Saturday, November 28, 2009
Exhibit Z (BC403442)
Britannica Online defines art as "the use of skill and imagination in the creation of aesthetic objects, environments, or experiences that can be shared with others.” It is safe to say, therefore, that the creations of Catherine Michiels qualify as art, which engages the mind, body and spirit in a thoughtful and persuasive manner. It is noteworthy that her sculpted jewelry has attracted a following drawn to the aesthetics and philosophy they represent. A Reiki master, Catherine imbues her creations with a spiritual connotation that transcends jewelry and art.
Catherine learned jewelry making at the Arts & Métiers Institute in Brussels. She studied gemology and diamond grading at the prestigious High Council for Diamonds in Antwerp. However, her start in creating jewelry came much earlier. “In the summer of 1973, I spent time with my Grandmother buying costume jewelry from the traveling salesmen for her boutique on the boardwalk in the North Coast of Belgium. “I had just started to make enamel pendants when a client saw them and placed an order for 100 pieces. My jewelry career had begun.”
After working in the magazine business for Marie Claire and Elle, and publishing her own bi-monthly Moderne, Catherine returned to the world of jewelry and launched a line that has earned acclaim and helped spread her vision of spiritual and social responsibility around the world. And then, there is the matter of India.
It would be impossible to speak of Catherine Michiels without mention of India. “I was there right after the Tsunami. I don’t think anyone can go to India without feeling a change within them, but I felt at home there. The culture, the artistry, the people and the way they confront hardship is inspiring.” She collaborates with a Fair Trade workshop in Jaipur where street children learn the craft of jewelry making as a way of escaping poverty.
The pieces in the ‘Recognition’ collection and her one-of-a-kind creations all serve as a symbol of aesthetic and spiritual awareness for a clientele that includes the elite of Hollywood.
Objectives
1. Fulfill the demand from an existing clientele for an expanded range of Catherine Michiels luxury products.
2. Offer an existing and affluent clientele an experiential product including personal contact with Catherine.
3. Develop a mentoring relationship with a broad public that has already been established with private clients, which would include services and advice relating to personal luxury, interior design and travel in a manner analogous to the relationship Oprah Winfrey has established with her constituency.
Mission
To provide lifestyle accoutrements which are aesthetic and address the mind, body and spirit creating a personal rapport between the designer and the consumer in a top-to-bottom economic base.
Keys to Success
A successful expansion into the luxury product domain relies on the following:
• A well-defined and engaging personality as the icon for the brand
• Products that resonate the consumer to the degree they are willing to pay for the experience the product offers which exceeds the intrinsic value of the product itself.
• Developing loyal and repeat business with a clientele (retail and wholesale) invested in the aesthetics and message of the product.
• Providing a continuation of product within a line to acknowledge and encourage the collector nature of the clientele.
• Providing the means for a continuing relationship between the brand and the client that is enhancing and provides a sense of participation with the designer.
.Products and Services
Jewelry, handbags, selected clothing, furnishings, objets précieux, private consulting (and, ultimately, a “lifestyle destination” chambres d'hôtes) would constitute the initial brand offerings.
Additional Products & Services
A demand for the personal attention of Catherine Michiels amongst an affluent grouping of her clientele has manifested and takes the form of requests for personal assistance in choosing luxury products, advice on where to travel and where to stay. This interest comes as a result of Catherine’s expertise in the luxury domain and the personal connection her clients feel as a result of acquiring her unique designs.
Catherine has declined external offers in the past—to design the interior of a luxury hotel, for example. These design engagement offers, which would serve to extend the Catherine Michiels brand into new areas that have a luxury connotation, would now be welcome and pursued.
History
Catherine’s ‘Stardust’ bracelets, with their signature leather ties, have sparked an interesting phenomenon. Women start with one and go on to acquire and an entire collection, all worn together on the wrist, that they never remove. This attachment to the bracelets is so strong that three generations of women in a family will wear them evidencing the fact that they appeal to all ages. It is also worth noting that husbands and boyfriends have also become the effect of the phenomenon wearing the bracelets in combination next to their wristwatches.
The sculptured designs of the Recognition collection are worn by men and women on a washed silk ribbon either as a necklace or bracelet and serves as a symbol of recognition among those who share the vision and intention of Catherine Michiels. “I wanted to create something special that would remind the wearer that peace begins within. Finding peace for oneself is an important step towards creating it for the world. My designs are inspired by love, truth, serendipity and freedom.”
