In this episode of Tattoos & Torah our host, Rabbi Iggy, will explore the fascinating world of Marla Aaron, a visionary jewelry designer who is redefining the concept of jewelry with her eponymous collection. Launched in 2013, Marla's collection showcases her passion for bridges, hardware, and jewelry, captivating individuals worldwide. Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of Marla Aaron and explore how she is reshaping the boundaries of jewelry design. What started with a single lock has evolved into a diverse collection that can be worn in limitless ways, serving as "jewel tools" to complement and redefine the concept of "precious" in jewelry. While the collection boasts a sleek, industrial aesthetic, its inspiration is deeply rooted in the emotional and personal jewelry of the Victorian and Georgian eras. Over time, Marla Aaron has skillfully incorporated various elements to expand the collection's artistic range. Marla Aaron's rebellious approach to jewelry led to an innovative milestone in December 2017—the installation of their first jewelry vending machine at the renowned Brooklyn Museum. Embracing their pioneering spirit, Marla and her team are currently in the process of building additional machines to make their unique pieces even more accessible. The collection received further recognition in 2016 when it was showcased at the Museum of American Finance in New York City as part of the exhibition "Gold: Worth its Weight." This exhibit celebrated the collection's distinctive blend of artistry and craftsmanship, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. Embracing the power of social media, Marla and her team regularly unveil new designs on Instagram, providing followers with an exclusive first look. With an unstructured approach to releases, each design is a surprise, adding an element of excitement and anticipation for fans of the collection. Marla's philanthropic initiative, the #lockyourmom Project, is a testament to her compassionate nature. Single moms are gifted sterling silver Baby Heartlocks, specially created for them. This heartwarming project has touched the lives of hundreds of deserving single moms across the nation, showcasing Marla's commitment to making a positive impact. Prior to launching her collection, Marla accumulated over 25 years of experience in marketing and advertising. Notably, she played a pivotal role in the launch of Cosmopolitan Magazine in Spain and orchestrated unique marketing campaigns, including one that involved sending British sports cars home with recipients. However, her true passion lay in designing jewelry, and she pursued this calling wholeheartedly. Marla is an alumna of Syracuse University and holds a graduate degree in journalism from Columbia University. She currently resides in New York City with her husband, where she indulges in knitting and eagerly awaits visits from her children who are away at college. When not immersed in these activities, Marla devotes her time to designing jewelry and enthusiastically shares her creations and musings on Instagram, inviting others into her imaginative world. Follow on Instagram @marlaaaron Shop at https://marlaaaron.com Find us at www.tshuvahcenter.org Follow us @tshuvahcenter on Instagram Say hi at [email protected] Please subscribe, rate, review and share.