Our Story and Mission
Founded by Kristin Rohman Rehkamp in 2020, La Vie Est Belle was born out of the desire to inspire giving and kindness, tell her family’s story of experiencing anxiety and panic with their young daughter, and be a voice or community for others on a mental health journey. Kristin and her family are choosing their own path to happiness and hope to inspire others.
Creating a gift boutique rooted in the foundation of inspiring beautiful living allowed Kristin to fulfill a lifelong dream. With a background in interior design and retail, she had long envisioned her own boutique centered around serving others, purpose and mission. With the need to be home with her daughter braving acute anxiety and panic disorder, a high-level corporate career was no longer realistic. Kristin’s heart was in caring for her daughter and family, creating a platform to give back to youth mental health initiatives, and opening a store that creates joy while making a difference.
Truly a human endeavor, a percentage of La Vie Est Belle’s net profits and time are donated to youth mental health initiatives. It is a boutique that gives back.
Minnesota Live Interview
Our Story, “Finding Us” and La Vie Est Belle Gift Boutique, October 2022.
Click on image to watch the video.
In Kristin’s Words…
Our healthy happy oldest daughter suddenly experienced a panic attack on September 16, 2020, at a well-child check that triggered an acute anxiety/panic disorder. She was consequently hospitalized for nearly two months consisting of three emergency room visits and three extended hospital stays. Our life, path forward, and perspective changed suddenly and without warning.
Through our own experience, we discovered a need for a safe community for parents and care providers with a child or children on a mental health journey - a family simply trying to navigate the emotional, mental and physical complexities of our world today. A need to not feel so alone in the overwhelming and often misunderstood space of mental health. To be seen, heard, and hopefully find comfort in knowing there are others walking next to you. We bravely share our story on our blog page to educate, empower and strengthen other families.
Although my husband and I may never understand the “why” behind our journey with our daughter, we do believe all things happen for a reason. We are hopeful our family will lend a strong and positive voice for families and those serving our communities working to break down barriers, raise awareness and make a difference in the lives of those on a mental health journey. As we advocate for our daughter, we look forward to evolving mental health/well-being thinking and care models for those that walk alongside us.
Be happy, brave, and well!
Kristin