On January 22nd, my husband and I attended the Fashion Group International’s 13th annual Rising Star Awards at Cipriani on 42nd Street in New York City. What a gorgeous space! Originally a bank that was built in 1921, it is now a wonderful venue that embodies old world charm, especially with its Italian Renaissance-inspired decor. Picture this: Sky-high ceilings, monumental marble columns, and oversized chandeliers. It’s easy to feel like you’ve been transported to a different world and time (when men walked around with top hats, coat tails, and umbrellas). My kind of place.
The annual awards, which were created by this 82-year-old global organization to recognize emerging talent, took place during a luncheon with some 500 people from the fashion and design industry—all of whom I greatly respect and admire. Imagine being in one large room with so many people who inspire you. Nina Garcia, the fashion director at Marie Claire magazine and judge on the hit TV show “Project Runway,” was the keynote speaker.
As if attending such an event weren’t enough, I was also thrilled to be a finalist for a Rising Star Award in the category of Fine Jewelry. It was so flattering to be up against some very gifted designers. Sorry to sound cliché but I truly felt happy just to be there. Past winners in the fashion category include extraordinary designers like Jason Wu and Tory Burch.
As I sat there totally consumed by the moment, I suddenly heard my name being called. And it wasn’t by my husband. It was over the microphone. The award announcers for the Fine Jewelry category, Amedeo Scognamiglio and Roberto Faraone Mennella (the gentlemen pictured with me above), had just named me the winner. Winner! I looked over at my husband in total disbelief. I was so honored and surprised.
Standing in front of all those people was, needless to say, a humbling experience. Still I loved every minute of it. To win an award for something I love to do and am so passionate about is amazing! Thank you to everyone who supported us with enthusiasm all the way.
If you want to read more about this incredible event, check out W magazine editor Venessa Lau’s great article that she posted that day.
xox,
M
P.S. Be sure to check back this week for our next My Heirloom featuring Maria Bartiromo, the anchor of CNBC’s “Closing Bell with Maria Bartiromo” and managing editor of the nationally syndicated “Wall Street Journal Report with Maria Bartiromo.” I photographed her with her precious heirloom earlier this month, and let me tell you, this one is surprising! You won’t want to miss it…
Published on January 25, 2010
While there are many sites today dedicated to the pursuit of fashion and style, here at MRK Style we approach these subjects through a collector’s lens. Through exploring how people relate to Art, Family, Fashion, Food, Film and Travel—essentially life’s various, everyday obsessions—we reflect on how we all live with the things we love. 
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