Goodbye C+I - The End of an Era

On July 1, 2019 executive chairwoman Connie Tang announced the closure of Chloe + Isabel July 31, 2019 to it's community of merchandisers. The news came as a shock to our community. While the company put forth great effort towards growth and development, this nearly 8 year old jewelry empire simply could not achieve the trajectory necessary to withstand these hard economic times.

To say I will miss Chloe + Isabel is an understatement. When I began in May of 2016 I could not have imagined how far this journey would take me. I traveled to Montreal, Paris! But the real joy has been in the everyday conversations, sharing of ideas and inspiration with like minded women, and making of lifelong friends. I will treasure these jewels for a lifetime!

Be sure to shop your C+I wishlist before it's too late! Whether you've had your eye on the most recent Riviera Maya collection or have a mile long list you've created over the years, take advantage of the markdowns.

And please know that every purchase, every word of encouragement, every time you volunteered to host, to help, all of the shared pictures, every gesture big or small means more to me than words can say. This might be goodbye to C+I but I hope you'll follow me to the next adventure! It just wouldn't be the same without you.

What's in the Kit: The Chloe + Isabel Merchandiser Starter Kit Fall 2017

If you've been following my blog for years, you may know me as an Etsy shop owner and handmade advocate. Let's be honest, few people have the luxury of surviving exclusively on this type of income. I'm also a merchandiser with Chloe + Isabel. If you've stumbled upon this post, you may be considering becoming a Chloe + Isabel Merchandiser. Either way, this post is for you.

I can't wait to spill the beans on the must fun job I've had to date. I'll take you through the most commonly asked questions Chloe + Isabel jewelry lovers have when considering this unique opportunity. You may have come across the first article I wrote on the subject before reading this. This post includes updates and special promotions for September 2017. For the latest kit, click here.

Let's begin with the Q&A:

1. What's in the Kit?

There's an easy one, here you go!

(Newest here: https://moderntypography.blogspot.com/2018/05/the-pinnacle-of-network-marketing-paris.html)

You'll noticed it's changed a little since I joined. They still include a carrying case, catalogs, and order forms to get you started. Also, a variety of metals, mix of classic and modern designs, our signature wrap bracelets and plenty of convertible pieces (a feature that is sure to win over new clients).

The overall value of the kit is phenomenal, $800 worth of jewelry for just $175 (plus materials). But wait....there's more! This month only Chloe + Isabel is offering new merchandisers additional perks for joining, 6 pieces from the fall 2017 collection!

With the bonus kit included, the retail value is ~$1200! I wish my kit came with all this goodness!

2. Does Chloe + Isabel have a sales quota?

We most certainly do but you have 6 months to meet it, and it's $600. You'll accomplish this with your first party, I guarantee it. But I'm sure you'll see in time that this number more than reasonable. (This number was $100 in 6 months previously, this post had an update)

At this point you're probably thinking to yourself, it seems to good to be true. I was skeptical. But I assure you, the risk here is minimal. For me personally, I didn't consider it any risk at all, given I love the jewelry. There are absolutely no hidden fees or expectations.

3. What kind of discount do merchandisers receive?

Perhaps you are a kit napper, as they say. You want the goods! We offer a 30% discount to merchandisers at all times. When new items are released and during the first 30 days after you join, merchandisers receive 50% off!

4. Talk to me about commission.

All of our merchandisers start out at 25% commission. This pretty standard across brands. Merchandisers who reach sales goals can earn as much as 40% commission. Commission is paid monthly, or bi-monthly during special promotions, via direct deposit. Merchandisers are responsible for paying income tax as applicable.

In addition to commission, there are incentives for hitting milestones and goals. These vary from cash to free jewelry. Read on to hear about a special incentive I earned.

5. Is the website provided for sales and training easy to manage?

Absolutely. You'll receive your own website for sales with a unique link at no cost to you. The academy online offers a variety of tools to learn and grow your business. Additionally, you'll be assigned to a team where you'll receive support and encouragement. Our Facebook community is my favorite of all of the resources we have. You have someone at your fingertips 24 hours a day to answer questions, give advice and share ideas with.

6. Why C+I?

Since joining C+I, I've learned a lot about what sets our company apart from the rest. Our product is high quality, made to last. It's hypoallergenic and nickel free. Women can shop your boutique confidently, knowing that each piece is thoughtfully and carefully made. Sometimes the unexpected happens and beloved pieces break or arrive flawed. Our lifetime guarantee protects our customers from buyers remorse in any and all circumstances. Our customer service is top notch. Customers also love having a personal shopper, unique styles, a constantly rotating catalog and styling ideas.

