Perfectly Strong Women: Cristina V. Sheldon

What is your definition of a Perfectly Strong Woman?
A Perfectly Strong Woman, in my mind, is a woman that creates her own destiny and pursues her passion, whatever that may be.

Tell us more about your business.
Cristina V. Jewelry is a Made in New York line of jewelry. We specialize in semi-precious stones and unique jewelry that makes you feel good! We pride ourselves on our quality and our old-fashioned customer service.

What is one piece of advice that you would give a young woman aspiring to fulfill her dream?
Don’t give up. There have been several times where I could have easily thrown in the towel or said it wasn’t worth it, but I stuck with it and my business is now running itself. I often tell others, “Experience is what you get when you don’t get what you want!”

Name the one woman who has been most influential in pursuing your dream/craft.
My mother. My mom was a dancer and loved her career but chose to cut back when having children because she wanted to be a stay at home mom. My story is a bit different in that I built my business early so that I could continue to run it while becoming a mother. Now, I feel as though I get to have it all!

As a busy woman, what is a time-saving technique or life hack that you would share?
As soon as I receive any kind of bill or paperwork in the mail, I open it up and write the due date on the outside of the envelope. Then, I place them in chronological order so that I can easily see what is due and when.

What is your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasure is taking naps! I am known for seizing the day in the morning and working until late at night so every now and then I give in and take a nap on the days I am home!

What’s your top “go-to” tip for accessorizing?
Buy clothes that will allow for accessorizing and you will get more use out of them! For example, I love clean crew necks and V necks with fitted arms so that I have the option of piling up necklaces, bangles or tying a scarf to accessorize.