Daily life has always influenced the CMD aesthetic, and in many ways our interlocking bangles represent the endless flow that is the ocean. While they appear confined, they actually roll together on and on, a beautiful symbol that encompasses the awe-inspiring waves of the sea.
Ary wanted to grow with us, and we love having her as part of the team, so we’ve rented her a studio in Trumansburg (four hours upstate from NYC) where we plan to begin building a small team who will handle much of our east coast wholesale production. The space is the perfect size for us to grow and build….so exciting!!
If you’re a frequent reader of our blog, you know that creating fine, handmade jewelry right here in San Francisco is the beating heart of CMD. We’re so proud (and grateful!) for it all: watching our designs come alive; a rockstar staff; an amazing neighborhood filled to the brim with other local creatives—the list goes on.
We love soaking up the sun coast to coast, and though our New York (via New Jersey) run is sadly coming to a close, CMD can’t wait to get back to The Golden State. Fall in the Bay Area is all about life au soleil—BBQs, music festivals, spectacular sunsets and long walks on the beach, just to name a few.
Much like my time, my heart is divided between two neighborhoods: the sunny mission, where the studio is located; and the beachside outer sunset, where I unwind at home. Both spots in this sweet city encourage artistry and originality, and I have a few neighborhood gems that keep me going with a smile on my face.
Every step of the CMD journey has been immensely rewarding, but there are certain milestones that make our heart sing oh-so proudly. Beyond being one of the most renowned places of modern design in Northern California, SFMOMA was an inaugural part in the creation of Colleen Mauer Designs.
This past weekend was the absolutely magical Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Fest in Golden Gate Park, and I feel so rejuvenated that I simply have to sing its praises. However, one cannot mention the glory of Hardly Strictly without giving due recognition to the late Warren Hellman.
As I close my eyes and think of the word “home,” I have a vivid image of the beach. Growing up on the Jersey Shore meant sand was between my toes on a regular basis. Salty air, crashing waves, screeching seagulls…these memories instantly conjure feelings of happiness, peacefulness and family.
Creating jewelry is my greatest passion, and I absolutely love doing it every day. The CMD studio is bursting with inspiration, productivity and laughter. But at the end of the workday I’m oftentimes thinking dreamily of my favorite creative outlet – cooking in my kitchen.
My love of craftsmanship spans far wider than design, especially in the form of food and drink. Artisan coffee, farm-to-table fare, distinctive wines, delicately prepared sushi; I revel in a well-made provisions. But number one on my decadent bite list is definitely oysters.