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How did you get started?

Even as a young teenager, I loved designing my own clothing, especially special occasion dresses. My mother is an incredible seamstress, and she would somehow bring everything to life, with only my rough sketch and description as her pattern. Thank goodness she was amazingly patient! My first involvement with jewelry was just out of college with a large fashion jewelry company. As soon as I moved to New Mexico and met my husband, Bill, I was immersed in our Southwestern culture, natural beauty, and the importance of bold jewelry. I was hooked!



What inspires you?
The natural colors and characteristics of gemstones inspire me to bring color together in fresh new ways. I also enjoy a very bold, active lifestyle, which is reflected in my designs. I am fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful landscapes, vibrant cultural traditions, and very passionate and creative people. Our New Mexico lifestyle provides many opportunities to be inspired.


Did you have a mentor? If so, who?
I truly believe that we all have angels in our lives who guide us in certain directions, primarily through their belief in us and their encouragement to accept greater challenges, even when we doubt ourselves. I was blessed to have such a person in my life named Dixie. She was Director of Advertising, Promotion and Public Relations at a regional, family-owned department store in Minnesota. She brought me under her wing when I was 16, and made me her assistant at 18. I worked closely with her until I graduated from college. Dixie continuously challenged me with new responsibilities, and gave me the opportunity to represent our company within our community, which was rewarding on many levels. These were the days when the local department store was a vital part of the community, so this was an exciting time to get involved in promotions and events that would benefit all. Believe it or not, I was terrified of public speaking before Dixie's encouragement! By the way, Dixie also drove a very cool turquoise sports car!


What is the best way to achieve long-term success?
Choose to do something you love, and never let opportunities or challenges distract you from your own definition of what is ethical, positive, and worthwhile. I measure my own success not by the dollars generated, but by the trusting relationships built, the joy our jewelry can bring, and the pride and success our employees feel.


What lessons have you learned since your career began?
You are truly in charge of your own destiny. Sure, there are challenges and situations beyond your control, but there are also opportunities around unexpected corners. If you remain positive, creative, committed, and true to your personal and business vision you will be able to weather the storms and look forward to the rainbows!


If you had one piece of advice to give someone starting out, what would it be?
Do something that you are passionate about, and surround yourself with positive people that you feel you can trust.


What has been your most satisfying moment?
When Relios was awarded the 2008 QStar for Merchandising Teamwork. This award was so special to me, and to my husband, Bill, because it truly does honor all of the people who make what we do not only possible but extremely rewarding on so many levels. Our Merchandising Team at QVC is absolutely the most dedicated and passionate group of people we could ever hope to work with. And we accepted the award on behalf of the hundreds of people at Relios who are so dedicated and passionate about creating our jewelry for our wonderful QVC collectors. The entire team, all QVC and Relios members, had a moment to celebrate what can happen when there is trust, passion, and commitment ― a true team.


How do you generate new ideas?

I am blessed to have a partner on my design team by the name of Susan. We have been designing together for 10 years, and have this incredible connection that ultimately comes through in our designs. She and I both love wearing colorful, unique clothing, and we usually base our wardrobe around our favorite jewelry designs. We are both very in tune with fashion/color trends, while enjoying our New Mexico lifestyle. I think that while we both love visiting the big city, we enjoy even more returning home and giving fashion our own twist.


What was your very first product?
A sterling silver angel/cross earring. When I first presented it on QVC, I opend my mouth and it seemed like an eternity before any words actually came out. I know, that is hard to believe!



How did the idea for your product line come about?
I had a desire to design jewelry that I would love to wear, and I hoped others with the same affinity for bold, colorful, expressive style would also appreciate!


What's the toughest part of running your own business? What's the most rewarding?

Toughest part - Turning it "off" at the end of the day. Most rewarding - Knowing that we have created a positive and thriving environment for a wonderful group of dedicated, skilled, and passionate people at Relios who truly love creating jewelry that people find joy in wearing.