These Hands | Lillian
These hands belong to Lillian, our amazing Head of People and Culture. Lillian is a big part of the NMJ family and is always there for our team to make sure our days are filled with joy, opportunity and growth. A kind-hearted creative, Lillian is known for her love of sport, the outdoors, and her infectious laugh which often echoes through the office in the best way possible. Get to know more about Lillian below...
Who do these hands belong to?
Lillian
What is your role at Natalie Marie Jewellery and how long have you been on the team?
I am Head of People & Culture, joining the NMJ Family in October 2020.
When did you first come across Natalie Marie Jewellery?
I came across Natalie Marie Jewellery many years ago on Instagram, one of the most liked in my feed. Over time more and more of my friends have been proposed to with an NMJ piece, so it’s special to now be part of a brand that is part of so many of my loved ones love stories.
Describe a typical day for you...
Typical day? No two days are the same! Generally my day starts with a workout, Meditation and playing with my cat, Star, whilst I have a coffee. When I arrive to work in Avalon I usually do a walk through of our Showroom & Studio to check in on everyone’s morning before heading over to the office in time for the morning coffee run with the team. From there it can be anything from jumping into a team meeting to see what each department is working on, a one-on-one catch up with a team member, talking strategy with Natalie & Daniel, and computer work when I can. I’m often not at my desk for long, and that’s what I love about this role, constant collaboration with the entire team. After work I head off to sport, be that Oz Tag, water polo or rugby (clearly, I am a fan of teamwork), before heading home for dinner and cuddles with Star on the couch.
What is your most treasured piece of jewellery?
My grandmothers ruby and diamond ring, which my mother gave me for my 25th Birthday.
What is your favourite Natalie Marie piece?
Oh so many! Most favourite would have to be my Golden Wattle Necklace, it is the first NMJ piece I bought for myself and this piece holds so much personal meaning for me.
Where would we find you on the weekend? How do you unwind?
Weekends are usually pretty busy for me. I love to get into nature so a trip to the beach or a coastline walk is something I always like to make time for to recharge. I love trawling local markets or a wander through an art gallery, usually with my Mum. You’ll notice my cute mani in the pictures, I’m a regular with Vic @mannequinhands – she is an absolute angel and my appointments with her are something I always look forward to. I treasure Sunday evening dinner and movie at my friend’s place, there is a big group of us who come together each week, it’s the perfect end to the weekend.
Coffee or tea? How do you take it?
Coffee first up, usually black and then I love a mid-morning Chai.
Beach, city or mountains?
If I had to choose one it would have to be the beach, but sometimes you need a little variety of location to keep you inspired and grounded.
What's the phone app you use most?
My messaging apps are the most used, and phone calls. For a bit of escapism Instagram but I am working on making sure I’m mindful in using it!
What inspires you?
My wonderful friends and family, a trip to an art gallery or antique store, and I will admit business journals. Inspiring all parts of my brain I suppose, and variety is so important for that.
Who do you admire most in the world?
My Sister, she is the most tenacious, driven person I know and an absolute pillar of strength for me in so many ways.
If you could live anywhere else, apart from Sydney, where would it be?
There is actually nowhere else I would rather live. I am a Sydney girl through and through. We have it all here, beautiful bush walks, coastlines and beaches.
What are you currently reading or listening to?
I’m currently reading Heart Sick, written by Jessie Stephens, a friend of mine, it’s brilliant!
I also listen to a lot of podcasts, one of my favourites being Offline by Alison Rice, always leaves me feeling calm, refreshed and aligned.
What are you most grateful for?
My beautiful group of friends and family. I really have the most amazing support network and I am so grateful to have so many wonderful people in my life. 
What are you most proud of in the last year?
There are two things; graduating with a Masters in Human Resources and then being welcomed into the NMJ family during a year where job prospects especially in HR were basically non-existent. I’m proud of the investment and faith I’ve had in myself and what I have achieved in doing that.
If you were not working at NMJ, what would you be doing?
Probably something completely different like sports physiotherapy and rehabilitation work! Definitely an industry that helps people achieve their best.
What is the best piece of advice you've been given?
Burn the nice candle, don’t save it for a better occasion, life is happening right now, every day is that occasion.
What is on your wish list right now?
I feel very lucky and abundant in my life at the moment, so am not wishing for much. However, I have had my eye on the Dali Ring for a little whole now, a girl can never be too adorned!
What is your favourite gemstone?
Parti Sapphires, the amount of colour and depth in those stones is incredible! It’s always special when one of the Bespoke team members shares with me an incredible stone they have sourced for a client.
PC: @tealily