After beginning in 2004 with a few personal clients, Catherine Michiels now exports to 14 countries which include Australia, Austria, France, French Indies (St Barts), Germany, Holland, Italy, Spain (Ibiza), Japan, Korea, Mexico, South Africa, Switzerland and Venezuela. Every week, new requests from retailers around the world wanting to sell the line are carefully screened to control distribution as production is increased without sacrifice to quality.
Fans of Catherine’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Jessica Biel, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Scarlett Johansson, Nicole Kidman, Gwyneth Paltrow, Vanessa Paradis, Julia Roberts, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts.
Isetan has joined L’Eclaireur, Saks Fifth Avenue online, Steven Alan and Ylang 23 among the world-wide sales locations for the Catherine Michiels collection. It is notable that Dior Beauty and Perfume in New York has been commissioning orders from Catherine Michiels for gifting to press and their brand ambassadors including their Oscar Awards gifting.
Proposal
This presentation should be viewed with the following gross sales figures for Catherine Michiels in mind:
- Sales 2004 : $50.4K
- Sales 2005 : $170K
- Sales 2006 : $400K
- Sales 2007 : $600K
- Sales 2008 : $680K (actual and projection)
- Sales 2009 : $1M (projection)
The forward looking figures for ’09 are projections based on the current operation and take into account the venture that we are currently discussing.
In the immediate, there would be a need to set up a dedicated office/workshop in Europe in addition to that in Los Angeles to handle orders, shipping and a portion of the production, adapt production quantities to conform with the ever increasing demand for the product and for Catherine to create and introduce new designs for each of her product lines. A PR/marketing campaign would be developed and implemented concurrently.
Market Analysis Summary
The number of American women on salaries of more than $100,000 a year more than tripled between 1991 and 2001. The growth in the proportion of women in the highest income bracket was nearly 10 times the rate at which women entered the full-time workforce during the decade.
At the same time the proportion of women in the upper income brackets was increasing, the proportion of women in the lowest income brackets were falling. The proportion of women who earned under $20,000 fell by over one-fifth during the same time.
An analysis of wage and salary data by the Employment Policy Foundation found that 861,000 women earned the equivalent of $100,000 or more in 2001 – the most recent year that data was available - compared with just 242,000 women in 1991.
There was a similar increase in the number of women in the next wage bracket, those earning between $80,000 and $99,999. And almost one in three women who entered the labor force during the 1990s earned more than $60,000. The figures mean that roughly one in every 48 working full-time earned over $100,000 in 2001 compares to one in every 143 women in 1991. Economist Regina Powers, who carried out the research, said that the figures are evidence that women are moving upward in large numbers, earning more than their mother’s generation did.
According to Pam Danziger of Unity Marketing, “Young affluents (the Generation X and Millennial generations) will play an increasingly important role in the target market for global luxury marketers over the next ten to twenty years. This is true not just in the United States (with a median age of 36.5 years) or in the European countries (where the median age ranges around 40 years old), but in the developing luxury markets, like Brazil (median age 28.2 years), India (24.9 years) and China (32.7 years), where the population as a whole is more youthful.”
Danziger’s studies find that from now until 2010, the number of affluent households and their influence will continue to grow. The rising tide of affluence is driven by the 78 million baby boomers that range in age from 40 to 58 years. This is the age of empty nesting, when consumers are earning the most money in their lives, but no longer have to stretch their paychecks across the demands of a growing family.
The target market for La Vie de Chateau is predominately working and/or affluent women whose disposable income is spent on lifestyle luxury items within their economic reach. At the high end of the range, we have women spending as much as $90,000 for a Kelly handbag by Hermès. At the lower end of the range, young women will spend $245 for a Louis Vuitton iPod case or $150 for a key holder.
According to Bill Curtis, chief executive of CurtCo Media publisher of the luxury lifestyle magazine the Robb Report, “The luxury market is not a matter of what something costs. It’s a matter of the entire visceral and emotional experience attached to it. It is about being inspired by products and services, whether that means hotels, boats, cars or jewelry.”
Here are some examples of brands that have followed an approach similar to that envisioned for La Vie de Chateau but without the provenance offered by Catherine Michiels:
Coach (NYSE: COH) has experienced rapid growth, from $500 million in revenues in 1997 to $2.1 billion in 2006 with no distribution in Europe though they are now pushing into Asian markets.
