Magic in Mexico
September in San Miguel de Allende
Given the honorary title of Puebla Magico with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and historical significance in the revolution of Mexico's Independence, September is a month of celebration for San Miguel de Allende. The city comes alive like no other. It’s a month filled with pride, devotion, and the anticipation of Mexico’s Independence Day "El Grito".
El Grito de Dolores
One of the most significant events in San Miguel de Allende—and across all of Mexico—is El Grito de Dolores. This historic cry for independence, initiated by Miguel Hidalgo in the town of Dolores just a short drive from San Miguel, marks the beginning of Mexico’s fight for freedom from Spanish rule in 1810. Every year, on the night of September 15th, the town square comes alive with the sounds of ringing bells, cheers, and the powerful reenactment of El Grito, echoing the same words Hidalgo famously shouted over two centuries ago:
“¡Viva México!”
San Miguel de Allende’s celebration of El Grito is uniquely special. As the birthplace of many key figures in Mexico’s independence, the city honors this historical moment with pride and passion. The celebration is a whirlwind of fireworks, traditional music, and dancing in the streets, but it’s the gathering of the community—locals and visitors alike—that makes this night truly unforgettable.
Home to Virgins Saints and Angels: A Place of Inspiration and Creation
San Miguel de Allende is not just a city of celebration; it is also the heart and home of Virgins Saints and Angels, where the magic of our jewelry comes to life. Feeling so fortunate to call this beautiful city my home, where I am inspired every day by its beauty and traditions. Our workshop is nestled within the city, is where each piece is meticulously crafted, making a wearable tribute to this extraordinary town.
Proud designer moment!
Shown is a buckle I designed for then President Fox and his wife, for the September celebrations.
Festivals and Events: A Month of Vibrant Traditions
September in San Miguel de Allende is not just about Independence Day; it’s a month brimming with cultural events. Here are some of the key celebrations that make this month so special:
San Miguel Arcángel Festival (September 29th): The city’s patron saint, San Miguel Arcángel, is honored at the end of the month. This event is filled with parades, music, and a beautiful reenactment of the battle between good and evil. A spiritual celebration that reminds everyone of the city’s faith and deep-rooted indigenous traditions.
Proud mommy moment!
My daughter Tallulah (3 years old) and her best friend as little Angels on the main Archangel San Miguel float in the parade. I remember it was very important to have a "gringa" in the float as we are very much a part of the community here.
The Alborada (End of September/Beginning of October): This early-morning festival is a spectacular display of fireworks and music that begins before dawn. Known as a prelude to the celebration of San Miguel Arcángel, the Alborada is a joyous and noisy event where various neighborhoods compete to see who can produce the most impressive fireworks display.
Traditional Parades and Charreadas: Throughout September, there are parades filled with dancers, musicians, and beautifully adorned floats celebrating Mexican heritage.
Come join the festivities, feel the pride, and immerse yourself in the heart of Mexico’s Independence celebrations.
¡Viva México! ¡Viva San Miguel de Allende!
READ MORE +
September in San Miguel de Allende
Given the honorary title of Puebla Magico with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and historical significance in the revolution of Mexico's Independence, September is a month of celebration for San Miguel de Allende. The city comes alive like no other. It’s a month filled with pride, devotion, and the anticipation of Mexico’s Independence Day "El Grito".
El Grito de Dolores
One of the most significant events in San Miguel de Allende—and across all of Mexico—is El Grito de Dolores. This historic cry for independence, initiated by Miguel Hidalgo in the town of Dolores just a short drive from San Miguel, marks the beginning of Mexico’s fight for freedom from Spanish rule in 1810. Every year, on the night of September 15th, the town square comes alive with the sounds of ringing bells, cheers, and the powerful reenactment of El Grito, echoing the same words Hidalgo famously shouted over two centuries ago:
“¡Viva México!”
San Miguel de Allende’s celebration of El Grito is uniquely special. As the birthplace of many key figures in Mexico’s independence, the city honors this historical moment with pride and passion. The celebration is a whirlwind of fireworks, traditional music, and dancing in the streets, but it’s the gathering of the community—locals and visitors alike—that makes this night truly unforgettable.
Home to Virgins Saints and Angels: A Place of Inspiration and Creation
San Miguel de Allende is not just a city of celebration; it is also the heart and home of Virgins Saints and Angels, where the magic of our jewelry comes to life. Feeling so fortunate to call this beautiful city my home, where I am inspired every day by its beauty and traditions. Our workshop is nestled within the city, is where each piece is meticulously crafted, making a wearable tribute to this extraordinary town.
Shown is a buckle I designed for then President Fox and his wife, for the September celebrations.
Festivals and Events: A Month of Vibrant Traditions
September in San Miguel de Allende is not just about Independence Day; it’s a month brimming with cultural events. Here are some of the key celebrations that make this month so special:
San Miguel Arcángel Festival (September 29th): The city’s patron saint, San Miguel Arcángel, is honored at the end of the month. This event is filled with parades, music, and a beautiful reenactment of the battle between good and evil. A spiritual celebration that reminds everyone of the city’s faith and deep-rooted indigenous traditions.
