William P. Rayner attended Connecticut's Taft school and the University of Virginia before joining the workforce at Condé Nast Publications. There, Rayner served as editorial business manager and wrote articles for Vogue, House and Garden, and Vanity Fair, as well as for other international publications. He traveled extensively for both professional and personal reasons, perfecting his watercolor painting while on his many trips. His work has been heavily exhibited, including appearances in the summer show at the Royal Academy. Rayner continues to travel and paint.