One of the things I love most about what I do is collaborating with other creatives. There’s something sacred about creative alignment—the moment when collaboration becomes more than shared work, and starts to feel like shared purpose

Returning to my roots here in North County, I was still finding my footing and getting to know the local creative scene. And then I met Ruth Ann Thorn—founder of Nativ Beauty and the Native Star boutique—and everything shifted. Not just because of her beautiful shop or the incredible brands she carries, or even her presence in the global art world—but because of the depth and generosity of her heart.

In a short time, she felt like a sister I’d always known. Ruth Ann lives and breathes the belief that we are better together. She shows up fully for the people in her life—and if you meet her halfway, she’ll meet you with even more. It’s inspiring to witness, and even more powerful to be part of.

At the launch of Native Star a little over a year ago, I had the honor of meeting Rose McFadden, a Navajo artist, designer, and founder of Isabella Rose Designs. With Rose, it was instant.. We connected immediately—admiring each other’s work, sharing our styles, and celebrating what we each bring to the table.

That launch was unforgettable. We supported each other as if we’d been doing it for years. Rose felt like a natural extension of that same spirit—like Ruth Ann energy in a new form—and I loved it.

Within days, we were already creating together—shooting, dreaming, and building. Rose also introduced me to the incredibly talented Lynn Trainor, whose intricate, stunning hats are designed not only as art pieces, but as vessels for healing and spiritual connection.

What I love most is how aligned we all are in intention. I design with transformative silhouettes and textiles that invite ease, confidence, and a quiet sense of beauty. Rose’s jewelry feels like an extension of the soul—adornment that carries meaning. And Lynn’s work literally crowns it all, weaving together metals, stones, color, and intention in a way that feels both grounding and transcendent.

Together, it’s seamless. Not forced—just aligned.

Since that first Native Star launch, my collaboration with Rose has only grown. We’ve done numerous shoots, a few shows, and she even took SITA Couture to Italy with her.  She’ll also be co-hosting our next event at Native Star—and there are whispers of a future co-creation: a unisex couture line.

How beautiful would that be?

Having an idea is one thing. Following through is another. But the real magic—the secret sauce—is showing up again and again. It’s not always easy. Life pulls us in different directions. But that’s exactly why we need each other—for inspiration, for momentum, for joy, and for that sense of being part of something bigger than ourselves.

They say the second ingredient to that “secret sauce” is loving the people you’re creating with. For me, the two are inseparable. When both are present, the result is always a win.

There’s so much more to come.
For now, enjoy this reel—a glimpse into the magic Rose and I have shared over the past year.

@isabellarosedesign.co
@sita_thompson
@sitacouture
@nativestar