Her Story: Using The Past, In The Present, To Create A Better Future
Spotlight on Elena
It's no secret that our clients at Lauderhills are THE BEST, and Elena is no exception. Several years ago, she brought in a bevy of beautiful treasures to add to our estate case. People add to our estate collection for many reasons, but Elena's story was quite unique. Here is the brief interview where she shares her story...
Q: I understand there is an interesting story about the estate jewelry that you consigned with Lauderhills. Who owned the pieces originally? How did they wind up in your hands?
Elena: All of the pieces consigned were owned by my wonderful, amazing, paternal grandmother, her name was Gertrudis, but we always called her Grandma Chichi. She lived in Panama City, Panama where I was born and raised.
Q: Did you know if the jewelry was real or costume when you first brought them in the store?
Elena: I knew the value of some. Geneva was instrumental in educating me on some of the pieces. Some were old.
Q: What made you decide to consign the jewelry instead of keeping it for yourself or your family?
Elena: My grandmother did not even wear much of her jewelry. So when I was deciding, I only kept the pieces that had emotional meaning to me. I knew that by consigning with Geneva at her great jewelry store Lauderhills, the other pieces would find a wonderful new home.
Q: Even if jewelry isn't your thing, did you have a favorite piece? If so, what was it and why did it make an impression on you?
Elena: My favorite pieces are the few I kept. I have an 18K gold Virgin of Perpetual Help medallion that my grandmother bought for me in Mexico City when I was 15 years old. I've worn that medal everyday for 44 years! I also have a diamond ring that is unique in every way. I kept that ring because it was one of my grandma's favorites.
Q: I hear you did something pretty special with the money you received from the estate pieces that sold. Can you tell me a little about the volunteer work you do and the adventures you've had traveling the world?
Elena: The funds from the estate sale go to help with my support of children I met in Ghana in 2011. Since 2011, I've visited Accra, the capital of Ghana in West Africa, at least once a year. The funding has helped with whatever expenses are incurred in getting there and the supplies that I bring. Namely, school supplies, medical supplies, arts and crafts, clothing, etc.
We'd like to thank Elena for taking the time to be our VERY FIRST Spotlight interview. We have always been so impressed her generous heart and I can't think of a better example of someone using their blessings for good. Elena, we are so fortunate to know you!