Who do these hands belong to? 

Hi, I’m Shona!

What is your role at Natalie Marie Jewellery and how long have you been on the team? 

After over two years with NMJ, I’ve recently moved into the Head Designer Role. I’m deeply honoured by the trust from Natalie and the wider team, and very excited for all that’s to come.

Describe a typical day for you? 

Honestly, no two days are the same – which is something I love about my job. I can go from sketching up new designs, to pouring through spreadsheets of data, staff training on new product, or photoshoots alongside our Brand Manager. My favourite days are when I get to be truly creative. For me, seeing our products develop from initial idea, to campaign, final product and all the incredible collaborative stages that come between is my favourite part about my role.

When did you first come across Natalie Marie Jewellery?

I was aware of Natalie Marie from Instagram long before I moved to Australia. I’ve always been a fan of their unique design and conscious approach. Never did I think I’d end up working here and couldn’t be happier to have become a part of the incredible team here.

What is your favourite gemstone?

If I had to pick a favourite, sapphires would be the one for me. The complexity and range of colours tells such a magical story. One day I hope to have an Australian Sapphire to remind me of the life I choose here and all of the special memories I have made, and will continue to make here.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I’m actually searching for my next read. My top book this year has to be “A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara which was recommended to me by a friend. It took me on a huge emotional journey, and I couldn’t put it down. I’m someone who likes to feel all the feelings, very deeply, and this book fed my soul so much on that.

If you could live anywhere else apart from Sydney, where would you be living? 

This is such a tricky one. Having chosen to make Sydney home four years ago, I honestly would stay true and say I’m living a life I never imagined for myself here. I mean, I wouldn’t say no to having homes all over the world in incredible place I have visited. A townhouse in Paris, cottage at home in Scotland, beach hut in Sri Lanka – a girl can dream!

What's one thing that can instantly make your day better?

Spending time with friends, chatting with family back home, a long walk with my partner. I’m a people person and care deeply about those in my circle – they always bring me up when I’m feeling down.

What are you most proud of in the last year?

I am extremely proud of our latest collection launch: Anam Cara. This has been a six month+ project between myself and our incredible team of jewellers. It has been so special to be able to translate a concept I’ve held close to my heart for many years, into a tangible product to share with our NMJ community. I recently gifted a piece to my mum on my first trip home in many years. She gave me a bracelet when I first left Scotland for Sydney almost five years ago, and it filled me with pride to be able to return the favour. We each have a piece from the Anam Cara collection and it holds us close to each other even though we are many miles apart.

Who do you admire most in the world?

So hard to pick one. I always come back to Mum. She’s been a beacon of support through everything I take on – even moving to the other side of the world! She’s always taught me that holding empathy, compassion and understanding for all people, from all walks of life is of the deepest importance and this is a value I will always keep close to my heart. I am who I am because of everything she has taught me, shown me and given me space to become – forever grateful and can’t wait to squeeze her soon.

What’s something you’ve done, but you’ll never do again?

I love this question, and there are so, so many funny stories. Most recently, I roped my partner into making a headboard for our bed… We are both incredibly head strong, and it’s safe to say we won’t be taking on a DIY project together for a while – I’ve been sat on the naughty steps too many times!!

What advice would you give your past self?

Take a chance, believe in yourself – you’ve no idea the places it can take you. 

Care to share your best recipe?

I adore cooking for people! I’ll get the marketing team to attach my best  birthday cake recipe passed through my family. Otherwise – a medjool date stuffed with peanut butter and coated in dark chocolate – you can’t go wrong.

Describe yourself in three words.

I find these so hard – I get really awkward talking about myself! I like to think I am creative, compassionate and open-minded.

Are you bingeing any shows?

Always, love a good TV Show. I can’t lie, I’m back on the Grey’s Anatomy hype when I’m doing the dishes or folding laundry. Can’t beat it.


What advice would you give your past self?

Take a chance, believe in yourself – you’ve no idea the places it can take you.