The Mes Amis Story
In French, "mes amis" means "my friends." So the name "Mes Amis Jewelry" was perfect to describe how my love of making hand-crafted jewelry began. But I really chose the name because of my mom. I named my business after her, because her nickname was "Mes Amis" (something derived from her helping my sister and I study French back in high school). The name was quickly shorterned and she was affectionately known by all of our friends and family simply as "Mes."
Mes was an amazing artist, although she wouldn't think so. She studied art in high school, but never persued a formal degree. When we were growing up, she encouraged drawing and crafts and creative projects with my sister and I all the time. I found myself drawing and writing little stories on any scrap of paper I could find--and she lovingly kept every one of them.
Her greatest gift was her support of the creative spirit in others, especially young artists. Once when she found out her friend's son was short on money to buy his first drum set, she slipped him enough for the last payment so he could pick them up. He got those drums, probably drove his mom crazy, and today, he is an accomplished musician composing scores for major motion pictures.
Over the years, Mes created many wonderful pieces -- wreaths, ornaments, paintings, sculptured angels, and even jewelry. Her jewelry making included melting glass on copper findings in a kiln and exploring the lapidary arts. She made pendants, earrings, cuff-links, and tie-bars and we still have a few of her cherished pieces.
The Signature Swirl
Mes would always draw swirls when she doodled, and her copper kiln pieces each contain a distinct swirl of colors as she blended the melting glass. This swirl design has become my "signature" for each piece of Mes Amis Jewelry. Each necklace and bracelet contains a hand-tooled swirl on the clasp; and my signature swirl necklace piece features the Mes Amis swirl.
I lost my mom in the summer of 2004. I think of Mes and miss her every day. I think she would have loved the fact that I am making jewelry. I know her creative spirit lives on in me and Mes Amis Jewelry.
Je t'aime, mes amis.
Jackie
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