pursuing your dreams so far? How did you overcome this challenge?”

My limiting beliefs are the most challenging obstacle I’ve had to overcome in pursuing my dreams. For years, I didn’t believe I was good enough. I was too quiet, too awkward, too you-name-it. I continually judged myself against others who were funnier, smarter, prettier, or more extroverted. I was forever downgrading myself, even believing I didn’t even have a dream to pursue. It’s been a long crawl out of the hole I dug for myself, but it was well worth the effort.

What spurred me to overcome myself was that I was sick and tired of being miserable. I almost lost everything I loved when my marriage nearly ended. I didn’t want to live like that anymore. So, I decided to take a bet on myself. It was the best decision I ever made.

Charity

Andi: “The Lillian & Co. products you design are meant to be wearable inspiration to pursue a life you desire. What are your personal favorite pieces, and what do they mean to you?”

The “Do As Dreamers Do” bracelet will forever be my favorite. It’s the OG – the bracelet that started it all. Lillian & Co. started in 2016 with this one quote on one bracelet. I had no idea what was about to happen when we released it as a 6-week pre-order. Within the first 24 hours, 300 orders came through, and we were off to the races.

Even though we’ve discontinued it, I love the Diamond in the Rough Collection. It’s the visual of the message behind it that makes me so happy. “When life’s journey takes away your rough edges or puts pressure on you… or when you find yourself walking through a fiery trial… do not be afraid. These are the ways a diamond is processed to reveal its glittery splendor. During those trying times, you need to remember that you are a diamond in the rough.”

“Have Courage And Be Kind” is a bracelet that I wear every day. Just as Cinderella’s mother said, “it’s a great secret that will see you through all the trials life has to offer.” I 100% believe courage and kindness will get you through all that life will throw at you.

Charity

Andi: “Where can people find you online and connect with you?”

You can check out my personal blog at charitycraig.com. Or find me personally on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @CharityLCraig. There, I help women heal their marriages, defend their families, and lead with love.

Charity

Be sure to follow Charity Craig on social media, and stay tuned for more interviews with incredible women in our Dreamer Series!