Brands may come and go, yet those that fuse an engaging story with quality products leave a lasting impression. Daily Drills—known for its eagerly awaited collections and essential everyday wear—exemplifies this perfectly. Beyond that, the brand embodies a refreshing philosophy of leisure, expressed through innovative colors and comfortable, stylish fits. Daily Drills encourages us to prioritize rest, play, and self-care for a meaningful, grounded life.
Inside the life of co-founder Mary Ralph Bradley, it's clear that the brand draws inspiration from the daily rituals she shares with her best friend and co-founder, Kennedy Crichlow. Bradley's lifestyle reflects a relaxed yet purposeful rhythm, filled with beach strolls, ocean swims, and plenty of Aperol spritzes. In a time when success often hinges on a captivating backstory, founders like Bradley embody the lifestyle their brands promote. Her love for sunsets and beach vibes shines through, making her the real deal.
Mary Ralph Bradley on Crafting an Invigorating Daily Routine
Bradley represents a dynamic approach to launching. While many remain caught up in planning, she and her co-founder, Kennedy Crichlow, chose to jump right in. "I always dreamed of starting my clothing line," Bradley shares. When Crichlow proposed launching an apparel brand, she seized the opportunity. "A week later, we had a name and logo, formed an LLC in a month, and launched our first collection four months later."
This demonstrates that when passion fuels your choices and you have the right product lineup, success is attainable. We caught up with Bradley at her Southern California home to discuss everything from achieving a laid-back California vibe to the key lessons she's learned throughout her journey. It's clear from our chat that Mary Ralph Bradley is just beginning.
What has your entrepreneurial journey been like?
It's been an exhilarating ride over the past three years. Daily Drills launched in 2020 when Kennedy texted me about starting a clothing line. At the time, I was running a social media business with my sister, but I'd always wanted my own clothing brand. So I jumped in! Within a week, we had a name and logo, formed an LLC within a month, and our first collection was out just four months later.
I launched Daily Drills from my Brentwood apartment a year after graduating college, and now I'm married, with an office and a full team just a mile from my home in Palisades! This journey has been filled with fun, learning, and plenty of moments that made me think, "How did we pull that off?"
The best part? I share this experience with my best friend and business partner. No matter what happens, I have someone to toast with after the wins and a partner to lean on during challenges.
What have you learned in the past year?
- Plans can change, and that's perfectly fine!
- Collaboration is key. Just because I can handle things solo doesn't mean I should! Working as a team, whether with my partner or in my marriage, is always more rewarding.
- Quality over quantity! I strive to say yes often, but I've learned to be selective, ensuring my yeses truly matter. Embracing spontaneity is great, but I don't need to agree to everything.
How would you define your personal style?
Effortless. Oversized. Stylish.
What does a typical morning look like for you?
I begin my mornings with a walk to Palisades Village with my husband to grab my favorite coconut iced tea from Alfred. Afterward, I return home to prepare for the day.
I choose my outfit, style my hair, apply makeup, water my plants, tidy up, and head out. Plus, I film my outfit of the day!
My office is less than a mile away, so I arrive around 9 AM. I focus on work until lunch at noon, then tackle more tasks until 5 PM. Afterward, I handle any filming or brand collaborations scheduled for that day. I wrap up with dinner with my husband, sometimes catch a show, then off to bed!
When do you typically wake up?
I aim for 6:30 AM. The coffee shop opens at 7, so that's when I like to be there. Ideally, I get nine hours of sleep, but red-eye flights have made that tough lately.
What's the first thing you do after waking up?
I open the window shades to let in natural light and make my bed.
What does your morning routine entail?
I enjoy a morning walk and chat—it's a great way to set a positive tone for the day, soak up some vitamin D, and connect with my husband. If he's not available, I use that time to catch up with my sister or mom.
What are your beauty essentials for the morning?
Beautycounter Counter+ Lotus Glow Cleansing Balm
Shop NowBeautycounter All Bright C Serum
Shop NowBeautycounter Countermatch Adaptive Moisture Lotion
Shop NowShop NowAfter my walk, I shower and do my makeup simply.
Kosas Revealer Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer and Daytime Eye Cream
Shop NowShop NowPatrick Ta Major Sculpt Crème Contour & Powder Bronzer Duo
Shop NowShop NowWhat do you typically have for breakfast?
I normally skip breakfast before work. I'm all about that iced white coconut tea! I find I feel better waiting until around 11 or 12 to eat.
What's a staple in your refrigerator?
I prefer a *a la carte* style fridge—think sparkling water, charcuterie items, a bottle of wine, and seasonal fruit from the farmer's market.
Shop NowWhat are your morning rituals?
Walk, chat, tea, get ready, outfit of the day, and go!
What books do you love?
Love Does by Bob Goff is a favorite.
What's on your nightstand?
A glass of water for the morning, my Hatch alarm (a great way to wake up), a jewelry dish, and my phone.
Shop Now
What's your favorite getting-ready soundtrack?
I'm a country music fan! I tell Alexa to play today's hot country hits!
Do you work out in the morning?
I always go for a walk. I enjoy Pilates at a local studio once or twice a week, and I often add a Megan Roup Sculpt Society session after my walk.
What's your daily outfit like?
For walks: Daily Drills Go! Set.
For work: white tee, jeans in winter, poplin shorts in summer, a Jenni Kayne sweater in my bag, tennis shoes, and a work bag.
Shop Now
If you had an extra hour every morning, how would you spend it?
I'd love to take a morning dip in the ocean if I had time to wash my hair afterward!
What are a couple of things you do daily to live more mindfully?
My husband and I cherish our "Gentle Hours," a practice we started during Covid. We aim to avoid work, news, or stressful discussions from 10 PM to 8 AM. It's been incredibly beneficial, and our friends help us maintain this balance.
If you could attribute your success to one thing, what would it be?
I've always been authentic to myself and true to my passions. Consistency has been my guiding principle. Once I set my sights on a goal, I find a way to achieve it. That's been my nature since childhood.
Sentence Finishers:
I never leave home without: an iced green tea or sparkling drink!
If there were more hours in the day, I would: jump in the ocean, stretch, and hydrate more.
Healthiest morning habit: making my bed.
Worst morning habit: I do hit snooze once.
One trait I want to be remembered for: my kindness.
What I fear most: the dark!
When I feel that fear, I: set the alarm and play a worship song.
A book I always recommend: Love Does by Bob Goff.
One trait needed for success: a good sense of humor.
Shower or bath? Shower! My go-to product is Neutrogena Body Wash and Oil.
