Holy Week in San Miguel de Allende

For two full weeks, San Miguel de Allende is transformed with parades, processions, prayers, and pageantry filling the streets.  But for me, one of the most moving traditions is Viernes de Dolores—Friday of Sorrows.

Living in the center of this colonial city, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing these breathtaking altars for 25 years, and no matter how many times I see them, they still stop me in my tracks.

On the last Friday of Lent, homes, courtyards, and storefronts open their doors to reveal altars dedicated to the Virgin of Sorrows. Nestled in niches, perched on windowsills, or spilling onto the floor in elaborate designs, they are stunning displays of faith and artistry. Filled with candle light, white lilies, chamomile, and bitter oranges—all symbols of Mary’s grief, humility, and pain. Purple fabrics flow symbolic of her mourning, and wheatgrass, pale from growing in darkness, slowly turns green in the sun, a living metaphor for resurrection.

Every altar tells a story. Some are simple and intimate, others grand and intricate, but all reflect the Virgin’s sorrow as she watched her son’s suffering.

Us locals know the traditional family altars that each year offer a sweet treat—ice cream, popsicles, or pumpkin desserts—symbolizing the Virgin’s tears.

This tradition dates back to the 1600s, brought by the Spanish, but today, it is something uniquely ours—rooted in the heart of Guanajuato and the Bajío region. And every year, as I walk these streets and take it all in, I am reminded why I never tire of it.

San Miguel’s Semana Santa is something to be felt, not just seen. And if you’re here, you’re part of it.

As a designer, there are those moments of panic when the pressure hits, and it’s time to come up with something new and unique for the season.  But just when I think there are no more original ideas, the universe puts something inspiring in front of me!  

In the case of the Peace Cross Collection, the pressure to create something new came easily.  Each season, I refresh this collection with new pieces, staying true to the core message of peace while adding fresh energy.  The possibilities are endless, and every season, I am inspired to create more pieces that capture the timeless significance of the peace cross. 

The Peace Cross is one of our more delicate pieces, designed to be subtle yet powerful. Whether worn as earrings, a necklace, bracelet, anklet, or choker, it serves as a reminder of the balance and serenity we all seek. A timeless symbol of harmony, balance, and unity, the equal armed cross represents the balance between different forces, the coming together of opposites, and the unity we all seek in our lives.

These latest additions to the Peace Cross Collection are particularly special, featuring a newly introduced circle link chain and Austrian crystal pearls. The combination of these elements enhances the delicate beauty of the peace cross, creating pieces that feel both timeless and modern.

This collection carries the vibration of unity, with hope that the even-sided cross resonates with you as a symbol of peace and protection.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.

 

Hi Angels,

It's Finn, the designer and creative force behind every piece of VSA jewelry you own.  Inspiration is what feeds a creative, and I'm fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, seeped in history and beauty at every turn.  So much of the inspiration behind my jewelry designs comes from my love for Mexico and its sacred traditions.  Each tradition has an incredible story that gets translated into a collection.  I don’t design pieces that are just beautiful—I design pieces that carry the meaning of the tradition behind them.

I believe there is a vibration that resonates from my inspiration that then carries through from the artisans who bring them to life with their devotions.

A Retablo is a framed piece of devotional art, rich in folklore and faith. These depictions of Virgins, Saints, and Angels don’t just decorate a space; they tell stories of miracles granted and prayers answered.

Retablos have always fascinated me—how they capture moments of divine intervention, whether surviving an illness, an earthquake, or any other life-altering event. These small paintings are like heartfelt thank-you notes to the divine inscribed with personal messages of gratitude. I wanted to bring that same spirit into this jewelry collection, creating wearable blessings that hold meaning to the wearer.

Every piece in this collection is designed to be more than just an accessory—it’s a symbol of protection, faith, and devotion. Whether you wear it as a reminder of your own journey, gift it to a loved one, or simply cherish it as a work of art, I hope each piece feels like a personal blessing, a connection to something greater.

Our Retablo Jewelry Collection is more than just a series of designs—it’s a gallery of wearable blessings, each one waiting for your story, your prayer, and maybe even your own little miracle.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me.

 

So, picture this: the fabulous ladies of Virgins Saints & Angels gathered for our annual team meeting—serious business, right? But little did they know, a whirlwind of fun was brewing behind the scenes!  

As we dove into our agenda, I secretly hatched a plan worthy of a Hollywood script!  I arranged for a costume rental, a stylist, a makeup artist, and a hair wizard to sneak in through the backdoor—shhh, don’t tell anyone!

