Blog

It took years of trial and error, but I stuck with it and always believed that if I worked hard, I could make anything happen. Starting a business takes at 26 take a lot of courage and perseverance, but I knew that living my life as a creative is what I was put on this planet to do.

Running a small business has so many facets and while it can be so rewarding, it can also be challenging at times. But, at the end of the day when I walk out of my shop, I look up at the CMD sign and feel so grateful because it reminds me of where I started and how far we’ve come as a group of women on two coasts.

Solid gold is the most valuable form of jewelry you can buy, and is typically a really solid (get it?) investment. It’s long-lasting, can be worn beautifully and well over a lifetime, and handed down or sold years and years after the initial purchase. A solid piece can last forever if it’s cared for properly.

I’m all about quality, durability, and style. When I began designing, my desire was to create a collection of classic, elegant jewelry that would be long-lasting and affordable. I believe that everyone should be aware of the quality metal they’re purchasing when investing in jewelry.

Now, every person is different, and that’s a wonderful thing. Some prefer dainty. However, I prefer stacks. This is why you can find so many stack ring options at CMD. We even have a ring bar at the showroom, where you can create your own stack and really express your own sense of style.

I often get asked what my favorite part of being a designer is. For me, it’s surely the creative design process – the part where I sit down, put pen to paper, and sketch and sketch and sketch. When I’m in the studio by myself, there’s something about the quiet that allows my brain to flick on… well, on a good day anyway.

Pure silver generally needs to be polished and cleaned on a regular basis to prevent tarnish. Similarly, oxidation can be buffed out of the silver over time, especially on pieces you wear often. Rings and bangles are usually subject to more friction, oils, water, and general wear than earrings or necklaces so they’ll likely fade quicker.

Lots of my customers mix shapes and sizes when they’re at the ring bar, and it totally works for them. Your jewelry style and pairings should be an extension of your own style. If you’re a person who mixes patterns and accessories, don’t stop to think twice. This is part of the fun of creating your own stack!

My mom is one of the most amazing people in my life. Living 3000 miles apart isn’t always easy, but we manage by getting on the phone together nearly every day.  My mom is a woman I have always admired – she raised me, my brother and sister on her own while working as an elementary school teacher.

Even though Sam loves being a part of the CMD team, it was becoming too much (nearly 1.5 hours/day, which we all know is not a very good quality of life). After some team brainstorming and good planning meetings, we got her set up with her very own home studio. I am thrilled we could make this happen!

This time of year has different meanings and feelings for everyone…this I know. For anyone out there also hustlin’ this December, remember to take a moment and savor some of the magic. For anyone out there who also feels down or lonely this time of year, remember that you are loved and to be really good to yourself.