Raph & Rose: childrenswear with heart 

Round & About

Anna-Louise Henry tells us all about her childrenswear business & what she loves about local life  

Raph & Rose Handmade is on a mission to break boundaries in children’s fashion. Founded by local mum and maker Anna, the brand offers bright, joyful clothing that defies outdated gender stereotypes. Created with comfort, freedom and self-expression in mind, every piece is designed to let kids be kids – confident, curious and completely themselves. 

Anna moved from south-east London to Wallingford with her husband and young daughter three years ago in search of a slower pace and more space. “We fell in love with the town immediately,” Anna says. “It just felt like home – and still does.” Now with a family of four, including six-month-old Raffey and their spirited four-year-old Philippa, life is a juggle of motherhood and creativity. Their miniature sausage dog, Frank, is also part of the crew – currently on the mend after spinal surgery, and keen to get back to strolls along the Thames Path and ferry trips to the Waterfront Café. 

Raph & Rose was born just before Philippa arrived, but it was her birth that inspired Anna. “I realised how few options there were for fun, bold kids’ clothes that didn’t push outdated stereotypes. I wanted to create pieces that empower children to express themselves freely – clothes that are playful, practical, and don’t box kids into pink-or-blue categories.” 

From her studio space in Wallingford’s Ayres House, Anna designs, handmakes and packages every garment herself. It’s a one-woman operation, powered by purpose, creativity and a passion for equality – and backed by a growing community of loyal customers and fellow creatives. “Joining Ayres House Studios was a game-changer,” Anna adds. “It’s a real working family of artists and makers, and the support has been incredible.” 

Community is clearly at the heart of both the brand and Anna’s life in Wallingford. She’s a big supporter of local initiatives, including Wigod Way Children’s Centre, where she enjoys attending play sessions with her children. Favourite haunts include the Town Arms pub (“we were welcomed with open arms”) and the town’s independent shops – a reminder of her dream to one day open a Raph & Rose store in Market Square. Like all of us, she also loves BunkFest – the annual music festival that conveniently falls on her wedding anniversary – and the town’s buzzing Christmas and carnival events, where Raph & Rose usually has a stall. “There’s nothing better than spotting little Raph & Rose wildlings running around in my designs – it makes it all worth it.” 

For Anna, the dream is simple: to raise happy children, make joyful clothing, and continue growing her business in her home town. “Everything I do is stitched with love and intention,” she says. “And I hope that shows.” 

Shop the collection at raphandrose.com or visit Anna’s studio by appointment by emailing info@raphandrose.com