Our merchandiser community is buzzing with the phrase "best kept secret" and I've found this to be true. With just 6 years under our belt, our brand is often a pleasant surprise to new clients. Our product is not sold in retail stores or on other websites. Our customers love to parade their exclusive jewelry around the office, on the town and out and about.

At this point the only question you might be asking is, why not? If you are wondering about the investment of time or energy, just know that our community of merchandisers is women from all walks of life. The beauty of this opportunity is that your experience will be as unique as you are.

Ultimately, I decided the opportunity was just that - an opportunity! An opportunity to learn and grow, provide for my family and do something fun! It has done all of those things, and so much more.

About a year ago, a friend of mine in direct sales posted a picture of a car people had earned working for their brand. I thought, that's outrageous, it's just a bunch of smoke in mirrors. Cut to September 2017, I earned a trip to Montreal. That's right, Chloe + Isabel is paying for me to go on vacation and I couldn't be more excited! If you're following me on Pinterest, you may have recently seen an influx of pins with travel ideas for this magical destination.

I'm not suggesting everyone who joins will achieve this, but it's definitely a real possibility. Chloe + Isabel sent me the beautiful leather passport holder in the picture above, underneath the Sunlit Savannah necklace. For the first time in my life, I feel like I'm really going somewhere.

Thanks for stopping by. Feel free to comment publicly or anonymously with questions. Even better, let's talk, online or in person (if you are in Orange County, CA) and answer any questions you might have. You can find me on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ChloeandIsabelInsideScoopVIP/

Last, I'll leave you with this thought. What is life, but one grand adventure? Read on here.

Chloe + Isabel Semi-annual Sale Suggestions Summer 2016

In case you haven't heard, Chloe + Isabel is having their Semi-annual sale! 20% of the shop is marked down to 40-65% off, with items from just about every category. Now is the time to shop for items on your wishlist, birthday and Christmas presents for friends and family, and new styles you've been thinking about trying.

Here are a few suggestions. Grab them before their gone!
Shop here: http://modernjewelry.co

First, I wear this piece often. It's the Geovista Convertible Pendant Necklace. I love that I can wear the 2 layers separately, together, or layer them with my longer pieces. The semi-precious stone is gorgeous, and the antique gold plate finish is easy to wear with casual tees, tanks and dresses.

I'm wearing it with my lunette long station necklace, which seems to go with everything! The Geovista earrings, cuff bracelet set, statement bracelet and stackable rings that match are all on sale, too.

There are also several exclusive pieces on sale, new and never before seen styles from our secret c+i jewelry box, or the candi vault, as we call it.

The crystal flower stud earrings are just perfect heading into fall, don't you think?

Pair them with this burgundy leather + baguette bracelet in berry, a never before released color!

This gorgeous combination is also available for the first time ever. The top one, the Midnight Palace Octagon Collar Necklace was a merchandiser exclusive, now available to all! 

It's shown with the Midnight Palace Statement Collar Necklace, which is also on sale at a steal. 

Which brings me to my next suggestion, try out something new! We all love our convertible necklaces, and gravitate towards delicate styles. But the statement pieces are going to take your look to the next level and get you a ton of compliments.

I've had my eye on this one for while. I can't believe the mark down! It's called the Dolce Statement Necklace. I love the vintage vibe.

Don't forget the matching earrings and statement bracelet. Get the whole look for just $129!

I love the Glacial Edge Bib Necklace, too. A versatile piece that really packs a punch.

The Aventine Convertible Statement Necklace is another great choice, one you can easily dress up or down. It's a little bit edgy with just enough classic, and the color combination is easy to style.

It's also a great time to add a few rings to your collection. Every single style shown here is marked down, 40-65% off!

From top to bottom, left to right: the malachite + pave ring, the medine turquoise ring, the portico nesting rings, the glacial edge statement ring, the alpenglow statement ring, the palm royale north south ring, the jardins du trocadero statement ring, and the retro pave cocktail ring, which also comes in coral.

All in all, 91 pieces are on sale, now through Monday, July 31st at 11:59pm EST, while supplies last! Ready, set, go!

Shop here: http://modernjewelry.co

What's In My New Chloe + Isabel Essential Kit

Remember the other day when I was talking about my new found love for Chloe + Isabel jewelry? Well, shortly after writing about it I popped over to Candice's house and picked up the summer catalog featuring the Amalfi coast. She happened to have her jewelry on display from a recent Pop-Up Shop and I got to see her amazing jewelry collection. What was meant to be a 5 minute hello turned into me asking a ton of questions and trying it all on.