Ralph Lauren (RL) wholesale sales were up 19% in 2007 to $2.32B. This growth resulted from increased sales in Europe, the company's fastest growing region. Ralph Lauren will look to Japan for future wholesale growth. Retail sales were up 12% in 2007 to $1.74B. Ralph Lauren licensing royalties for 2007 dropped 4% to $236M as a result of bringing some product line in house.
When asked how the watch business was doing, Patrick Heiniger, managing director and CEO of Rolex, answered famously, “Rolex is not in the watch business. We are in the luxury business.” Similarly, Catherine Michiels is not in the jewelry business. She is in the business of creating personal, spiritual amulets that transcend jewelry and luxury and serve as icons for those who wear them.
Competition
There are a great many luxury brands on the market today, mostly divided into two groups of ownership between the French LVMH and the Swiss Richemont Group. Often, the same designer will create products for many of the brands within a group, which can serve to blur the distinction of the individual brands. Few of the brands’ clientele have a feeling of rapport with the designer.
The entire Catherine Michiels collection is designed exclusively by Catherine Michiels and is the result of her experiences and observations about life. As a consequence, her designs offer exclusivity and craftsmanship that are the very definition of luxury and which the competition finds difficult to produce. This is why senior executives at competing luxury brands often choose pieces from Catherine’s collection to give as gifts rather than the products offered by their firms. Catherine receives personal emails from consumers around the world who feel a bond with her via the purchase of a design though they have never met.
“We are offered many jewelry lines every day but we went out of our way to find Catherine’s line after experiencing an immediate bond with her designs.”
Minako Ito, Isetan Group Ltd., Japan
“I’ve been in this business for twenty years and meet designers every day. I have to say there is something special and different about Catherine’s jewelry that makes our customers come back for more and collect her pieces.”
Lily Dufailly, Group L’Eclaireur, Paris
The near future
The initial addition of high-line showcase stores (like the existing situations with L’Eclaireur in Paris and Tokyo, Louis Boston in Maine and Ylang23 in Dallas) is required to extend the presentation of the Catherine Michiels’ collection in a context of luxury .
A “Vitrine/Bureau” would be established in Paris as the “atelier headquarters” for the brand where clients and visitors may be received by Catherine in the manner that Ferrari owners made the pilgrimage to Maranello to visit the factory in the hopes of a meeting with Enzo Ferrari, himself.
www.catherinemichiels.com
Exhibit X (BC403442)
La Vie de Chateau is a luxury lifestyle brand expansion of Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry, a California S corporation, and a well-established jewelry brand featuring the designs of Catherine Michiels. Retail clients include Ylang23, L’Eclaireur (in Paris and Tokyo) and Saks online with points of sale in twelve countries. Private clients and fans of Catherine’s creations include Halle Berry, Sandra Bullock, Sheryl Crow, Ellen DeGeneres, Johnny Depp, Helen Hunt, Scarlett Johansson, Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidman, Julia Roberts, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman, Naomi Watt and Kate Winslet.
The current Catherine Michiels brand includes bracelets, necklaces and rings selling from one hundred dollars up to forty-eight thousand dollars with an established clientele ranging from teenagers to women in their sixties and seventies. In 2005, sales volume of Catherine Michiels brand doubled that of 2004. In the first six months of 2006, the 2005 figures were more than doubled again achieving a 250% by end of year.
With La Vie de Chateau, Catherine will be expanding a profitable business that serves as a platform for growth to meet the demand from her clientele for a fuller product line of luxury goods and services including handbags, clothing, furnishing, objets précieux and a “lifestyle destination” in addition to her current line of jewelry.
Catherine learned jewelry making at the Arts & Métiers Institute in Brussels. She studied gemology and diamond grading at the prestigious High Council for Diamonds in Antwerp. After working in the magazine business for Marie Claire and Elle, and publishing her own bi-monthly Moderne, Catherine returned to the world of jewelry with a practical understanding of the luxury market and launched a line that has earned acclaim and helped spread her vision of spiritual and social responsibility around the world.
