It was during the early conception stage of designing the Maraya Collection (at that time yet unnamed), that it took on a life of it's own. I wanted to bring the women that loved Mahnal into the design process, so I shared my ideas, samples, and sketches. But the spark of life was ignited when I asked for name suggestions and one customer proposed: mirrors.

It immediately struck me- that had to be the name. Which translated into Arabic as Maraya. It felt melodious and to put it quite simply: right. ✨

I began my meditations on what that word had waiting to unravel and teach us. What came to me was the incredible power we (often unknowingly) wield by being intentional in what's within that we're reflecting outward. Outward onto others, but also for our own selves to be beholden to. This collection would be a reminder of 3 types of reflection:
 

1. self reflection for personal maintenance
2. reflecting our best inner light outward
3. curating our environment to reflect beauty back inward 

It didn't take long for me to receive confirmation that this was a special collection when one of the first women to purchase from the collection, Esther, showed up with a personal request. She wanted the name of her then unborn daughter's name, Faith, inscribed on the underside of the Maraya Ring. She kept that ring to herself only to share as apart of the name reveal of her daughter. Again, I was breathless! The idea of intentionally developing what is within to create beauty in the world without took on both a literal and symbolic meaning that never left the spirit of this collection.

So, bringing us back to present... What a gift to not only see Jhene Aiko wearing the Mahnal Necklace as an artist that brings concept from within outward for the world to enjoy- but just like Esther, with a new life awaiting. 👼🏽

What meaning does 'Maraya' take on for you? No bots or autoresponders- just me. I'd love to know...

~ Shayba