by Melissa Lovy, Founder & CEO, The Melissa Lovy Brand
Ramona in Melissa Lovy Serena Hoops
Your first job shapes you — for the good, the bad or the ugly — it will forever be a staple in your professional career & personal life.
Luckily, for me that meant for the good: Ramona Singer was my first & last boss. I’m Melissa Lovy, currently an NYC jewelry designer and formerly Ramona’s intern and assistant. Ten years ago, I took an internship with Ramona while studying jewelry design at FIT. I quickly became her assistant, working on The Real Housewives of New York, True Faith & Ramona Jewelry for HSN, her best-selling lines Ramona Pinot Grigio & TruRenewal Skincare and more. Before working for Ramona, I never doubted my passion for the jewelry industry. I did however have definite moments of fear in starting a business – working for Ramona lit a fire under me.
Ramona in Melissa Lovy Augusta Cuff
Ramona’s self-made nature & determination inspired me. I had the privilege of watching & playing a hand in her building a brand and fostering relationships. I went into the experience with a strong sense of ambition, knowing I needed to learn and was willing to put in the hard work. Ultimately, the experience helped me belief in myself & my business. Witnessing Ramona’s ability to command a room, become a a trusted source to her followers and develop a client base left a lasting impression on me. I walked away with invaluable wisdom & expertise. To this day Ramona’s remained a supporter, mentor & friend.
Now, having founded my own women-owned business, the Melissa Lovy brand, it’s incredible having the support of another female-entrepreneur in Ramona. We’re able to meet, share and learn from one another — and there’s nothing more special than seeing Ramona in one of my pieces. It’s a consistent reminder of where I came from and where I’m headed. When I started out I had no idea what was in store for me — ignorance is bliss! I had to remain confident in my vision, even when other people couldn’t envision it. I had to trust the fact that I knew what was missing from the market and that I could carve out the space with my brand. In large part that confidence is what I learned from watching Ramona & the other admirable female entrepreneurs around me.
