20 Things I’ve Learned in 20 Years of Business

Twenty years ago, I was in my mid twenties and I was fueled with intense creativity and blind ambition. I was just a young, courageous gal with a hammer, torch, and a dream. I had no roadmap, no investors, and no idea where this path would take me. What I did have was grit, curiosity, and an unstoppable urge to create. Two decades later, CMD has grown into a small-but-mighty brand with a team I love, a community I treasure, and designs that still light me up at the bench.

As CMD turns 20, I’ve been reflecting on what these years have taught me — about jewelry and adornment, running a small business, and the journey of life. Here are 20 crucial lessons I’ve picked up along the way:
 

1. Start scrappy.

CMD was born out of a tiny Hayes Valley apartment with a regular desk and some very basic tools. You don’t need a perfect plan or fancy equipment to start the journey — finding the courage to begin is the hardest part.

2. Quality over shortcuts.

I’ve said it before: I’d rather make fewer pieces at higher quality than compromise. Incredible craftswomanship, thoughtful design, and true integrity matter more than cutting corners.

3. It’s all about the people.

Whether it’s our tight-knit team, our customers, or the mentors who shaped me — this business is built on relationships, not transactions.

4. Creativity has no rules.

My best ideas rarely come when I’m “trying.” They inconveniently show up in the shower, on a walk, or while cooking dinner. Inspiration has a wild mind of its own.

5. Small numbers can be mighty.

We are four women (and one pup) running CMD across three states. Respect, trust, and shared values make a small team powerful. I feel like we’re a little family.

6. Every piece tells a story.

From heirloom redesigns to milestone stacks, jewelry carries memory, meaning, and connection. That’s why I do this work.

7. Imperfection is part of the magic.

Our annual Metal Madness Sale taught me that customers often love the quirks I once thought were flaws. Handmade means human, and human means beautiful.

8. Hustle with heart.

Yes, hard work matters. But so does intention. Every piece we send out carries a piece of our energy — and I want that to be love, not burnout.

9. Leadership is listening.

Some of CMD’s best systems, collections, and ideas came from Ary, Sam, or Kelsey. Leading isn’t having all the answers — it’s empowering others.

10. Stay scrappy and resourceful.

Rising gold prices taught me to think creatively with remnants and offcuts. Limitations can actually push us toward innovation.

11. Connection beats perfection.

A handwritten note, a belly rub for Miglia, or a heartfelt appointment often means the most to someone. I’ve been known to give out lots of hugs, I can’t help myself.

12. Change is survival.

Moving our production to Upstate New York, relocating from San Francisco to Asbury Park, pivoting during the pandemic — change is scary, but it keeps us growing.

13. Celebrate the small wins.

Every order, every open-studio visit, every new follower matters. A business is built brick by brick, not overnight.

14. It really does take a village.

CMD is women-owned and women-run, yes — but beyond that, it’s propped up by family, friends, mentors, and our community who cheer us on every day.

15. Sustainability is non-negotiable.

Using every scrap of metal, sourcing responsibly, and paying fair wages isn’t optional. It’s the only way forward.

16. Business is personal.

I’ve written notes to customers who became friends, danced with clients at concerts, and cried on calls about memorial jewelry. This isn’t just a job — it’s life.

17. Rest is part of the work.

Slow mornings, tub soaks, walks with Miglia, van trips out west — the pauses make the hustle sustainable. Balance is key.

18. Feedback is a gift.

From customers who push me to make something custom, to employees who spot a better way, I’ve learned to see feedback as collaboration, not criticism.

19. Trust your gut.

From my first move to California to bold design decisions, or confidently changing course in challenging times... intuition has always been my best compass.

20. Keep falling in love with it.

Even after 20 years, I still get that ‘kid-on-Christmas-morning” spark when I dream up a new design, when a customer lights up trying on a new stack, or when a new sketch becomes something tangible. That passion and excitement is what keeps me forging ahead.
 

Two decades in, I still feel like CMD is just getting started. I’m endlessly grateful for the lessons, the people, and the pieces that brought us here. Thank you — truly — for being part of this story.

Here’s to the next 20.

xo,
Colleen