Imagination, they say, is one of the most powerful forces. And mine ignited early.

My grandmother, a professional seamstress, sparked my interest in fashion by patiently (though unsuccessfully) teaching me to sew clothing for my dolls. While my Barbie's wardrobe remained threadbare, the lure of high-quality fabrics captured my young heart. ​

Meanwhile, my mother taught me the ABCs of luxury via her stash of Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent lipsticks that littered her handbags, vanity and coat pockets. Her self-care routine was inextricably linked with the gilded logos that adorned each enamel tube. It was through her that I first discovered the beauty of branding.

My father, the proprietor of a local gas station, instilled in me a different kind of luxury. His focus was service – a windshield cleaned, oil topped off, a friendly conversation. It wasn't just about selling fuel; it was about creating a valued experience. His prices were higher, yet customers kept coming back. It was a powerful lesson in the transformative power of exceptional service.​

This merger – the exquisite materials used in each product and the care taken to deliver it – is what drew me to luxury. Combined with the heritage of a brand, the legacy of a designer and the narrative woven into the house itself – these threads tell a story far richer than a price tag. And that's something that truly inspires me.