Yesterday was one of those moments you don’t quite expect.
AJ and I were at Sandersons Department Store in Stroud, in the newly completed Five Valleys Shopping Centre, where the official opening was being led by none other than actress, presenter, author, campaigner and absolutely fabulous  Dame Joanna Lumley OBE. We have a jewellery stand in Sandersons and as she made her way through the store, she stopped at our cabinet. She spent time looking through the pieces before choosing one of our leather and gemstone cuffs – from our new Slim Classic  Collection – a black leather and Baltic Amber piece which suited her so beautifully. Baltic Amber is fossilised tree resin dating back 30 – 50 million years and it has been used in jewellery and amulets since ancient times, particularly in Greek and Roman cultures. 
What made it even more special was that Amber is often associated with Taurus ( which is her star sign). Amber is soothing, calming stress and overwhelm. It is grounding, warm, and connected to the earth. It suited her perfectly. Effortless. Understated. Personal.
She put the bracelet on… and kept it on.
For the rest of her visit. Through the conversations, the photos, and the official opening itself. Through a video recording for Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday. 
That’s the thing about these pieces.
They’re not just jewellery you try on and take off.
They become part of you.

On the way home, AJ and I were talking in the car and asking each other ‘did this just happen’?  Did we really speak to her, did we share a hug, did she walk away wearing one of our Freak Like Me bracelets…It truly was one of those days that stays with you forever. Because you rarely get the chance to meet your heroes, and even more rare is when they turn out to be as beautiful, warm, empathetic and kind human beings in person as they seem on screen. Dame Joanna Lumley was everything we’ve ever imagined and more, and we absolutely love that a piece made with our hands went home with her. 

AJ & Mila x