(Enter, spoiler picture)

When I got home I looked through the catalog several times and got to thinking about this unique opportunity. You see, recently I gave up my job as a stylist with Stitch Fix because the commitment became too much. While I do run a successful Etsy shop, there are times when money is tight. I wondered, could this be the perfect work-from-home job for me?

The more I looked into it the more I realized that the risk was worth the potential reward. For just $175 Chloe + Isabel sets you up with the Essential Kit, a starter kit full of gorgeous jewelry and supplies to get you up and running.

(If you came here to see what's in the kit, I've written a more recent blog post with updates for fall 2017 here)

I've also come to a point where I want work to be fun. So, I took the plunge! My kit just arrived on Friday and I can't wait to show you the goods.

Everything came packaged in this fun little tote complete with 15 catalogs, order forms, wishlists, a display board and a bracelet display.

Wowza, there are 17 pieces in the starter kit! I realize they have varying values, but that's just $10 a piece. That's impressive, and I'm not even counting the non-jewelry stuff.

I realize most of you are just here to shop, so I let's get on with it. The piece I was most excited to get in the mail was the Morningtide Convertible Collar Necklace.

 I wore it to church yesterday with my light pink Loft Vintage Tee, my striped blue and navy Staccato cardigan and my favorite Dear John jeans from Stitch Fix.

It's definitely a statement piece, but the delicate colors and antique brass finish are subtle and easy to pair with everyday outfits. I switched out the chain for the rope and was surprised at how lightweight and comfortable it was to wear.

Find the matching earrings here.

My daughter wore the Pearl + Crystal Drops Long Necklace (shown below with the Pearl + Crystal Floral Filigree Earrings) over a navy fit and flare dress from  Forever 21 and she got a ton of compliments. 

She also had her eye on this one, the Mirabelle Petite Collar Necklace.

This is from our vintage inspired collection, a timeless piece I can see a modern bride choosing for her bridal jewelry or bridal party. The drop earrings can be found here.

The pieces all coordinate so well. Here's a look at gold toned jewelry from the collection together. The sneak peek at the top of this post gives a better close up with detail on the Tresors Toggle Bracelet. There are a ton of cute charms you can add to it, but I love the C+I charms that came with it. It coordinates well with the Retro Glam Square-Cut Crystal Bracelet just below it here. That one comes in a few other colors.

From the Sculpted Essentials collection they included the Interlocking Double Teardrop Necklace, Organic Link Toggle Bracelet, and La Lune Sculpted Click-Top Hoop Earrings.

Sometimes the best things come in small packages, like these gorgeous glam studs, the Beau Monde Stud Earrings.

 

It's difficult to capture the beauty of the stones in the Minaret Three-Row Convertible Necklace but in just the short time I've been working for Chloe + Isabel it's probably the most talked about piece. It comes in a few different combinations, something for everyone.

The convertible factor is absolutely my favorite feature on several of my new favorite pieces. You can wear the Minaret Necklace altogether, or separate each pendant.

I almost forgot to take a picture of the Bead + Chain Multi-Wrap Bracelet because it was the first thing I put on! This is the navy version, but I desperately want the Limencello version and the Rosegold.

All of the C+I bracelets I've come across so far have adjustable sizing, something I genuinely appreciate as a person with very small wrists.

Last, a special piece exclusive to Chloe + Isabel Merchandisers, the branch chain necklace. I'm wearing it right now! Here's a little sneak peek at my display post, coming up soon.

I love that the kit comes with a good mix of both silver and gold jewelry, everyday essentials and statement pieces to fit a variety of budgets.

So for $175, I received $700 worth of jewelry!

I think it should also be said that chloe + isabel, unlike many other direct sales companies, has absolutely no sales quotas. I honestly couldn't believe that so I think I asked half a dozen people to confirm it. Turns out it's true.

If you're thinking about becoming a Chloe + Isabel merchandiser, send me a message on Facebook so we can chat about how to get the most out of joining.

Not to sound hokey or typical, but I love being a part of something I believe in. All of our jewelry is backed by a lifetime guarantee and is nickel and lead free.

Thanks for taking the time to check out my Essential Kit and supporting my latest venutre. If you'd like updates on sales and promotions or just want to see more pictures of pretty Chloe + Isabel jewelry, follow my Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/chloeandisabel.melanierhoades/

Finding this post circa Fall 2017? Follow this link to the next. 

Happy Shopping!

Chloe + Isabel Review: Jewelry Essentials and New Pieces for Summer 2016

In case you hadn't noticed, I really love subscription boxes. I love fashion, but can't always find the time to shop. Stitch Fix has really helped fill in the gaps, and opened my mind to new styles I would have never tried before. My closet is bursting with new tops and jeans to wear this summer.

