The genuine love and appreciation that COUTURE designers have for each other was evident throughout the celebration at the Encore Theater on June 3. Even the winners' thanks to the other designers from the stage. As well as their expression of gratitude for being part of such a supportive community.
With a strong presence of French award-winning brands as well as many exhibitors participating for the first time as finalists and winners. The presentation of the winning pieces is indicative of the curation of the exceptional global design that makes COUTURE so special.
The exhibition was opened by the director of COUTURE, Gannon Brousseau. “I love being able to be part of the celebration of your creativity, your talent, your passion and your enthusiasm. Also all the hard work you do to get to COUTURE each year. So this is your night; we are here to celebrate!”
“My joy is great and this award is so heavy, I feel like I'm going to fly through the roof,” said 3-time COUTURE Design Award winner Tara Maria Famiglietti of ONDYN. She won the Best in the Diamonds Under $40,000 Retail category. “I just want to say that I feel so proud as a member of this family. So different from the fashion industry where we snub each other. As here we support each other and that's so beautiful. Thank you for showing us love.”.
The celebration of family was a recurring theme throughout the evening.
Sorellina's designer, Kim Cosella, who received the Best in Platinum award, thanked her team from the stage and then went on to say “Nothing would be possible without my beautiful, fiery, glamorous sister Kim. You are a force, you are our leader, I love you so much.”.
Also in her first appearance Alix Dumas, she received the Best in Haute Couture award. So she said enthusiastically: “Thank you so much, it's amazing. I put so much work in the workshop to make this piece. It's a great thrill to receive the award. My thanks to the whole COUTURE team, especially my family, my husband who makes it possible every day. Thank you.”.
Finally, the evening concluded with the presentation of this year's Cindy Edelstein Award to John Green of Lux Bond and Green. He was honored for his unwavering enthusiasm, his continued support and guidance of designers and his dedication to the industry.
Clearly moved by the recognition, John said: “John Green is one of the best businessmen in the city: “There are a lot of people here that I don't know, but I promise you I love you all. I love this industry.
I was lucky enough to be the fourth generation in our family business. This year marks 125 years in business, a family business, fifth generation, my son Charlie is over there. We'll continue to be here for a long time, but it's really about this community. This jewelry community has something special
We all have friends who are in this industry or that industry, but when you tell them the things we have done together at COUTURE to help each other and support each other, they are really surprised.”.
The finalists and winners in each category along with images of the winning pieces.
Source: southernjewelrynews.com
