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Twenty years ago, I boarded a flight west with a single suitcase, 400 bucks, a degree in Industrial Design, and a gut feeling that California might just be the place where I’d figure it all out. I didn’t know then that those foggy hills and eucalyptus-scented mornings would become the backdrop for the wildest, most formative years of my life. I also didn’t know that a few sketches, a lot of time learning and tinkering at the bench, and a whole lot of hustle would become the jewelry brand you know today as CMD.
This year, CMD is turning 20. And this summer, I’m so excited to be heading back to where it all began.
By the time you’re reading this, I’ll have started my travels throughout Northern California, living that van life for a few weeks. I can hardly wait to be reconnecting with the people and places that helped shape this journey. And yes, I’ll be popping up in two beautiful spots while I’m there (more on that below!). I’d love to see as many new and familiar faces as possible — including yours! So please... pencil me in. 💛
If you're new around here, let me back up a bit.
Back in 2001, fresh out of college and full of ambition, I moved to San Francisco with not much more than a few bucks and big dreams. It was somewhat of a struggle to find relevant work, and I ended up juggling jobs at a small furniture design company and waited tables at some well-known SF restaurants including Greens and Zuni Cafe. As grateful as I was for the work, I couldn’t shake the sense that something bigger was waiting to be built.
Eventually, I saved enough money to travel the world. I embarked on a six-month solo backpacking trip through Tonga, New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. That adventure cracked something open in me, and I came back to the Bay Area braver, bolder, and more in tune with my creative calling. I wanted to build something of my own. Something with soul.
CMD was born shortly after. It started humbly — working from a tiny Hayes Valley apartment, then out of studios, street fairs, and pop-ups. I never expected it to grow into what it is today: a brand that celebrates craftsmanship, community, and connection.
This summer’s trip feels like a return and a celebration. Last year, I traveled cross-country in a van for the first time — an 8,000+ mile journey that healed me in ways I didn’t expect. This year, I’m doing things a little differently. I’ll be flying west and renting a van once I land, so I can spend more time in my beloved NorCal without the cross-country trek.
I’ll be soaking up time with chosen family, visiting the places that inspired my earliest designs, and yes—bringing CMD to two of my favorite West Coast spots:
If you’re local (or know someone who is), I’d love to see you there. Bring a friend, build a stack, and say hello! These events are about more than jewelry — they’re about connection. They’re a chance to share stories, honor where CMD started, and toast to where we’re headed next.
In 2020, I made the tough decision to close CMD’s San Francisco shop (my lease was up!) and relocate to Asbury Park, NJ — just a few miles from where I grew up. It was bittersweet. San Francisco gave me my wings, but the East Coast gave me my roots. After nearly five years of living in NJ, the west coast truly feels most like home to me. I’m currently envisioning living that bicoastal life and how to make that possible. It’s a work in progress so stay tuned as the journey continues.
Now, our small-but-mighty CMD team handcrafts every piece in Upstate New York, and I meet with customers virtually or in person by appointment or at our Asbury Park Shop & Studio during open hours and at events. It’s been a big shift, but the heart of CMD hasn’t changed.
We still believe in slow fashion, small batch craft, and thoughtful design. CMD jewelry is still made to move with you through every season of life. We still believe in meeting you where you are — and that’s why these pop-ups matter so much to me.
Twenty years in, I still feel like I’m just getting started. This trip west is both a thank you and a love letter — to California, to this community, and to every person who’s supported CMD along the way.
Whether you’ve been with me since the 25th & Valencia days or you just discovered us this week — thank you. You’re part of this journey now, and I hope to meet you on the road.
Want to follow along while I’m out west? Text TELLMEFIRST to +1 (833) 993-0491 for pop-up reminders, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes van life moments.
Here’s to 20 years of connection, craft, and chasing the spark. I can’t wait to see you soon!
xo,
Colleen
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