Last week, Chloe + Isabel announced it would be closing its doors on July 31st. Unlike many other direct sales companies who announce their closure and shut the doors immediately, C+I is giving it’s faithful customers and merchies an opportunity to help them clear the racks with a great Semi-Annual sale and eventual clearing of all inventory.
A few of you who reached out when I quit my constant jewelry posts and combing for hostesses know that I saw this coming over a year ago.
When I discovered C+I following my mom’s death in 2013, it was my way of picking myself back up and putting my sorrow aside. I found wonderful new friends like my first leader, Amanda Nelson and my merchie sisters, Clara DiGuiseppe, Katie Wascisin-Hathaway and so many others. I got to be on the front lines of cool leaders like Gina Lucas, Jensine Reyes, Erin Dodd, Faye Calangian, Stefani Jacobsmeyer, Edlin Escobar, Malia Adams, Katie Johnson, Mallorie Corcoran and so many others. And of course, who can forget the woman who started it all, Chantel Waterbury.
We were a great group of women who ran successful businesses without the stress of recruiting, devaluing the jewelry constantly with sales and nearly impossible incentive trips. I loved the days when the Kate Spade purse or exclusive designs were gifted for my own personal sales, rather than tied to recruiting. My last SOAR conference, a few of us could see the writing on the wall when Chantel was replaced as CEO and suddenly all the cool girls were exiting stage left.
Many of these women are still my fashion icons in their bohemian style and savvy business sense. I’m still watching their success stories with other companies and of course Chantel’s new endeavor. I jumped in with both feet when Gina and Stefani started their monthly fashion box business.
I can’t begin to express how grateful I am to all of the wonderful friends I have met during my time as a merchie. There’s no way I would’ve met my friend Lisa Dusapin without her being a friend of a woman I met when I was booking a booking off an original connection. She will always be a friend - and I thank C+I for the mode of creating all of these special opportunities.
While I don’t have much inventory left, and some will always stay with me, I have taken a few minutes to place one last order. I borrowed the Queen Anne’s Lace set from my friend for my last trip to Vegas - but I always dreamed of owning it! I picked up the statement necklace and earrings for 40-50% off and I can’t say I’m that sorry about it.
Has there been a collection or piece that you’ve always dreamed about? You may want to check to see if it’s now on sale!
I can promise you one thing - I don’t think we’ll see the last of Chantel Waterbury. She’s one of the brightest women who understands the need for a great business base - and partnerships like the one she’s nourished with Ashton Kutcher and Jen Atkins. You may just decide to invest in a piece of history - and when you hear Chantel’s name you can say “I have a piece of her first business adventure!”
I love my life right now, even with my mom being gone, I feel stronger, happier and successful. I owe much of that to Chantel, my merchie sisters and new friends.
Much love,
Gabby
