“She’s a Firecracker.” | A 4th of July Chat with Lisa Valastro

Our July VSA Spotlight Angel talks family, food, and her favorite charms.

Some women light up a room—and then there’s Lisa Valastro. Known for her firecracker energy, killer meatballs, and no-nonsense heart, Lisa has always been the real deal. You’ve seen her on Cake Boss, but behind the cameras, she’s the glue of her family, the queen of Sunday sauce, and a full-blown VSA charm stacker.

We caught up with Lisa ahead of the 4th of July to talk about fiery family traditions, the power of protection jewelry, and why she never skips taking the photo.

What’s one tradition you always keep alive this time of year?

Lisa: Getting everyone together. We cook, we eat, we laugh, and then we watch fireworks. That’s how it’s always been—it’s all about family.

Where does your fire come from?

Lisa: My kids. I always say, if I can be better for them, I will be. They push me to grow and show up strong.

Who’s a firecracker woman in your life?

Lisa: My sisters, 100%. We’re really close, and we’re all totally different—but that’s what makes it work. They’re my sounding board, my ride-or-dies.

What’s your Sunday sauce secret?

Lisa: No sugar. I throw in a carrot instead. Trust me.

Most-requested dish at home?

Lisa: My baked macaroni and my meatballs. I make the best.

Describe dinner at your place.

Lisa: Loud! But in the best way. We’ve always got people over, music on, food everywhere. It’s never lonely—we share everything.

How did you discover VSA?

Lisa: I was at Nordstrom and spotted a Magdalena. It reminded me of a rosary—I thought it was the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen. I was hooked.

What kind of jewelry do you gravitate toward?

Lisa: Anything that protects. I love the San Benito and the cross. If I’m wearing it, it’s gotta feel powerful.

How do you stack your pieces?

Lisa: Depends on my mood. But I always include something protective—it’s just who I am.

What’s your go-to power outfit?

Lisa: Rocker-chic with a little girly bling. Think leather, band T-shirts, and sparkle.

Favorite VSA piece?

Lisa: Easy. My San Benito rosary and my Magdalena. I never don’t get a compliment when I put them on.

Favorite saying?

Lisa: Take the picture. Doesn’t matter what anybody thinks about how you look—how you feel about yourself, that’s what matters. So don’t miss out on enjoying life and yourself!

Here’s to the loud tables, strong women, and their jewelry!

Lisa, you’re a real one and we love you for all that you are and more!  Happy 4th, Angel.

Lisa’s Firecracker Picks | Product Spotlight

Powerful, sacred, and bold—these are the pieces Lisa stacks again and again.

1. San Benito Magdalena Necklace (Black + Gold Combo)

A layered stunner made with shimmering jet-black crystal beads, dotted with radiant San Benito medallions. Lisa’s signature protection piece. She wears it day or night—every compliment proves why.

2. Sacred Heart Cross Earrings

Romantic and reverent. Featuring intricate gold crosses beneath mini sacred heart cameos. A favorite of Lisa’s for Sunday dinners and statement moments.

3. Smoky Crystal Magdalena Necklace

A softer take on the classic, these smoky quartz-hued beads add a cool contrast to her bolder stacks. Gold framing adds warmth and protection energy.

4. Virgin Mary Charm Pendant

Lisa’s original VSA find. This delicate gold-framed medallion surrounded by crystals is reminiscent of vintage rosaries. She spotted it in Nordstrom and never looked back.

5. Toggle Magdalena Necklace (Black Crystal)

A minimal, everyday power strand with a front toggle clasp. Lisa wears this one solo or layers it in to ground her heavier stacks.

6. Crystalized Cross Earrings

Elegant and timeless, these medium-weight earrings make any outfit feel sacred and strong. A go-to when Lisa’s dressing up for family celebrations.

7. Black Bead Cross Hoop Earrings

For extra drama. Featuring gold hoops, black bead drops, and a central dangling cross, these earrings are Lisa’s version of bold protection.

8. Madonna Retablo Ring

Framed in sparkling crystals, this portrait-style ring is a spiritual showstopper. It adds power and elegance to Lisa’s rocker-chic fits.

9. Retablo Charm Bracelet

A full story on the wrist. This bracelet features multiple spiritual images and a bold center cross, making it Lisa’s favorite conversation starter.

10. Double Cross Drop Earrings (Medieval Gold)

Intricately detailed with an antique finish, these double-layer cross earrings embody everything Lisa loves: faith, craftsmanship, and a little edge.

 

SHOP LISA'S PICKS HERE