Proud mommy moment!
My daughter Tallulah (3 years old) and her best friend as little Angels on the main Archangel San Miguel float in the parade. I remember it was very important to have a "gringa" in the float as we are very much a part of the community here.
The Alborada (End of September/Beginning of October): This early-morning festival is a spectacular display of fireworks and music that begins before dawn. Known as a prelude to the celebration of San Miguel Arcángel, the Alborada is a joyous and noisy event where various neighborhoods compete to see who can produce the most impressive fireworks display.
Traditional Parades and Charreadas: Throughout September, there are parades filled with dancers, musicians, and beautifully adorned floats celebrating Mexican heritage.
Come join the festivities, feel the pride, and immerse yourself in the heart of Mexico’s Independence celebrations.
¡Viva México! ¡Viva San Miguel de Allende!
Virgins In The House!
Have you ever wondered how influenced VSA is by Finn´s personal taste, home and interests?
Let's join Finn for a tour of Virgins in her house and find out...
Above: She is the Blessed Virgin Mary with Baby Jesus. She is French and was a gift when Tallulah (My Daughter) was born—from a celebrity crafter friend named Marisa Pawelko—who happened to have her baby boy, Joey, on the exact same day and year as Tallulah. Forever friends.
The Vierge Marie are five altar candles I purchased as a commemorative item from Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, marking Tallulah’s first visit to Paris at 5 years old. The artist of the painting in the background depicts Finn, Tallulah (at 2 years old), and her godmother Tata, who made Paris an important place in Tallulah’s life.
Five glittering Virgin candles on my kitchen sill, just watching over things and adding to the view.
This Virgin of Miracles is made of marble and was a gift from my family. During the big earthquake in Mexico City, she fell and was shattered. I took her to a restoration shop, and they put her back together again—a true miracle.
The Virgin of Providence is an inheritance from my Aunt Louise, who was a nun at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. She died more than 10 years ago. This picture hung in her bedroom for over 40 years, and now it hangs in mine.
A Virgin of Guadalupe collage was gifted to me at my baby shower two months before Tallulah was born. The artist has since passed, but I hold this piece close to my heart with the blessings she imparted onto it.
The Virgin of Miracles covered in Swarovski crystals. She was made by me & a Japanese artist in Mexico City.
The 6-foot-tall Virgin of Miracles is gold-leafed, with butterflies fluttering around her eyes. She stands at the end of my swimming pool, keeping us safe.
READ MORE +
Have you ever wondered how influenced VSA is by Finn´s personal taste, home and interests?
Let's join Finn for a tour of Virgins in her house and find out...
Above: She is the Blessed Virgin Mary with Baby Jesus. She is French and was a gift when Tallulah (My Daughter) was born—from a celebrity crafter friend named Marisa Pawelko—who happened to have her baby boy, Joey, on the exact same day and year as Tallulah. Forever friends.
The Vierge Marie are five altar candles I purchased as a commemorative item from Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, marking Tallulah’s first visit to Paris at 5 years old. The artist of the painting in the background depicts Finn, Tallulah (at 2 years old), and her godmother Tata, who made Paris an important place in Tallulah’s life.
Five glittering Virgin candles on my kitchen sill, just watching over things and adding to the view.
This Virgin of Miracles is made of marble and was a gift from my family. During the big earthquake in Mexico City, she fell and was shattered. I took her to a restoration shop, and they put her back together again—a true miracle.
The Virgin of Providence is an inheritance from my Aunt Louise, who was a nun at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. She died more than 10 years ago. This picture hung in her bedroom for over 40 years, and now it hangs in mine.
A Virgin of Guadalupe collage was gifted to me at my baby shower two months before Tallulah was born. The artist has since passed, but I hold this piece close to my heart with the blessings she imparted onto it.
The Virgin of Miracles covered in Swarovski crystals. She was made by me & a Japanese artist in Mexico City.
The 6-foot-tall Virgin of Miracles is gold-leafed, with butterflies fluttering around her eyes. She stands at the end of my swimming pool, keeping us safe.
Living and Creating in San Miguel de Allende: A Lifestyle of Jewelry Design
For the past 25 years, San Miguel de Allende has been more than just my home; it has been my muse, my canvas, and my playground. As a jewelry designer, every moment in this enchanting town has shaped my work, infusing it with the rich history, vibrant culture, and spiritual essence that define San Miguel. Here, where Virgins, Saints, and Angels come to life in art and tradition, I find endless inspiration. My designs are more than jewelry—they represent a lifestyle deeply rooted in the heart of San Miguel de Allende.
Drawing Inspiration from the Spiritual
San Miguel de Allende is a town steeped in spirituality. The presence of Virgins, Saints, and Angels is palpable in every corner. From the grand Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel to the small, intimate chapels scattered throughout the town, religious imagery and iconography are ever-present.
