This month, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to New York City as one of only 30 artists selected from across the U.S. and Canada to learn from the leadership team at Hermès. The experience was an immersive deep dive into brand storytelling, visual merchandising, e-commerce, and the art of building lasting relationships with clients. I could go on and on about the weekend, but I won’t overwhelm you with every detail—unless you'd like to grab a coffee sometime and chat!

One of the highlights of the event was when each of us was asked to share a single word that encapsulated our time together. My word was CLARITY.

For a long time, I’ve found myself experimenting with various metals—gold plated, brass, sterling silver, solid gold—trying to balance what my clients wanted with what felt true to my vision. But through this experience, I realized that fine jewelry is where my heart has always been. I’ve had moments of self-doubt, wondering if I truly belong in this space. If you’ve read my story, you know I didn’t come from a background of wealth. Growing up, finances were tight—bills sometimes went unpaid, and there were moments I felt like an outsider because I couldn’t afford the things my friends could.

But one thing I did inherit was the entrepreneurial spirit. My family was always hustling—juggling their passions with full-time jobs. That grit runs deep in me. And this trip to NYC crystallized that feeling of belonging. I left with a sense of purpose: to take up space in the places that once felt out of reach, to apply for opportunities that seem beyond my grasp, and to keep going, even when resources feel scarce.

For a while, I hesitated to shift toward offering more solid gold pieces. Part of me feared I might lose some of you. But I want to assure you that while my price points may evolve, my dedication to nurturing the relationships we’ve built remains unwavering. My hope is that we will grow together, and that one day you might invest in one of these artisanal, handcrafted pieces to call your own. Because when you wear one of my pieces, you’re wearing more than just jewelry—you’re carrying a piece of my journey. A story of persistence, resilience, and the belief that we can all carve out a place in the world, no matter where we started.

I am profoundly grateful for the experience Hermès provided. It's a company that has scaled globally but remains deeply committed to artistry and craftsmanship—one of the few luxury brands where every piece is still handmade. If you're curious about Hermès' fascinating history, I highly recommend checking out this insightful episode of the Acquired podcast.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Here's to clarity, growth, and taking up space where we belong.

With Diane Mahady, President of Hermès USA, during an unforgettable moment in NYC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nest Team, Hermès, Artisans