La Vie de Chateau will offer an affluent and discerning clientele access to the romantic “Chateau Life” as it is lived in the south of France; a romanticized lifestyle analogous to the idealized Americana Ralph Lauren has created with his Polo brand. The center of the operation will be an actual chateau (with modern conveniences) serving as a very exclusive chambre d'hôte (Bed & Breakfast) for clients wishing to have first-hand experience of the lifestyle while consulting with Catherine about their purchases. This is similar to the protocol observed by Ettore Bugatti whereby clients would check into Bugatti’s personal hotel across from the factory when placing an order for one of his extraordinary automobiles so as to have an audience with Le Patron.
The allure of living in the south of France has been documented and perpetuated in literature and film. Peter Mayle has made a career of providing the experience, vicariously, through his many books, some of which have been adapted to the screen (A Year in Provence, A Good Year). The film Under the Tuscan Sun owes its success to this same theme. With La Vie de Chateau, Catherine Michiels offers her clientele the possibility to experience the lifestyle first hand.
Objectives
1. Fulfill the demand from an existing clientele for an expanded range of Catherine Michiels luxury products.
2. Offer an existing and affluent clientele an experiential product including personal contact with Catherine in the context of an idealized séjour in the romanticized setting of a chateau.
3. Develop a mentoring relationship with a broad public that has already been established with private clients, which would include services and advice relating to personal luxury, interior design and travel in a manner analogous to the relationship Oprah Winfrey has established with her constituency.
Mission
To provide lifestyle accoutrements which are aesthetic and address the mind, body and spirit creating a personal rapport between the designer and the consumer in a top-to-bottom economic base.
Keys to Success
A successful incursion into the luxury product domain relies on the following:
• A well-defined and engaging personality as the icon for the brand
• Products that resonate the consumer to the degree they are willing to pay for the experience the product offers which exceeds the intrinsic value of the product itself.
• Developing loyal and repeat business with a clientele invested in the aesthetics and message of the product.
• Providing a continuation of product within a line to acknowledge and encourage the collector nature of the clientele.
• Providing the means for a continuing relationship between the brand and the client that is enhancing and provides a sense of participation with the designer.
.Products and Services
Jewelry, handbags, selected clothing, furnishings, objets précieux, personal consulting and a “lifestyle destination” chambres d'hôtes would constitute the initial brand offerings.
Additional Products & Services
A demand for the personal attention of Catherine Michiels amongst an affluent grouping of her clientele has manifested and takes the form of requests for personal assistance in choosing luxury products, advice on where to travel and where to stay, invitations to Catherine to guide them on personal buying and pleasure trips in Europe and other parts of the world and “social integration” into Catherine’s circle of friends and fellow artists. Services could include the furnishing of a house from top to bottom in a branded Vie de Chateau style. This interest comes as a result of Catherine’s expertise in the luxury domain and the personal connection her clients feel as a result of acquiring her unique designs.
Catherine has declined external offers in the past—to design the interior of a luxury hotel, for example. These design engagement offers, which would serve to extend the Catherine Michiels brand into new areas that have a luxury connotation, would now be welcome and pursued.
Market Analysis Summary
The number of American women on salaries of more than $100,000 a year more than tripled between 1991 and 2001. The growth in the proportion of women in the highest income bracket was nearly 10 times the rate at which women entered the full-time workforce during the decade.
At the same time the proportion of women in the upper income brackets was increasing, the proportion of women in the lowest income brackets were falling. The proportion of women who earned under $20,000 fell by over one-fifth during the same time.
An analysis of wage and salary data by the Employment Policy Foundation found that 861,000 women earned the equivalent of $100,000 or more in 2001 – the most recent year that data was available - compared with just 242,000 women in 1991.
There was a similar increase in the number of women in the next wage bracket, those earning between $80,000 and $99,999. And almost one in three women who entered the labor force during the 1990s earned more than $60,000. The figures mean that roughly one in every 48 working full-time earned over $100,000 in 2001 compares to one in every 143 women in 1991. Economist Regina Powers, who carried out the research, said that the figures are evidence that women are moving upward in large numbers, earning more than their mother’s generation did.
According to Pam Danziger of Unity Marketing, “Young affluents (the Generation X and Millennial generations) will play an increasingly important role in the target market for global luxury marketers over the next ten to twenty years. This is true not just in the United States (with a median age of 36.5 years) or in the European countries (where the median age ranges around 40 years old), but in the developing luxury markets, like Brazil (median age 28.2 years), India (24.9 years) and China (32.7 years), where the population as a whole is more youthful.”
