What Being a Mom Means to Me

 

There are so many things in life you think you understand — until you actually experience them.
Motherhood is one of those things.
No book, no advice, no amount of imagining could have prepared me for what it really felt like to become a mom.
It’s messy, it’s magical, it’s overwhelming, and it’s the greatest transformation I’ve ever known.
This is my journey — my interpretation of what it truly means to be a mother.

It all starts with the birth.
Delivery was a kind of out-of-body experience.
I remember when it was finally over — feeling so relieved the pain had stopped that I almost forgot there was a baby in the equation. Those moments during delivery when you sound like a wild animal, pushing this baby into the world — they're wild, raw, and powerful.

And then comes the moment you see your child, and you are madly, irrevocably in love.

I wrote in my journal afterward that I felt like I was suddenly part of the tribe — an experience only women who have given birth would understand.
"Women, hear me roar" made perfect sense.
The tribe heard me — and I was one of them.

I remember crying for days, simply because I didn’t know any other way to express the love I felt.
The love was so fierce, so powerful — the kind of love that explains exactly why a momma bear will protect her cubs at any cost.
Nothing comes between me and my child.
It’s overwhelming — but unstoppable.

This is when our superpowers kick in.
We go nights without sleeping.
We survive hourly feedings, endless laundry, trying to keep ourselves fed and rested enough just to do it all again the next day.
I think back to being a 42-year-old new mom, wondering, How did I even do it?
And I get why women often start younger — it takes so much energy!

But I have to say: my superpowers worked even at 42.
Everything got done.
I survived.
And most importantly — Tallulah thrived.

As she grew up, I remember thinking: I can't wait until she's potty trained...
I can't wait until I don't have to carry her everywhere...
And then — just like that — those moments were gone.
And all I wanted was to have her tiny again.

Babies change how moms experience time.
It's not about years — it's about milestones.

Now, Tallulah is 21 years old.
No more baby talk, no more diapers, no more reminders to say thank you.
Do I miss those early years? A little.
Am I happy she’s living her life and making her own decisions?
Yes.
Do I still worry?
Heck yeah.

But I trust that I did my job — that she knows right from wrong.

No matter how grown up she gets, being her mom will always be my #1 priority.
My heart still skips a beat when, at the end of a phone call, she says, "I love you, Mom."

As she gets older, she sees me differently — not just as Mom, but as a woman.  Now she appreciates my interests, my style, my journey.

I love when she comes home and rummages through my closet, saying,
"Mom, this is so cool... can I borrow it?"
Or when she watches me work and tells me she’s proud, amazed at all that I've accomplished.

A mother-child connection is bigger than just love — it’s in our style, our work ethic, our mannerisms.  It's how we reflect each other in small, beautiful ways.

There’s no simple way to explain motherhood.
The love, the pride, the astonishment over this little person who started in my belly...

It’s truly a miracle.

To every woman who has joined this sacred, beautiful tribe of motherhood — whether by birth, by adoption, by heart, or by spirit — I see you. I celebrate you.

   

We are connected by something ancient and powerful, a love so deep it defies words.
It’s a bond that ties us together across generations, across time, across all the messy, magical, miraculous moments.  We are the tribe.

Shop our Mother's Day Collection based on some of our favorite Mother Daughter Duos

Mom Genes: The Original Style Inheritance 💋

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the women who passed down more than just good advice and killer recipes—they passed down style.

There’s something timeless about the bond between mothers and daughters, especially when it comes to fashion. It’s in the way we borrow (or steal) each other’s jewelry, the way we watch our moms get ready, and the moment we realize… we’re turning into her (and loving it).

Let’s be real—style is hereditary.

And honestly? We grew up watching that play out in the most iconic way: through the unforgettable mother-daughter duos that lit up our screens and shaped our sense of style (and a little bit of sass):

Mom Genes & Jewelry Dreams 💫
A personal note for Mother’s Day

As a designer and the founder of Virgins Saints & Angels, I’m always inspired by strong women—by the way they move through the world, by the stories they carry, and of course, by the way they express themselves through style.

With Mother’s Day approaching, I’ve been thinking a lot about those women who shaped our lives in quiet and not-so-quiet ways. The mothers who passed down heirlooms, wisdom, and maybe even a favorite necklace or two. And the daughters who took those things and made them their own.

Growing up, so many of us were unknowingly influenced by the iconic mother-daughter duos we saw on screen—women who, even in cartoons or period dramas, somehow mirrored our own stories. These were the women we watched on Saturday mornings and late-night movie reruns, who taught us that fashion

🖤 Morticia & Wednesday Addams – We didn’t know it at the time, but these two were giving us gothic glamour vibes. From their sharp silhouettes to their sharper wit, they taught us how powerful it is to own your look—even if it’s head-to-toe black.

🦴 Wilma & Pebbles Flintstone – Saturday mornings were for cereal, cartoons, and loving Wilma’s white rock necklace. Pebbles had the cutest ponytail in Bedrock, and we definitely tried to recreate that look once or twice.

🧼 Mommy Dearest & Christina – Okay, maybe a little intense, but tell me you didn’t learn something about dramatic entrances, red lips, and the fashion power move that is a silk robe.

👑 Downton Abbey’s Ladies – We grew up (and glowed up) with these women. They showed us that elegance is eternal, that jewelry tells a story, and that you can serve a look and a cutting one-liner over tea.

These duos weren’t just characters—they were part of our girlhood. We admired their wardrobes, their bonds (flawed and fabulous), and the way they taught us that style can be soft, bold, wild, or refined—but it’s always deeply personal.

So this Mother’s Day, we’re raising a glass—and maybe slipping on a fabulous pair of earrings—to all the moms who helped shape our taste, our closets, and our confidence.

Whether you’re gifting something shiny, sharing a matching moment, or just reflecting on the pieces you now treasure because they once belonged to her—here’s to the original fashion icons in our lives.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the stylish moms, daughters, and unforgettable duos we grew up loving.

With love,
Finn

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