In the Company of the JBx Women ft. Carolyn Yee
January 07 2019
When I was a little girl my role models were always the women in my life. We started this brand (The Jewelry Bx) to empower ourselves and other women to create and style the life they envision for themselves. We did not set out to only sell jewelry, we wanted to start a conversation with women about where they are going and what life are they leading in that jewelry. How does the jewelry make you feel? To that end we launched a monthly interview series on our JBx Blog called, In the Company of the JBx Women.
These are women we have been blessed to be connected to through business, family, or philanthropy. We ask the same 10 questions and are amazed at the remarks and insights provided by these women. We will publish and share them with you monthly through our blog so that you can get to know them too!
The more we share about each other the stronger the community and support we can give one another. There are so many women living so many different experiences, and we salute them all! We hope you will join us on our journey to showcase, support and discover what the authentic women in our life think about some very contemporary topics.Real women, Real answers....
I am so honored to be able to publish my favorite women who continue to teach me and inspire me every day. Happy 2019! This month I am so happy to introduce Caroyn Yee!
Carolyn reached out to us through Boston University where she is a student. She is a part of the marketing division of the Fashion and Retail Association (FAB) at Boston University. Every semester they hold a student-run fashion show, showcasing student designers and featured lines, and JBX has collaborated with them the last two fashion shows. We provide jewelry for their raffle. Last year we attended the Fall Fashion show and were wowed by the professional production quality of their event. It was their energy, and enthusiasm for their art and each other, however that won our hearts. Women supporting women is at the core of everything we do at The Jewelry Bx and being a part of their show in our small way was very gratifying. We supported them and they supported each other. It's that simple sometimes.
Many of our incredible customers are working women, moms, and wear so many hats. We pay special tribute this First month of the NEW YEAR 2019 to the younger women. I have been very lucky as I am partnered in The Jewelry Bx with two millennial women, my intern was an amazing hard working Business School Major, and many of the small businesses we encounter are run by younger women. They seem to get a bad rap at times. I am here to dispel any negative generalizations as a result of my personal experiences with these women on the move. I have never been so hopeful about the future of our communities as these women find their way and purpose into them. I am so encouraged about what is yet to be, and privileged to help and support them in any way that I can.
As more established women we have been through many experiences in our lifetime; professional and personal as we continue to move through milestones. In 2019 lets not overlook the opportunities we have to mentor, support, and communicate positively to these up and coming leaders, moms, etc. Even the smallest of gestures and acts of kindness, and always a role model all add up in life. These women are the present and future and I know we can certainly make an effort to make a difference in their lives.
We women currently have the spotlight- How do you think we can really support each other in this life of ours?
Women supporting women, especially today, seems more special than ever and really paves the way for our future. Seeing women stand up for their beliefs and being proud of who they are inspires and really motivates other women to do the same. This constant no-judgement and support we receive from each other brings all women together, and there is definitely something to be said about that. I’m the youngest of 3 girls, so my sisters are huge role models for me. They are so inspiring, and I want to be just like them. I hope to take what I learn from them and bring it outside of my family to help others. I personally believe that women should continue to show others that they are proud of who they are and when anyone tries to make them something they’re not, the best trait to have is confidence and self-love.
What in your life has brought you or given you the greatest satisfaction or fulfillment?
For me personally, the greatest satisfaction has been being a leader. My way of leading others is making sure everyone feels welcome and acknowledged. It seems so cliché and “the right thing to do,” but I believe action speaks louder than words. I genuinely enjoy going out of my way to help others. I believe in compromising and finding a common ground between people. Sure, part of that might be because I want them to like me, but for me, I don’t want them to like me for MY personal satisfaction or for the numbers. I want them to like me because they can connect with me, and me with them. I want people to remember me as someone who genuinely cares about them no matter their situation. I want everyone to know that there is always someone there who wants to be their friend, whether that’s me or not. If I can get them to know that, there’s no greater satisfaction or fulfillment.
What woman inspires you?
Recently, I’ve been extremely inspired by an inspirational speaker Mel Robbins. She is a
speaker and author of the book The 5 Second Rule, and her words and advice really resonate
with me. She came up with this 5 second rule method where, with any decision you make, you
have the power to change what you do in just 5 seconds. Whether it’s getting out of bed without
hitting the snooze button or asking your boss for a raise, you have the power to count down
from 5, not hesitate, and just do. Your confidence level goes way up and as you develop this
habit, you truly feel like you can do almost anything. She inspires me because she exuberates
confidence, and she can tell you exactly how she does that.
I feel most confident when...
I feel most confident when I’m with my true friends. We all have those friends that bring out the goofy, fun selves in us, but who we can also be serious with. If I’m able to just “be myself” in front of my friends, that is when I’m most confident. Most of the time I don’t even realize I’m being completely myself when I’m with them because I’m that comfortable with them. The fact that I don’t even think about who or what I want to be when I’m with my true friends definitely boosts my confidence.
I aspire to be a leader. Whether it’s an entrepreneur or CEO or head of a department, I want to be at a position where I can speak for people. I love communicating with others, and I’m normally the neutral person in relationships where I see both sides to everything. If I can use this to my advantage as a leader, as well as continue my values of welcoming others, I think I can be really successful.
How does jewelry make you feel?
Jewelry makes me feel feminine and classy. I never feel complete without my rings, earring, or necklace; they are my everyday staples. To me, jewelry dresses up every look, and it makes me feel confident. Especially when I speak, I like to use my hands a lot. I need my rings and bracelet on to make me feel super confident and beautiful. Some may think it’s ridiculous, but it makes me confident, and I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that!
What is your go to? Netflix or a good book
During the school year, my go to is definitely Netflix. I love watching shows and escaping in them to get a break from all the school work I have to do. It’s also a fun way to bond with friends and relax! In the summer, my go to is usually a good book so it keeps my brain going and I have more time to allow myself to invest in a story.
How would you define your personal style?
I define my personal style as classy and sort of “model off-duty.” I love fashion, and I always like to look put together. I love to dress very simply, but I will incorporate certain accents that tie it all together—whether that be with my shoes, jackets, or jewelry. I love styling and believe it says a lot about a person.
What are you known for?
I’m known for giving the most advice. I’m always that friend people go to when they need to make any sort of decision. I like to hear all sides and think it’s important people hear what they may not want to hear. I’m an open person and love it when people are open to me as well. I’m known as being a good friend, and truthfully that’s exactly what I want to be known for. I’m also known for never wearing the same outfit twice. Again, I like fashion, so the fact that people take note of this is really flattering!
What is your most memorable travel destination?
My most memorable travel destination is Paris. I’ve been there a couple of times when I was younger, but now that I can truly appreciate it as an adult, it’s amazing. The fast pace of everything is just what I like, and you really feel like you can blend in with the locals. I love the atmosphere and I will definitely go back if I have the chance. The views and scenery are also incredible. I will never forget my time there!
2 comments
I had the opportunity to see Mel Robbins speak a couple of years ago at a conference. She was inspiring!
I enjoyed reading this blog. Keep it going. 😊