Kristel Cue first met Alex and Ani founder Carolyn Rafaelian as a student in New York in 2006. “She welcomed our college organization in her office for an inspiring career talk,” Kristel recalled.
After the talk, Carolyn gave each of the students a bangle. “It was to remind us to pursue our passion,” said Kristel, who got a Fleur de Lis bangle in Rafaelian Gold—something she still wears today.
Six years later, Kristel and her business partner Celine Tang decided to bring the brand, which has a solid following around the world, to Manila. “We saw a market in the Philippines for a lifestyle brand with real meaning to the wearer. Very few brands, especially in fashion, focus on creating a positive impact as its core mission,” said Kristel.
Their store in SM Aura has been a huge hit, both with long-time customers of the brand who discovered it while abroad and with new Alex and Ani fans.
Women stop by regularly to create their stacks. Yes, Alex and Ani bracelets are meant to be worn in a pretty pile on your wrists. Some women choose to build slowly, choosing bangles with charms that have a special meaning for them, while others amass an impressive collection in just one visit.
Kristel said, “They say building a stack can be quite addictive—which is true! It’s also a perfect gift item.”
In the Philippines, the bestsellers have been the Mother Mary and Four Leaf Clover designs, but Kristel’s favorite is The Path of Life: “I like what it symbolizes—strength, motivation, knowledge. Our Gypsy 66 wrap is also a great layering piece.”
On Dec. 14, Alex and Ani will hold a Christmas shopping event at SM Aura to celebrate the release of their newest collections—Night’s Mosaic, Buffed Epoxy and the highly anticipated Monopoly collection that was inspired by the classic boardgame.
Kristel loves talking to customers: “Hearing why they are purchasing Alex and Ani—whether for themselves or someone dear to them—can be heartwarming. The stories have been amazing, and we feel very lucky to be able to share this positive energy with people in the Philippines.”
Positive energy is important to founder Carolyn Rafaelian. She said, in this e-mail interview with Super: “From the beginning, the company’s purpose has been to create pieces that have meaning and a positive impact. To me, positive energy is love, kindness and making the best of each situation. It’s the driving force behind all things Alex and Ani, as well as in my own life.”
We asked Carolyn about the brand that she named after her daughters, her passions and her favorite bangles.
What inspired you to start Alex and Ani?
My father opened a jewelry factory, Cinerama, in Rhode Island in 1966. Working in the jewelry industry is a family tradition and something I’ve always been a part of. I grew up in an extremely creative environment with a supportive family. During the time spent in the factory, I experimented and created my own pieces. Ultimately, my passion became my enterprise.
What’s the most unforgettable thing your father taught you about jewelry?
That each piece you create is an expression of yourself, your individuality. I design each piece with the intention of empowering and inspiring others.
How does it feel to know that your brand has a lot of fans in the Philippines?
The whole experience is a blessing. The growth and progression of this company was very organic. As it grows around the world, I feel gratitude in my heart. It’s wonderful to know that our products hit home for so many around the world. It’s exciting! I plan to visit Asia soon and look forward to experiencing such a beautiful culture.
Which pieces are your personal favorites?
The “One People” bangle that both the Dalai Lama and I have. I created two: one for him and one for me. He blessed them, which was one of the most incredible moments of my life.
What’s your favorite stack to wear? Do you mix your metals?
I prefer to wear gold, but I do adore how the mixed metals look together; silver and gold definitely complement each other. My fathers’ gold chain bracelet and the One People bangle are always on my wrist. I wear what I am drawn to each day. New designs and other treasures that inspire me enhance my stack. These pieces are dear to my heart and soul…
We love that Alex and Ani has a lot of charity bangles. How do you choose which organizations to work with?
Ultimately it’s an organic process guided by the extraordinary team at Charity By Design (CBD). Each inquiry we receive is considered and valued. CBD empowers nonprofit organizations to reach their goals by sharing what we do best, harnessing the power of positive energy through innovative, creative design. It’s also at a price point that could potentially attract new philanthropists. We’re currently working on making Charitable Bangles available worldwide.
You use recycled material for your jewelry. Is the environment something you feel passionate about?
Yes, definitely. Using sustainable materials is another way of saying, “Product made with integrity.” Knowing where something is made, who’s making it, and what their intentions are make all the difference. We make a conscious effort to remain environmentally sustainable, support local economies, and through thought, prayer and intentions, create the finest American products.
What else are you passionate about?
Living a life that’s a real example of the power of positive energy. Outside of Alex and Ani, my passions include spending time at Sakonnet Vineyard, creating wines from the oldest vines in New England, and restoring a Rhode Island historic landmark, Belcourt of Newport. I love absolutely everything about my job. I’m truly living my dream.
What’s the best thing people have said about your jewelry?
My favorite story is when someone gives a bangle to a friend (or stranger) right off their wrist. This is so cool! It’s like this great, pay-it-forward effect where someone is like, “Hey, you’re dealing with something, I dealt with something similar… put this bangle on and let it remind you that you have what it takes to get through it.” This is powerful…
Do you have any tips for people who are starting to build their stack or buying bangles for their loved ones?
Alex and Ani products are created for wearers to feel empowered, enlightened and beautiful. Words are powerful, symbols are powerful and the wearer can experience this heightened sense of inspiration through our pieces. The best advice I would give is to select symbols that resonate with you or the loved ones in your lives.
source: lifestyle.inquirer.net
