Rachel Wood was born in 1982 and lives on the Staffs / Cheshire border. After successfully completing her A-Levels, she undertook training as a photographic technician, and continued her education at Newcastle-under-Lyme College, where she specialized in 3D Design.  In the spring of 2001, Rachel made the decision to become a freelance designer following several years working for a local bridal wear company.

Despite the challenge of running a new business whilst simultaneously continuing with her studies at Art College, she set up the business and at the same time successfully completed the course. After the final exhibition of her coursework with the other students, she devoted herself to running the business and continued with work in digital imaging and album design.

Rachel is a trained Ballroom and Latin-American dancer, and also teaches dance classes following several years as a competitor and qualifying as a professional in 2008. In July 2010 she married her dance partner Steven Brandreth. Rachel Brandreth is based in house at Brides by Mandy Elizabeth (Staffs/Cheshire border) and continues to trade as Rachel Wood Designs.