Becoming Part of Their Story

After spending 30 years in marketing, I thought I understood what it meant to tell a story — how to bring a brand or product to life through words and imagery.

But as I’ve grown Marie & Oakley, I’ve learned something more powerful: it’s not just about my story. It’s about theirs.

There’s the mother who encouraged her daughter to pick out her favorite seashell necklace. That moment gave me goosebumps — it instantly transported me back to being ten years old, standing beside my mother and grandmother as they bought me my very first pair of Frye boots. It was a big investment for a little girl, but it wasn’t about the price. It was about the tenderness of that memory — the feeling of being seen, loved, and reminded that it’s okay to treat yourself to something special.

Then there was the couple celebrating their twenty-something wedding anniversary. The wife couldn’t decide between two bracelets before choosing a Mystic Blue Topaz that shimmered perfectly beside her gold stack. She exuded effortless cool — layered in heirloom gold necklaces that told a story all their own. I couldn’t help but think, I hope I carry myself like her someday.

And the beach vacationer — her eyes lit up when she found the perfect seascape watercolor to take a piece of Wrightsville Beach home with her.

I still think about the woman who purchased one of my Through Her Eyes original portraits for her friend, a collector. Her excitement grew when she realized it wasn’t a print — it was an original.

Or the young girl who instantly knew she needed my Fishy Fish print, giggling over the name before proudly clutching it to her chest.

Even the shopper who took her time choosing from my five business card designs reminded me how small details — like a favorite color or font — can bring unexpected joy.

Then there’s the bride-to-be who returned later that same day. First, she found a necklace for her wedding. Then, she came back to choose one for her mother — at her mother’s gentle urging.

And the mom who picked out a Denim Opal bracelet as a keepsake for her gender reveal — a symbol of a moment she’ll remember forever.

These are the market moments that make my heart sing.

Because it’s never just about someone buying a piece of jewelry or art — it’s about why they choose it. The emotion, the memory, the meaning behind it.

When you listen closely, you realize you’re not just creating a brand — you’re becoming part of someone else’s story. 

And I’d love to be part of yours, too. You can find me at the Wrightsville Beach Farmers’ Market and other events throughout Wilmington — or browse my coastal-inspired jewelry and art anytime at marieandoakley.com.