These spiritual elements deeply influence my jewelry designs. The heart, or "corazón," is a recurring motif, symbolizing both love and the Sacred Heart, a central theme in Mexican religious art. I often incorporate intricate designs inspired by the ornate altars and statues of saints that fill the churches. These elements add a layer of meaning and reverence to my pieces, making them not just adornments, but talismans of faith and devotion.
Creating with a Palette of Colors and Symbols
San Miguel de Allende is a symphony of colors. The ochre and sienna of the buildings, the vibrant bougainvillea, and the clear blue skies at dusk all find their way into my work. Each gemstone I choose reflects a facet of this vibrant environment—turquoise for the sky, amethyst for the twilight, and garnet for the fiery sunsets.
The wrought iron work that adorns windows, balconies, and doors is another source of inspiration. Its intricate patterns and robust forms translate beautifully into delicate filigree in my jewelry. These designs capture the strength and elegance of San Miguel’s architectural heritage, creating pieces that are both timeless and contemporary.
The Interconnectivity of Life and Design
My creative process is deeply intertwined with my experiences in San Miguel. Each piece of jewelry begins with a spark of inspiration—a sight, a sound, or a feeling. This initial idea evolves through sketches, experimentation with materials, and the incorporation of traditional techniques. The result is a piece that tells a story, capturing the essence of San Miguel's rich culture and vibrant spirit.
Much like my jewelry, my home is a living, breathing entity that evolves alongside me.
It is continuously shaped and shifted by my creative impulses, reflecting my journey as an artist. The spaces where I live, work, and create are in constant dialogue with my brand, each influencing and inspiring the other. This interconnectivity ensures that my designs are not just products but reflections of a lifestyle deeply rooted in the art and culture of San Miguel.
More Than Jewelry: A Lifestyle
My designs are more than just jewelry; they are an embodiment of a lifestyle that celebrates the beauty, history, and spirit of México. When you wear my jewelry, you are not just adorning yourself with a beautiful accessory—you are embracing a way of life that values creativity, tradition, and the art of living fully.
With love & inspiration,
Finn xo
READ MORE +
For the past 25 years, San Miguel de Allende has been more than just my home; it has been my muse, my canvas, and my playground. As a jewelry designer, every moment in this enchanting town has shaped my work, infusing it with the rich history, vibrant culture, and spiritual essence that define San Miguel. Here, where Virgins, Saints, and Angels come to life in art and tradition, I find endless inspiration. My designs are more than jewelry—they represent a lifestyle deeply rooted in the heart of San Miguel de Allende.
Drawing Inspiration from the Spiritual
San Miguel de Allende is a town steeped in spirituality. The presence of Virgins, Saints, and Angels is palpable in every corner. From the grand Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel to the small, intimate chapels scattered throughout the town, religious imagery and iconography are ever-present.
These spiritual elements deeply influence my jewelry designs. The heart, or "corazón," is a recurring motif, symbolizing both love and the Sacred Heart, a central theme in Mexican religious art. I often incorporate intricate designs inspired by the ornate altars and statues of saints that fill the churches. These elements add a layer of meaning and reverence to my pieces, making them not just adornments, but talismans of faith and devotion.
Creating with a Palette of Colors and Symbols
San Miguel de Allende is a symphony of colors. The ochre and sienna of the buildings, the vibrant bougainvillea, and the clear blue skies at dusk all find their way into my work. Each gemstone I choose reflects a facet of this vibrant environment—turquoise for the sky, amethyst for the twilight, and garnet for the fiery sunsets.
The wrought iron work that adorns windows, balconies, and doors is another source of inspiration. Its intricate patterns and robust forms translate beautifully into delicate filigree in my jewelry. These designs capture the strength and elegance of San Miguel’s architectural heritage, creating pieces that are both timeless and contemporary.
The Interconnectivity of Life and Design
My creative process is deeply intertwined with my experiences in San Miguel. Each piece of jewelry begins with a spark of inspiration—a sight, a sound, or a feeling. This initial idea evolves through sketches, experimentation with materials, and the incorporation of traditional techniques. The result is a piece that tells a story, capturing the essence of San Miguel's rich culture and vibrant spirit.
Much like my jewelry, my home is a living, breathing entity that evolves alongside me.
It is continuously shaped and shifted by my creative impulses, reflecting my journey as an artist. The spaces where I live, work, and create are in constant dialogue with my brand, each influencing and inspiring the other. This interconnectivity ensures that my designs are not just products but reflections of a lifestyle deeply rooted in the art and culture of San Miguel.
More Than Jewelry: A Lifestyle
My designs are more than just jewelry; they are an embodiment of a lifestyle that celebrates the beauty, history, and spirit of México. When you wear my jewelry, you are not just adorning yourself with a beautiful accessory—you are embracing a way of life that values creativity, tradition, and the art of living fully.
With love & inspiration,
Finn xo