While subscription boxes are a ton of fun, they do have their limitations. I realized recently that I rarely keep or wear accessories others pick out for me. Perhaps it's because they send so few?

So, I began the search for a new way to shop for jewelry essentials. Many of my old favorites are tarnished or broken. Others just seem out of style.

I stumbled upon Chloe + Isabel and I think I'm in love! As a brand new affiliate blogging partner, they were kind enough to send me a few complimentary pieces and I can't wait to show them to you. If something catches your eye along the way, my affiliate links will take you straight to the item online.

First, a little about Chloe + Isabel, or C+I, for short. C+I is a New York based company specializing in high quality jewelry. While you can shop for pieces online, the latest styles come to life in pop-up shops hosted by spirited entrepreneurs. They offer a variety of both trendsetting styles (Chloe) and classic essentials (Isabel).

When I first saw the Crystal Square Pendant Necklace ($28) I just knew it would be a new favorite of mine. It's timeless style perfectly represents the classic side of C + I, Isabel.

This piece pairs perfectly with my antique wedding ring. Adorned with clear crystal pave, the simple square on a 16 inch chain with a 2 inch extender is just what I'm looking for in an everyday necklace. You can dress up a tee or wear it with a henley neckline for a bit of glam sparkle.

I also picked out these gorgeous Alpenglow Stackable Rings ($42) with semiprecious cloud quartz and blue and white mother-of-pearl. These will go with a lot of what I already have and flatter my cool, winter skin tone.

I wore these last Sunday to dress up a printed tee and jeans for a poolside party. It was the first time I noticed the different way each stone was cut and how they catch the light. I've got my eye on a beaded bracelet and a long station necklace to match.

Last, I picked the Sand + Sky Convertible Pendant Necklace ($52), which has probably received more compliments than the other 2 pieces combined. Looking through my jewelry, I noticed I have a lot of longer chain and layering type necklaces, but few short styles. I am really happy with the length; the 16/18 inch chain (with a 2 inch extender) is so functional.

The necklace is pictured here with the "treasure chest" #2 painted and gave to me for Mother's Day. Isn't he sweet?

The shape of the semi-precious amazonite pendant with pave accents reminds me of a Kendra Scott necklace I've been eye-balling. Honestly, I almost purchased one a dozen times but changed my mind because I wasn't sure of the quality. That's probably one of my favorite things about C + I, the lifetime guarantee.

Not only that, but for less than the price of a Kendra Scott, I got 2 necklaces in 1! I'm loving these convertible style. I can wear them together or split them up, and don't have to stand at the mirror wondering if they work together.

I was pleasantly surprised that the Sand + Sky Necklace perfectly matched the top I bought at Marshall's last weekend and wore them for Mother's Day!

Here's a picture of the convertible chain detail. Love! I thought I'd also mention that the chains are super comfortable, and don't slide around while you are wearing them.

The icing on the cake was this free Jardins du Midi Travel Candle ($28) and free shipping as part of a Mother's Day promotion.

I was absolutely shocked when my order showed up just 3 days after ordering. Each item was wrapped in a cute little drawstring bag, perfect for gifting or storage.

I was also very impressed by my local, lovely C + I representative. Candice contacted me shortly after I checked out and after my package was delivered to make sure everything was in order. I have to admit, her C + I story has me thinking about becoming a merchandiser myself. She loves the jewelry, was drawn to the C + I commitment to empower women, and joined to make a little extra money to travel (in style!). If you're interested in becoming a merchandiser yourself, you can read more about it here.

As I was writing up this blog post, an email popped-up about the new Summer 2016 pieces. I've already added a few accessories to my wish list, including the tortoise shell classic sunglasses on this gorgeous model.

She's also wearing the Lunette Open Cuff Set, Bead + Chain Multi-Wrap Bracelet, and Positano Convertible Layered Necklace

And I can't stop thinking about the Capri Statement Cuff below. This look is so very Racquel Welch, don't you think? You can find the rest of this collection, as well as the new summer styles here.

I'm meeting up with Candice tomorrow to get the new summer 2016 Chloe + Isabel catalog. The spring catalog is my new favorite desk accessory. The theme is "From Rome, with Love." She wants to show me a little stock, too. I'll try and snap a picture or 2 and share them on Instagram and Pinterest.

Which piece is on your Chloe + Isabel wishlist? I'd love to see what C + I pieces you're wearing so I can add them to mine!

Happy shopping!