Hi everyone  — I’m Victoria, I’m proud to announce that I am now supporting the new owner of CITRUS - Trish Houghtling, to help curate the storytelling behind CITRUS’s unique designs. From writing captions and curating CITRUS's content and helping to bring the heart of CITRUS into the online space, it’s been an incredible privilege to help share the beauty and intention behind this brand.

And today, I wanted to share a bit about why this work is so meaningful to me, and how it feels like a full-circle moment.

I have been adopted twice, and in my first home, there were many hardships. We didn’t have much financially, but more than that, there was a real lack of safety and love. It was a difficult place to grow up, and as a child, I often felt isolated and unseen. But there was one thing that always made me feel safe: making jewelry.

I still remember walking into Goodwill or, on rare occasions, Walmart, and picking out a bead kit. Each time, it felt like Christmas. I’d bring the bead kit home, sit on my bedroom floor for hours, and string together bracelet after bracelet, necklace after necklace. Beading became my sanctuary. It was the one space where I felt calm, in control, and free to express myself in a world that often felt overwhelming.

A few years later, it was my first day of grade seven. I had just been adopted for the second time, and everything was new: a new home, a new city, a new school. Before I left for school that day, I layered on eight necklaces and stacked five bracelets on each wrist. I wasn’t trying to make a statement. I just needed to carry a piece of myself with me. Jewelry helped me feel strong.

What drew me to CITRUS (besides the jewelry!) is that it’s a company with values. It’s a company that cares about people, about sustainability, and about giving back. Whether we’re highlighting a cause close to our hearts or supporting a charitable organization through our collections and donations, there’s always intention behind what CITRUS does, and that matters deeply to me.

That’s why being part of the CITRUS team feels so special. Trish has continued to expand such an incredible brand since taking over as owner and designer. Her vision is rooted in connection, craftsmanship, and storytelling. And as CITRUS grows, it’s important to both of us that we do so with heart. 

Whether you’re a long-time CITRUS customer or new to our community, I hope you know how much we value you. I’ll continue to be behind the scenes (and sometimes in front of the camera), helping tell stories, highlight pieces, and make this space feel like a place you belong.

And if you’ve made it this far, I’d love to hear from you:
What’s your secret source of strength?
Trish and I both would love to know what keeps you grounded.

With love,
Victoria 🌷
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