Say Hello to Alex and Ani Houston

Symbols are the universal strings that weave us to society, yet identify with us in a unique way we call our own. With a myriad of meanings and memories that vary from person to person, the emblems we choose to represent ourselves offer harmony and independence—a dyad of peace and strength. From the first alphabet to civil rights movements, symbols have a rich and progressive history that connects us to the past and propels us into the future. With so much emotion wrapped up in a simple design, it’s silly to not surround ourselves with the visuals that remind us of comfort, love, compassion, bravery, support and whatever peace of mind we need. ALEX AND ANI, one of my all-time favorite charitable brands, does just that with its meaningful and eco-conscious jewelry—thankfully, its just opened its first store in Houston, Texas.

Located in Memorial City Mall, Alex and Ani is spreading its positive energy to H-town. When I received my set of Path of Symbols bracelets for this post, I was beyond excited to check out the store and don these bangles around the city. As ALEX AND ANI put it… I was ready to “enlighten my mind,” “empower the spirit,” and look damn good while trying to stay as balanced as possible. (Any of you who know me personally know that balance (figuratively and literally) is NOT my strong suit.) My bracelets feature the Soothing Blue Serenity Beaded Bangle, Endless Knot Charm Bangle, a symbol of wisdom and compassion, and the Seven Swords Charm Bangle, representative of the seven Archangels and their radiant love. I know it’s silly to think that staring down at a bracelet might give you the ability to love and appreciate yourself; when you select a charm from ALEX AND ANI meant to symbolize what you want to remember, the odds are in your favor friends.

Aside from the significance of ALEX AND ANI jeweler, I’m sure my favorite part about this new store won’t come as a secret. ALEX AND ANI’S Charity by Design collection is the best thing, well, ever. I may sound like I’m speaking in hyperboles, but the brand’s commitment to social good is not only stylish but inspiring. Charity by Design is a collection that empowers non-profit organizations to reach their goals by capturing the power of positive energy through innovative, creative designs. A portion of proceeds are donated to each organization, enabling them to make the world a better place through their cause. The designs are unique and pack an even more special meaning into its metal frame.

A few of my favorite charitable bracelets you’ll find at ALEX AND ANI include the Sweet Treats Charm Bracelet, donating to Give Kids the World, the Peace of Mind Bracelet to benefit the PeaceLove Foundation with art programs for mental illnesses and the Living Water Charm Bracelet for clean water through Living Water International. Of all the beautiful charms in at ALEX AND ANI (and in the world), I adore the Arrows of Friendship bracelet. Twenty percent of the Arrows of Friendship bracelet will be donated to Best Buddies International, the world’s largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical, and economic isolation of the 200 million people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. (Fun fact: I was the Vice President of my high school’s Best Buddies chapter and participated for four years! I still stay in touch with my beautiful buddy, Adrianna, who has gone on to do INCREDIBLE things. My sweet nephew Jaeden was born with Down Syndrome a year after I started my involvement with Best Buddies and he brings me so much joy. I only hope that he finds a friend to change his life like Adrianna changed mine.)

: Sweet Treats Bangle

: Peace of Mind Bangle

: Living Water Bangle

: Arrows of Friendship Bangle

It’s about time Houstonians get to infuse some positivity, charity and love into their daily life. (Goodness knows we could use some clarity while sitting in hours of traffic on 610.) So before you visit the new ALEX AND ANI location, I have a question: what symbol best represents you?