Images from left: Beth Hutchens; Kecia Caffie; Lewis Malka
Beth Hutchens
Founder,
Foundrae
When I was six years old, I told my parents I was going to move to New York and own a store, even though I had never been to New York and didn’t even know anyone who had been to New York. I drew a storefront on a large poster board and cut out squares in the windows so I could change out the display daily. It was called Elizabeth’s Boutique. The contents of the store have evolved over the years, but the dream always gave me energy. Every day that I wake up, I am so grateful.
Kecia Caffie
President,
Banter by Piercing Pagoda
Up until high school, I wanted to be a neurosurgeon. When I was growing up, my dad subscribed to Psychology Today, and I would read each monthly issue cover to cover. He wasn’t a neurosurgeon, and I’m not sure for certain why he got the magazine every month, but we must have had the same fascination with the human brain and neurological system, which made me think picking around brains for a living would be the right path for me. However, my high school chemistry class quickly made me realize I was not cut out for the neurosurgeon role. Retail is a much better fit for my skills and understanding of consumers’ minds.
Lewis Malka
Owner,
Lewis Malka London
When I was a kid, I wanted to be a fireman when I grew up. I was around six years old when a few firemen came along in a fire engine to school. They were probably there to explain the hazards of fire and how to stay safe, etc. We were allowed to sit in the cabin and press the siren. We also had a chance to try on their helmets and wear their coats. There was an aura about them. Everyone wanted to climb into the cab and have a go. It was such a thrill. From then on, every time I heard a siren — whether I was walking or being driven in my parents’ car — and saw the red of the fire engine, I got very excited. They were like superheroes, on their way to save lives and rescue people.
As I got older, though, I found a new direction. Instead of putting out fires, I now ignite them. The fire, the passion, the thrill — all these are found within my clients. And of course, the allure and the fire that the best diamonds give off make me a hero in every bride-to-be’s eyes.
Article from the Rapaport Magazine - July 2022. To subscribe click here.