About

Hi, Welcome to Birch & Rae!
I’m Alyssa — DIY enthusiast, home dreamer, and the heart behind Birch & Rae. Nestled near the peaceful shores of the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, I’m on a mission to make our 1930s cottage not just beautiful, but truly functional for the people (and pups!) who live in it.

We live in a small house with three lovable dogs and a whole lot of life happening in every corner. Around here, function is just as important as style—many of my projects are born out of pure necessity. If something doesn’t flow, fit, or make sense for our family, I find a way to DIY it into something better.

What began as a love for decorating has evolved into a passion for practical creativity—designing spaces that are cozy, personal, and actually useful. After taking a break to welcome our newest little family member in 2024, I felt inspired to shift Birch & Rae from selling handmade home décor to sharing the journey of making it.

Now, this space is where I share real-life DIY projects—some planned, many spontaneous—with the hope of inspiring you to create a home that fits your life. From storage hacks to room refreshes, I’m all about making the most of what you have and loving the home you’re in.

Thanks so much for being here—grab a cup of coffee (or a paintbrush) and stay a while!

– Alyssa