GLDN

GLDN

GLDN Yue necklace.

I started my jewelry collection in August 2019. Advancing age had finally compelled me to consider what heirloom-worthy items I was going to leave my future grandchildren. I hadn’t been a jewelry wearer prior to that noteworthy month, but I immediately took to a few pieces whilst browsing online. One of these was a necklace from a company called GLDN. Chrissy, the brand’s founder, started her business on Etsy in October 2012. The Etsy shop is still active, but I prefer to browse the impeccably-designed independent website. It wasn’t difficult to select my first piece from the handmade offerings.

My GLDN journey began with the Yue necklace. Since I didn’t know what length would flatter me or if I’d like the product, I ordered it in 14k gold fill with a disc void of personalization. When the package arrived, I opened the padded mailer to reveal a grey box. The dainty necklace inside had a brilliant glimmer, and I knew in an instant that I was meant to have the 14k solid gold version instead. After trying on the initial piece, I was able to determine the appropriate length for my neck. I also came to the conclusion that the necklace wouldn’t be complete without an engraved letter M. Returning the product to La Conner, Washington was simple, as was reordering the Yue necklace to my specifications. I also acquired the pleine lune necklace in 14k solid gold. Each necklace arrived with a special handwritten note from their makers, and I still admire them from time to time.

Dear Reader, I hope that you make 2021 special in your own way. May the year ahead shine brightly for you. Bonne année.

Works Sighted

GLDN Yue necklace

Useful Holiday Gifts (Les Femmes)

Holiday gifts for women.

Finding a gift for everyone on your holiday list may be stressful. Thus, it is important to keep a few things in mind. A gift is supposed to be a symbol of your love and affection for someone else. It’s the thought that really counts. Being thoughtful doesn’t have anything to do with the amount of money you spend. If all else fails, a gift card (perhaps, from a local establishment) will do just fine. For someone who has everything, consider donating to a charity in his/her name. World Vision and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust come to mind. The gift of membership to a local museum may also be worthy of your consideration.

cashmere sweater / vase / photo frame / necklace / jewelry box

travel capsules / cashmere comb / pouch / wine tote / book / notepad / notebook / small notebooks

photo album / straw basket bag / cashmere wrap / travel candle / mug

lunch bag / luggage tag / key chain / tote / picnic basket

How to Get Ready for a Virtual Meeting

Warby Parker Jennings glasses, GLDN Yue Necklace; and J.Crew slim perfect shirt in linen.

It has come to my attention that some people aren’t dressing appropriately for their virtual meetings. Although you may not dress as professionally as you did when you were going to the office, I implore you to put an adequate amount of effort into your on-screen appearance. Connecting with your coworkers via Zoom or a similar platform instead of face-to-face doesn’t give you license to show up unkempt. It goes without saying that you should be fully dressed from top to bottom. Please don’t skip the bottom half because you think no one will see it. Anything could happen; you could be asked to stand up for a brief team stretch one day. Footwear is the only aspect of your look that is optional.

For meetings of a professional nature, a button-up shirt will look just fine. I usually opt for a white or blue shirt and an A-line skirt. Aside from my everyday stud earrings, I accessorize with either a dainty gold necklace or a silk scarf around my neck. I make sure my hair is ready for the camera, and if the situation warrants a little extra polish, I’ll take a few minutes to apply a bit of tinted moisturizer, brow pencil, eyeliner, and mascara.

When the time comes to turn on the webcam, I utilize a white wall with decorative molding for the background. I want people to pay attention to me (not my belongings) when I speak. I level my laptop with my face and shoulders for the best vantage point. My standing desk has been particularly useful to this extent, but, even when the desk is raised fully, I still require a few books to elevate the computer the rest of the way.

I realize that most people who started working from home due to the current state of things may not have a home office or a space that lends itself to a makeshift one. As with everything in life, you’ll have to do your best. You may not be able to orchestrate every aspect of your setup perfectly, but you can put on a clean, wrinkle-free outfit, do your hair, and make sure your face is presentable. With a bit of creativity, you should be able to raise your laptop or webcam to a height that flatters your face. Also, I shouldn’t have to point this out, but I will for good measure: attending virtual meetings whilst in bed is not professional behavior. Your coworkers shouldn’t have to look at your bedsheets, no matter how nice they are.

If you’re congregating with friends, no one should care what you or your background look like; a friend is someone who accepts you regardless of your appearance. However, I suggest that you show up to your virtual happy hours looking presentable so that those closest to you aren’t left to unnecessarily question your wellbeing. Of course, if you haven’t been doing so well in the current situation, it’s a good idea to confide in trustworthy friends and family members. But, if you’re thriving, there’s no need to give those closest to you the impression that you are unwell.

Works Sighted

Warby Parker Jennings glasses (old); GLDN Yue Necklace; J.Crew slim perfect shirt in Baird McNutt Irish linen