Celebrating 10 Years of Special Moments with Marlow Design

As we celebrate Marlow Design's 10th anniversary, I'm filled with pride, gratitude, and inspiration. Our journey, marked by countless memories, challenges, and triumphs, has always kept your special moments at its heart. From our humble beginnings in Calgary to becoming a trusted name in custom jewellery, we've come a long way, and I'm excited to share our story with you.

The Birth of Marlow Design

After a successful career in retail jewellery, I yearned for a space where creativity knew no bounds and every piece was as unique as its wearer. That desire led me to found Marlow Design in 2014. Initially known as Marlow's Diamond & Design, our mission has always been to craft fine jewellery that resonates with life’s special moments. Trusting my vision, even when it went against the grain, was a significant leap of faith. But it was this very leap that allowed us to create a business that values craftsmanship and personal connection equally. The impact of this decision is evident in the deep relationships we've formed with our clients over the years.

Our journey of growth has been marked by evolution and a commitment to our core values. We've become a trusted name in custom jewellery, known for creating pieces that stand the test of time. Several pivotal moments have shaped our path. Bringing on Yousaf Ayoubi as our Operations Manager allowed us to streamline operations and dedicate more time to our clients. His operational excellence has been a game-changer, enabling us to focus entirely on bringing your visions to life.

Hiring Kat MacLean as our Lead Designer elevated our designs to new heights. Her artistic brilliance and deep understanding of craftsmanship have not only raised the bar for our creations but also inspired us to push our creative boundaries. Together, Yousaf and Kat have helped us grow more in two years than in the previous eight. Surrounding myself with a talented, passionate team has been one of the best decisions I've made. Their dedication, passion, and emotional intelligence are qualities I deeply value and appreciate.

Cherished Moments 

Looking back, I'm incredibly proud of the trust we've built with our clients. We've helped entire families celebrate their special moments, from engagements and weddings to anniversaries and birthdays. Thriving through COVID-19 and emerging stronger has also been a significant accomplishment. Resilience and adaptability have been key to overcoming challenges. Our clients’ support has allowed us to weather storms and come out shining. The trust they have placed in us by referring us to their friends and family, especially during uncertain times, is a testament to the strong relationships we've built.

One custom piece that stands out is a gold ring we crafted for a client who lost his fiancée just before their wedding. We sealed her ashes inside the ring, allowing him to carry her memory wherever he goes. This deeply emotional project reminded us why we do what we do—to help you wear your special moments close to your heart. Jewellery has the power to heal, comfort, and inspire. We've created pieces that mark significant moments in our clients’ lives, becoming a part of their personal journeys. Each piece shows trust they place in us and the craftsmanship we pour into every creation.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Trust

Starting Marlow Design wasn't without its challenges. Financial backing was tough initially, but with determination and constant reinvestment, we grew steadily. In Calgary's competitive jewellery industry, we chose to stand out by focusing on personal connections and exceptional craftsmanship rather than chasing trends. Staying true to our unique value proposition has resonated with our clients and set us apart in a crowded market. Our focus on creating meaningful pieces has not only differentiated us but also deepened our connections with our clients.

We've learned that communication is key in custom jewellery. Keeping you updated throughout the process ensures that your vision comes to life exactly as you imagined. It's not just about meeting deadlines; it's about making sure you feel valued and involved every step of the way. Exceptional customer service builds trust and loyalty. Our clients return to us time and again, trusting us with their most precious moments. This trust is the foundation of our success.

A Legacy of Connection and Craftsmanship

As we celebrate this milestone, I hope that Marlow Design leaves a legacy of connection and craftsmanship. Jewellery is more than just a product. It's a celebration of your moments and emotions. I aspire for the name Marlow to be synonymous with love, empathy, and a deeply human experience. Building a legacy that transcends products and services is our ultimate goal. We're creating a lasting impact on our clients' lives and the jewellery industry as a whole.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Marlow Design

The future looks bright for Marlow Design. We plan to expand throughout Alberta, with new locations in Edmonton and Red Deer, and strengthen our e-commerce presence across Canada. Long-term, I envision establishing Canada's first official Jewellery School to train the next generation of designers, goldsmiths, and gemologists, ensuring our industry thrives for years to come. Dreaming big and planning for the future is essential for our growth and innovation. Our vision for expansion and education will create new opportunities for our team, our clients, and the industry.

What keeps me inspired after a decade in business? It's the uniqueness of each client's journey and the challenge of bringing their visions to life. Every custom piece is a new adventure, and helping you wear your special moments keeps the spark alive. I can't wait to see what the next decade brings! Finding inspiration in the challenges and triumphs that cross our path is what drives us. Our passion for craftsmanship and personal connection will continue to fuel our success and innovation.

Thank you for being a part of our journey. 

Marlow Marshall Founder, Marlow Design
Calgary, February 2025