I don’t have a traditional brick-and-mortar… and I like it that way.
For many years I was the proud owner of a storefront on Valencia Street in San Francisco — seven days a week, 56 hours a week. It was an absolute labor of love and one of the ways I truly connected with my community.
During the pandemic, my lease was up and I decided to close my doors rather than navigate a bi-coastal lifestyle while keeping it open. It broke my heart. But when I did, something unexpected happened: I felt like I lost a hundred pounds. The weight of being married to that shop had taken a toll on me and I was beyond exhausted.
It's like the Universe decided to guide me somewhere new. And when it did, I saw clearly that the traditional retail model wasn't for me anymore. Even when I found the perfect spot in Asbury Park, I wouldn't go back to that old way of doing things.
What I want to do now is the work that lights me up and fuels my fire: reconstruction, traveling, and pop-up events. Collaboration, connection and being on the go makes me so invigorated and motivated.
Open Hours happen once (or so) a month and feel more like an event than regular retail hours. You’ll find the displays up and the studio looking like a shop, but it’s an intentional shift. I’m opening a window into the studio, not running a daily storefront. Pop into an Open Hour or a pop-up to browse casually, make an exchange, or get sized. Those settings are perfect for quick visits and friendly, low-pressure conversations. Grab a friend and let’s hang and play at The Ring Bar, there’s so much to see!
When you book an appointment with me, I welcome you into my design studio world. While all the jewelry is set up like an Open Hours event, it becomes a focused and creative environment so I can give your piece the attention it deserves. For Reconstruction Projects or Special Occasion pieces I reserve a solid 45 minutes so we can sit together, talk through vision and history, and really start to envision together. These precious pieces deserve uninterrupted focus.
If you meet me at an event and bring an heirloom piece, I’ll happily take a look. I may not be able to give you the full, dedicated consultation right then and there, but I’ll start the conversation! I’ll give you my number so you can text photos; you don’t have to commit to anything yet, but it’s a good way to get things going.
If you want to show me what you have before booking a consult, text me anytime or we can hop on a quick 15-minute callto get started. After that we’ll book the 45-minute appointment for the real deep dive.
Look for me at pop-ups and monthly Open Hours around Asbury Park and beyond, or check the contact page to text or schedule a call. I’m happy to answer your questions and share lots of blog resources that you’ll love. Once we commit to a reconstruction, I’m thrilled to offer time, space, and full attention to your piece.
Metal is my medium. Connection is my craft. I can’t wait to dream up something super special with you.
See you at The Ring Bar,
Colleen
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