Momentarily stepping away under the guise of a “bathroom break,” I burst back into the room like a scene out of a fairytale, donning a dazzling quinceanera dress that could rival a princess!  With the flair of a true showstopper, I flung open the double doors and exclaimed, “Who’s ready to eat CAKE?” 🎂

The looks on their faces were priceless—pure shock turned to giggles as we celebrated not just our hard work, but the joy of being a team!

 

As if on cue, the fabulous crew appeared, arms full of colorful dresses and outrageous wigs!  Because let’s be real—what’s better than a good old-fashioned dress-up party? We threw on those wigs and outfits, and the afternoon turned into a fashion runway of personalities!

 

With everyone decked out and looking stunning, I summoned the pièce de résistance—the CAKE! 🎂 When they asked if I wanted it sliced, I shot back a resounding “No way!” I had a plan! As the cake was placed right in the middle of our sparkling setup, I shouted, “Dig in, girls!” and, without hesitation, I dove right in, hands first!  

The giggles were contagious as one by one, everyone followed my lead. And just like that, we captured the moment with a snapshot titled “Let Them Eat Cake!”  We spent the rest of the day in stitches, still rocking our fabulous outfits, dancing our way to the local coffee shop, where the fun only continued!

 

This was more than just a silly afternoon—it was a spectacular team-building adventure that brought us all closer, creating memories we’ll be referencing for years to come!

 

...Because at Virgins Saints & Angels, we believe in mixing a sprinkle of serious with a splash of fun in everything we do!   

 

Wear It & Believe!

Love,

Finn

Hi Angels!

Can you feel that? It’s not just the change of seasons—it’s the universe conspiring to bring you something fabulous. 

Our latest Spring collections are about to drop, and trust me, they are nothing short of divine. Picture this: the legendary Jesus de la Cruz (yes, Jesus himself—coincidence? I think not) working his magic behind the camera, while the radiant Emilia channels celestial energy into every shot. The result? Pure visual poetry. The images are already gracing our site, and I dare you not to swoon.  And where did we shoot this heavenly campaign? Right in my home in the enchanting San Miguel de Allende, because why not bring a little extra magic to the mix?

Let’s talk about The Basilica Collection. My personal love letter to Rome—where Romanesque grandeur flirts with Gothic drama, all wrapped up in that signature VSA mystique. The vision came to me last September (divine intervention? Maybe), drawing inspiration from the four great Basilicas of Rome.

This collection carries a Vintage Spirit, evoking memories of VSA’s early days in 1999, when I first introduced Gothic Glam, a style that began my career as a designer. 

The Basilica Collection launches just in time for the Vatican’s 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope—a sacred time when the Holy Doors of the Basilicas open, inviting reflection, renewal, and deeper spiritual connection to the divine.

Some wear my designs for their style, others for their deeper meaning. Prepare to be blessed, adorned, and absolutely obsessed with The Basilica Collection.

Wear It & Believe!

xoxoxoxo

Finn

February is the month of love, a time when we think about our hearts in all their fragile, ever-changing states. Our hearts can shift in an instant—from euphoria to bliss, contentment to heartbreak. Some heartfelt moments are beyond our control, while others come from desires that may or may not be real.

For those who have collected VSA over the years, you know that each of my collections carries a special meaning. I always say that some wear my designs because the meaning resonates with them, while others wear them simply because they love the fashion. As a designer, of course, I want women to wear my pieces, but what I cherish most are the stories I receive about miracles and the deeper connections my designs have created.

The Meaning Behind the Caged Heart Collection

My newest collection, Caged Heart, is a reflection on the importance of nurturing our hearts. The inspiration behind this design comes from the image of the heart sitting inside our ribcage—protected, yet yearning for attention. When neglected for too long, the heart seeks escape, becoming lost in the process.

I know, in the end, it is just a piece of metal in a particular shape. But to me, the Caged Heart serves as a daily reminder to nurture our hearts and prioritize self-love.

Small Acts of Self-Love

Self-love doesn’t always have to be grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s as simple as:

Sharing a deep belly laugh 

Treating yourself to a solo movie night with your favorite mix of popcorn and M&Ms

Indulging in a soothing facial or a long, luxurious bath

Savoring an extra-long hug from someone who means the world to you

Taking a quiet moment to journal your thoughts and dreams

Wearing a piece of jewelry that reminds you of your worth and resilience

Whatever it may be, the Caged Heart is your reminder to cherish and nurture your heart every single day.

Here’s to a February filled with love, both given and received.

Wear It & Believe!

With love,
Finn & The VSA Team