Our Story: The Meaning Behind RAPHAEL

RAPHAEL is more than a clothing brand. It is a story of family, resilience, and healing, born from one of the most challenging moments of our lives.

We are a family run business based in the Scottish Borders, and in January 2021 our world changed forever.

The Day Everything Changed

On 4 January 2021, our youngest brother, Clark, was involved in a serious car accident at just 17 years old. He suffered a severe traumatic brain injury alongside other life-threatening injuries. Doctors warned us that the road ahead would be long and uncertain.

Clark spent three and a half weeks in a coma and a total of four and a half months in hospital. During that time, he had to relearn the most basic human functions walking, talking, and eating. At one point, we were told he may never walk again.

Like many families facing trauma, we held onto hope because that's all we had.

Against all odds, Clark continued to fight.

A Date That Changed Everything

The Roman numerals V•XIV•MMXXI represent one of the most important days of our lives, the day Clark walked out of hospital.

That moment symbolised strength, determination, and the power of belief. It is a reminder that progress is possible, even when the odds are stacked against you. That date has since become a core part of our brand identity and meaning.

Turning Recovery Into Purpose

One of Clark’s long-term dreams had always been to own his own business. As he began his recovery journey, we wanted to find a way to support him, not only physically, but mentally and emotionally too.

As a family, we made the decision to help Clark start his own clothing brand. RAPHAEL became a way to reintroduce him to work, give him purpose, and build something meaningful together.

What started as a personal project soon became something bigger.

Why We Chose the Name RAPHAEL

We chose the name RAPHAEL after Archangel Raphael, known as the Angel of Healing and protection.

Throughout Clark’s recovery, we felt a constant sense of protection surrounding our family. Naming the brand RAPHAEL felt natural. A symbol of healing, guidance, and strength during life’s darkest moments.

Today, that meaning lives on in every piece we create.

More Than Clothing

RAPHAEL is built on the belief that clothing can represent more than style. Every design is created with intention to remind you that you are protected, resilient, and capable of overcoming adversity.

Raphael will protect you wherever you go.
A reminder of how far you’ve come and where you’re going.

We hope that when you wear RAPHAEL, you feel strength, confidence, and connection whether you’re facing challenges or celebrating how far you’ve already come.

Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey

By supporting RAPHAEL, you are supporting a family-run, independent clothing brand with real meaning behind it. You are helping us continue Clark’s journey, and share a message of hope with others.

From our family to yours, thank you for being here.