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As we enter the last few months of the year, I find myself reflecting on one of my key goals: fostering collaboration within our local community. In the past year, I’ve craved the warmth of face-to-face connections, the kind that brings people together, igniting a sense of belonging.
There’s something incredibly special about hosting pop-up events where both new and familiar faces gather. Over the summer, my events almost felt like surprise parties… never knowing which familiar faces would walk in the door next. I experienced this firsthand during my recent travels when I hosted pop-ups at both Cavallo Point and Abode. It was amazing, and each moment filled my cup to the brim. When you show up at my events, I can’t tell you how much it means to me. I love getting real face time with my amazing supporters and clients. It makes me love my job that much more.
That’s why I’m beyond excited to announce this weekend's upcoming Ring Bar Pop-Up at Patriae, a beautiful store in Asbury Park. I’ll be showcasing my handcrafted jewelry alongside the stunning creations of owner Barbara "Babs" Pisch. Here are the details you won’t want to miss:
Patriae is not just a shop; it’s a labor of love that embodies Barbara’s rich heritage and passion for craftsmanship. Born in Slovakia to a family of tailors and fiber-craft experts, Barbara relocated to the U.S. at the age of seven. Her connection to her roots shines through in every piece offered at Patriae. The name “Patriae,” meaning “homelands” in Latin, reflects the principles and aesthetics derived from her family history.
Babs began her journey in textiles over twenty years ago, crafting unique items from antique textiles she lovingly collected to connect with her Slovakian heritage. In 2016, she opened her textile showroom and sewing studio in Asbury Park, which has since evolved into a vibrant store and gallery featuring both new and vintage goods.
At Patriae, you can find a collection of original goods—including iconic tote bags and pouches—crafted from antique handwoven hemp and linen textiles. Each piece carries a story, echoing the traditions of subsistence farming and women’s handwork from her homeland. You'll also find a sparkling smattering of CMD jewelry at Patriae!
Collaborating with local businesses like Patriae is a vital part of building a strong community. It’s amazing to see how our clients and communities intertwine. Babs has her dedicated clientele, as I have mine through CMD. When we come together for events, we create an experience that enriches everyone involved. It's the most fulfilling thing for me as a small business owner — truly.
As a team of five women, we at CMD pour our hearts into each piece of jewelry— from stacking rings to necklaces and custom orders. Our handmade creations, designed in Asbury Park and crafted in our production studio in Upstate NY, aim to connect people through meaningful jewelry. Every sale is a cherry on top of the joy I feel when I meet new faces and hear their stories.
Being part of the Asbury Park community has allowed me to cultivate this new kind of connection—where small businesses, makers and community shakers can come together, share our passions and collaborate in a way that benefits us all, and create a sense of belonging. It takes time and effort to build a community, but events like the Ring Bar Pop-Up make it all worthwhile.
So, whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to my work, I invite you to join us at Patriae this Saturday. Come explore the CMD collection, play at The Ring Bar, meet Babs, see her gorgeous store filled with unique pieces, and celebrate the beauty of community and collaboration. Together, let’s make Asbury Park a thriving hub of creativity and connection!
I can’t wait to see you there,
Colleen
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