I am so excited to finally share the big news with you! Last month I was chosen as one of "Valobra's Treasures," and was featured in River Oaks Living. Yes, that's me on the first page of the magazine in a full page spread (!!!!!). This amazing opportunity actually came about last September, and it has be so hard to keep "hush hush" about it for so many months.
Valobra Master Jewelers not only has the most exquisite jewelry I have ever see (can we talk about this necklace I am wearing?!), but the family has an unbelievable history that dates back to 1905. In 1905 they opened their first jewelry atelier in Torino, Italy, and became the official jeweler to the Italian Royal Family. In 1982 they opened their first US location in New Orleans, followed by Houston in 2006.
Fourth generation owner, Franco Valobra, created the “Valobra’s Treasures” campaign a little over a year and a half ago. He set out to honor the women in Houston who are making a difference. He carefully selects those who’s beauty is not just from the outside, but more importantly on the inside. They are not just sparkling gems, but are just as brilliant as they are precious. They are graceful in their efforts, and have multifaceted abilities.
The women who are chosen include philanthropists who give to their community and charities, professional women who are making a difference in the city of Houston, and women who are making a difference in their own families. Most of his Treasures are a combination of all the above, which makes them true Treasures to us all.
I am truly humbled to receive such an honor, and be bestowed the gift of being named a Treasure. The women who have previously been featured not only do I admire, but they also inspire me. You can view all the "Valobra's Treasures" at the end of the post.
Below is my interview with Franco Valobra that was featured in River Oaks Living:
Fourth generation owner, Franco Valobra, created the “Valobra’s Treasures” campaign a little over a year and a half ago. He set out to honor the women in Houston who are making a difference. He carefully selects those who’s beauty is not just from the outside, but more importantly on the inside. They are not just sparkling gems, but are just as brilliant as they are precious. They are graceful in their efforts, and have multifaceted abilities.
The women who are chosen include philanthropists who give to their community and charities, professional women who are making a difference in the city of Houston, and women who are making a difference in their own families. Most of his Treasures are a combination of all the above, which makes them true Treasures to us all.
I am truly humbled to receive such an honor, and be bestowed the gift of being named a Treasure. The women who have previously been featured not only do I admire, but they also inspire me. You can view all the "Valobra's Treasures" at the end of the post.
Below is my interview with Franco Valobra that was featured in River Oaks Living:
What was the first piece of jewelry you ever received or purchased for yourself?
I was born and raised in Vail, Colorado, and there's a jewelry store there called the Golden Bear. The Bear has become synonymous as the "symbol" of Vail, so for my kindergarten graduation my parents gave me a gold baby bear necklace and earring set. It was the perfect gift. I still wear them to this day, and have since added to my collection.
Tell us two of your qualities that make you a gem.
Creative - from my career, to philanthropic endeavors, I offer a unique perspective and think outside the box. I place my passion and experience into everything I do, and anything I'm involved with. As my father liked to tell me, do what you love, love what you do, and success will come from there.
Resilient - when I was younger, my mother would call me "the little engine that could" because I'm a hard worker, never give up, and have a positive, 'can-do' attitude.
Rubies, sapphires, or emeralds? And Why?
All of the above! Each of them are so unique. What I love the most about jewelry is that every piece has a story. Whether it's an heirloom, or a gift from someone (or yourself), you know that the piece has a special meaning and a history.
Share with us your pearls of wisdom.
My motto is "be the change you want to see in the world." We can't control everything or everyone, but we can control ourselves. When we put our words into action is when we start to see things happen.
Another pearl of wisdom I've continued to share with others is actually something I was told during a challenging time in my life - "If God brings you to it, he'll get you through it." It's never easy to see the light at the end of the tunnel when something bad happens, but you have to remember that you'll come out stronger and wiser in the end.
If you could click your ruby slippers together and transport to a vacation somewhere, where would it be?
I've been fortunate enough to have traveled to six of the seven continents and have been to 78 countries, so only choosing one place is hard! If I had to choose one though, it would be Egypt. I spent two weeks there a few years ago and absolutely loved every minute of it. Nothing can compare to cruising down the Nile River taking in the temples and riches of the past.
I was born and raised in Vail, Colorado, and there's a jewelry store there called the Golden Bear. The Bear has become synonymous as the "symbol" of Vail, so for my kindergarten graduation my parents gave me a gold baby bear necklace and earring set. It was the perfect gift. I still wear them to this day, and have since added to my collection.
Tell us two of your qualities that make you a gem.
Creative - from my career, to philanthropic endeavors, I offer a unique perspective and think outside the box. I place my passion and experience into everything I do, and anything I'm involved with. As my father liked to tell me, do what you love, love what you do, and success will come from there.
Resilient - when I was younger, my mother would call me "the little engine that could" because I'm a hard worker, never give up, and have a positive, 'can-do' attitude.
Rubies, sapphires, or emeralds? And Why?
All of the above! Each of them are so unique. What I love the most about jewelry is that every piece has a story. Whether it's an heirloom, or a gift from someone (or yourself), you know that the piece has a special meaning and a history.
Share with us your pearls of wisdom.
My motto is "be the change you want to see in the world." We can't control everything or everyone, but we can control ourselves. When we put our words into action is when we start to see things happen.
Another pearl of wisdom I've continued to share with others is actually something I was told during a challenging time in my life - "If God brings you to it, he'll get you through it." It's never easy to see the light at the end of the tunnel when something bad happens, but you have to remember that you'll come out stronger and wiser in the end.
If you could click your ruby slippers together and transport to a vacation somewhere, where would it be?
I've been fortunate enough to have traveled to six of the seven continents and have been to 78 countries, so only choosing one place is hard! If I had to choose one though, it would be Egypt. I spent two weeks there a few years ago and absolutely loved every minute of it. Nothing can compare to cruising down the Nile River taking in the temples and riches of the past.
Be sure to visit Valobra's new store, which just opened in River Oaks at 2150 Westheimer Rd. xo
You look so stunning! Love your taste of style!!!
ReplyDeleteI read your blog. Such a great information. You looks gorgeous in this dress.
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