ME&EM is a promise to do good. The hypoallergenic, stainless steel pieces with natural and ethically sourced gemstones were inspired by Ella’s cancer journey. What began as a tiny bead bracelet, grew to a necklace, and then a strand taller than Ella herself… Because “three years of leukaemia treatment is a lot of beads!”
Most likely you will get tears when you read this interview. Maria and Emily tell us the full story behind ME&EM the give-back jewelry. And we are a bit proud to have found out about this brand because we are sure it will be very inspiring for many people who have suffered or have a loved one suffering cancer. Welcome on board and please, enjoy the good news!
We believe there is a beautiful and yet heartbreaking story behind ME and EM. Would you mind sharing the story and mission of the brand with us?
Our company is inspired by our young daughters, Ella and Molly, who stood side by side through Ella’s battle with cancer. Their friendship has seen more than most do in a lifetime. Empowered by their story, ME&EM For Good was born to help raise money for pediatric cancer. We are on a mission to give back and celebrate the good in every story. Even though the story behind starting our brand is sad we want our company and jewellery to be positive, happy, and always do good.
We are all very interested to know how Ella is doing now?
Ella is doing great, she just celebrated 5 years cancer free and is enjoying the 5th grade.
What are the materials of the jewellery and why is it good?
Each charm is made of stainless steel and dipped in 18 carat gold or rhodium. Our beads are natural gemstones chosen for their colour and luster. Since our jewelry is meant to be worn by people of all ages it was especially important to use hypoallergenic materials tested for quality. All jewelry is made with care so you can wear it every day and forever.
And what about the gemstones, are these ethically sourced and where do they come from?
We are careful to never use stones that are not ethically sourced or environmentally friendly. For instance, we don’t use Lapiz Lazuli that has been linked to child labour exploitation in some countries.
What kind of jewellery pieces will folks find in your online store?
We don’t have a brick & mortar store but you can find bracelets, necklaces, and earrings on our online store!
Who designs and produces the jewellery? How does the creative process look like?
We design all our jewelry and spend a lot of time exploring form and color. We want our jewelry to feel good in your hand, on your skin – Jewelry you never want to take off. Inspiration comes from everywhere -nature, travel or just spotting something that sparks an idea. The creative process is always a lot of fun.
Could you explain more about your give-back business model and the organisation that benefits of your brand?
ME&EM is a promise to do good. We keep that promise by donating $1-$10 for every piece of jewelry. We spent a lot of time at Hackensack University Medical Center and they have an incredible charity named Tackle Kids Cancer. Naturally, we partnered with them! 100% of our donations benefit patient care, new clinical trials, & research to find a cure. While Tackle Kids Cancer is focused on saving kid’s lives, they also know all kids want to have fun, be active, and enjoy life even during treatment. Eli Manning of the NY Giants matches all the money we raise. With his support, ME&EM For good can double our impact and raise more money for a great cause.
How is your give-back jewelry brand benefiting children with cancer?
In addition to gifting kids undergoing treatment, we give money for every piece of jewelry we sell. Right now one of our best sellers is our SuperPower bracelet. Each bracelet raises $10 for Tackle Kids Cancer – add Eli Manning’s donation and that’s $20 for each bracelet sold!
This particular style is near and dear to our hearts. Inspiration comes from Ella’s own cancer journey. For every surgery, dose of chemo, blood transfusion, and spinal tap she had to endure she would earn a bead from the hospital. These colorful beads made her feel brave and strong. What began as a tiny bead bracelet, grew to a necklace, and then a strand taller than Ella herself. Three years of leukaemia treatment is a lot of beads.
The colorful gemstone SuperPower bracelet celebrates our ability to do big things. wear it or gift it as a reminder of how powerful you can be. To date, with Eli Manning’s help, we are close to raising $20,000 for Tackle Kids Cancer!
What kind of packaging do you use?
All our jewelry is gift ready in paper packaging (we don’t use plastic!). The colorful packaging reinforces the positive message and with the charity donation, it is the perfect feel-good gift. Our international clients appreciate the packaging which is easy to ship to loved ones abroad.
What has been the greatest success of the brand so far?
One of the happiest and most memorable days in our short history was giving our first donation check to Tackle Kids Cancer. They invited some of their MVPs (most valuable patients) from the hospital to join us. We felt inspired and more determined than ever to do good after spending the day with these brave young cancer fighters!
Is there any advice you’d like to give to other businesses trying to make a difference for good?
It’s a lot of work building a business but having a greater good makes it so worthwhile. Always remember why you do what you do and what makes your business special. And don’t forget to have some fun too.
If you could write a message on a big wall that the entire world could read, what would it say?
There is goodness in the world, be part of it!
Any message for the children and parents fighting this nasty illness?
The best advice is fairly cliche- Ella’s doctor told us to “take it one day at a time.” 800 days of cancer treatment is unimaginable if you don’t focus on each day individually. You have no idea what you and your children are capable of in the face of adversity. Find the best doctors, lean on friends, trust your strength and celebrate every small victory. Make a wish and extraordinary things happen.
Finally, where can we find the give-back jewelry ? Shops, online, worldwide…?
We sell at our online shop www.meandemforgood.com and ship worldwide; we are also carried in gift shops & lifestyle stores.
Is there any other similar brand you know or are curious about? Comment below, and we will make it happen!
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