A WORK IN PROGRESSThe Covid-19 Pandemic

The current Covid-19 pandemic situation is just that!

A work in progress!

One, the likes of which, we’ve never seen before!

While most works in progress follow a typical set of steps to get to an end result, the Covid-19 pandemic is changing daily—sometimes hourly—as we take atypical steps to get the desired results!

Flexibility is key!

In regards to my upcoming Hope Collection release, I’m trying to remain flexible, adapt to changing circumstances, and be considerate of those essential workers who are still out there putting themselves at risk!

THE RELEASE DATE IS BASED ON SEVERAL FACTORS

1. The stay-at-home order for Washington State (where I’m located) and what that entails;

2. Available shipping options and/or disruptions due to the stay-at-home order; and

3. A minimum 14-day self-quarantine so that I can ensure that anything leaving my studio is indeed safe helping to reduce the risk.

HERE’S HOW IT’S PLAYING OUT

As of today, Wednesday, March 25, 2020, a stay-at-home order is in effect for the State of Washington. Only essential businesses will remain open and operating. I run my business out of my home studio so I can continue to work, create jewelry, prepare packages for shipment, create shipping labels online, and potentially have parcels picked up by the shipping carrier so I can follow the stay-at-home order to the letter.

The post office is considered an essential business so they will remain open and continue to operate. However, due to current shipping demands, I’m hesitant to ship because I don’t want to add unnecessary burden to the shipping carriers with luxury items such as jewelry. There may also be delays in receiving your packages due to the increased volume from people shopping online. I’ve also considered the idea of moving forward with the shop update, but holding all packages until the situation settles down a bit more, then shipping at a later date.

I’ve been self quarantined to help reduce the risk and spread of the disease. This gives me peace of mind knowing that when your jewelry leaves my studio it is safe. However, once it heads out into the land of unknowns it’s out of my hands and the package could potentially be at risk.

HOW TO HANDLE INCOMING PACKAGES

Take all precautions in dealing with any packages that come into your home whether it’s from Twilight Luxe or any other resource. Here are a few tips I’ve sourced and have been practicing myself.

1. While the contents of the package may be free of any contaminants, according to various sources it is advised to not bring anything into your home from 24 hours to up to 3 days. If you’ve got a hidden and secure place to leave things outdoors or in a garage or shed, consider waiting before bringing them inside. However, retrieve your packages from your mailbox or porch immediately! Porch pirates are on the rise during this crisis!

2. Reduce any potential contaminants from entering your home. Open packages outside or in the garage. Discard all exterior packaging in your recycle bin. Wearing gloves while doing so is also advised.

3. If you used any implements such as scissors, knives, or box cutters to aid in opening the package be sure to clean those when you’re finished.

4. Sterilize any surfaces such as a mailbox handle, door knob, or table you may have touched while handling the package. Wash your hands when you’re finished.

WHAT ABOUT JEWELRY FROM TWILIGHT LUXE?
Be assured that I have taken care to clean your jewelry before it leaves my studio. Once you receive it, if you still wish to clean it as an extra precaution you can gently wash it using a soft toothbrush and warm soapy water which is sufficient to kill the virus according to the CDC. Do not use any polishing compounds, chemicals, or bleach wipes to do this as it may damage the jewelry, gemstones, or patina on the piece.

WHEN EXACTLY WILL THE HOPE COLLECTION LAUNCH?
As of today I have not yet decided on a release date for the Hope Collection. I hope it’s sooner rather than later! I’ve still got work to do to get the collection ready for the web site. In light of current events, I’m finding it a little hard to focus and get things done! And, while it isn’t necessary for the launch I’m also hoping to finish one or two more pieces for the collection! Creating allows me to lose myself in the groove, helping to take my mind off what’s happening, and get those works-in-progress finished!

STAY IN THE LOOP
Once I’ve settled on a date and time for the release I’ll announce it via email and social media. In the meantime, I’ll keep sharing photos of the collection on Facebook and Instagram. I think we all know by now not to rely entirely on the algorithms of social media. The best way to ensure that you keep seeing those posts is to stay engaged! If you comment, like, and share you’re more likely to see my posts. Otherwise, they eventually start slipping away into the great unknown!

Be sure to also subscribe to the Twilight Luxe email list!

Stay home! Stay vigilant! Wash your hands!
I wish you all the best and hope you’re safe, healthy, and well!

With much love and hope,
Katherine