Like Father, Like Daughter...

Like Father, Like Daughter, A Father's Day Tribute from the CITRUS Bench

Growing up, I never fully understood what my dad did for work. I just knew it was important, and it had something to do with money, literally. He worked at the British American Banknote Company in Ottawa as a plate fitter, helping to create the engraved plates that would eventually print sheets of Canadian dollar bills. That sounded pretty official to me as a kid. What I didn’t know then is just how closely his world and mine would one day align.

Fast forward to today, and I spend my days hand-stamping personalized pendants in our CITRUS studio. One day, I posted a video of myself stamping, and my dad casually pointed out that I wasn’t using any kind of guide to align the letters. That moment turned into a conversation I’ll never forget. He explained how, back in his day, they numbered the metal plates using individual stamps, a hammer, and a lot of precision, exactly the same tools I use now to create our jewelry.

It blew my mind. I had no idea that the tools I work with every day are the very same kind my dad used decades ago in his own craft. And it wasn’t just the tools, he even gave me advice on how to align each piece better so the letters are straight (and yes, our pieces are still what I call “perfectly imperfect,” but they’re definitely straighter now thanks to my dad’s pro tips!)

It feels like a beautiful twist of fate. I’ve always believed I was drawn to CITRUS for a reason, and now I know why. This little stamping bench has become the heart of our workshop. Even cooler, the stool I sit on, gifted to me by my Dad, belonged to the master engravers who once engraved the original designs for Canada’s currency. There's something really special about knowing that legacy lives on in every piece we make.

This Father's Day, I’m feeling incredibly grateful for the unexpected ways our stories intertwine. For the lessons passed down, even unknowingly. For the quiet strength and steady hands that taught me so much, both in life and in craftsmanship.  Thank you dad, love you!

To all the dads, and to the daughters shaped by them, this day is for you.

Celebrate Father’s Day with a gift that tells a story.
Whether it’s a custom piece stamped with a meaningful word, date, or set of initials, let’s honour the connections that last a lifetime.

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