Danziger’s studies find that from now until 2010, the number of affluent households and their influence will continue to grow. The rising tide of affluence is driven by the 78 million baby boomers that range in age from 40 to 58 years. This is the age of empty nesting, when consumers are earning the most money in their lives, but no longer have to stretch their paychecks across the demands of a growing family.
The target market for La Vie de Chateau is predominately working and/or affluent women whose disposable income is spent on lifestyle luxury items within their economic reach. At the high end of the range, we have women spending as much as $90,000 for a Kelly handbag by Hermès. At the lower end of the range, young women will spend $245 for a Louis Vuitton iPod case or $150 for a key holder.
According to Bill Curtis, chief executive of CurtCo Media publisher of the luxury lifestyle magazine the Robb Report, “The luxury market is not a matter of what something costs. It’s a matter of the entire visceral and emotional experience attached to it. It is about being inspired by products and services, whether that means hotels, boats, cars or jewelry.”
Here are some examples of brands that have followed an approach similar to that envisioned for La Vie de Chateau but without the provenance offered by Catherine Michiels:
Coach (NYSE: COH) has experienced rapid growth, from $500 million in revenues in 1997 to $2.1 billion in 2006 with no distribution in Europe though they are now pushing into Asian markets.
Ralph Lauren (RL) wholesale sales were up 19% in 2007 to $2.32B. This growth resulted from increased sales in Europe, the company's fastest growing region. Ralph Lauren will look to Japan for future wholesale growth. Retail sales were up 12% in 2007 to $1.74B. Ralph Lauren licensing royalties for 2007 dropped 4% to $236M as a result of bringing some product line in house.
Market Segmentation for La Vie de Chateau
The “Passé Antérieur Collection” (Past Perfect) addresses women 30 and upwards.
The “Dingue de Toi!” Collection (Crazy for You!) is aimed at women of the Generation X and Millennial generations.
The “Bob” line targets a male market that ranges, to quote Jack Daniels’ philosophy, from bikers to bankers though women are attracted to the “Bob” skull featuring its Mona Lisa smile.
Experience has shown that, in the case of Catherine Michiels designs, the products are often purchased initially by women but are quickly followed up with purchases by husbands, boyfriends, sons and brothers as the products tend to be appealing to both sexes. It is not unusual to see all the members of a family wearing Catherine Michiels jewelry.
Corporate Business
Contracts will be sought for Catherine Michiels design consulting amongst a corporate clientele in a variety of industries.
Competition
There are a great many luxury brands on the market today, mostly divided into two groups of ownership between the French LVMH and the Swiss Richemont Group. Often, the same designer will create products for many of the brands within a group, which can serve to blur the distinction of the individual brands. Few of the brands’ clientele have a feeling of rapport with the designer.
The entire Catherine Michiels collection is designed exclusively by Catherine Michiels and is the result of her experiences and observations about life. As a consequence, her designs offer exclusivity that are the very definition of luxury and which the competition finds difficult to produce. This is why senior executives at competing luxury brands often choose pieces from Catherine’s collection to give as gifts rather than the products offered by their firms. Catherine receives personal emails from consumers around the world who feel a bond with her via the purchase of a design though they have never met.
Strategy and Implementation Summary
To succeed with the expansion of the Catherine Michiels brand via La Vie de Chateau requires that:
The personal nature of the clientele’s rapport with the brand be acknowledged and nurtured. When a film offering a day-in-the-life view of Catherine in Venice and Paris was posted on her website, it was found to have created a closer relationship with an already dedicated public (See: www.catherinemichiels.com/video.html). Films of this sort must continue to play a role in maintaining and expanding a committed clientele.
The initial addition of high-line showcase stores (like the existing situations with L’Eclaireur in Paris and Tokyo, Louis Boston in Maine and Ylang23 in Dallas) is required to extend the presentation of the Catherine Michiels’ La Vie de Chateau collection in a context of luxury .
A “Vitrine/Bureau” would be established at the chateau as the atelier headquarters for the brand where clients and visitors may be received by Catherine in the manner that Ferrari owners made the pilgrimage to Maranello to visit the factory in the hopes of a meeting with Enzo Ferrari, himself.
The establishment of proprietary flagship Catherine Michiels stores in strategic locations such as Paris, Tokyo, Dubai, Beverly Hills, and Las Vegas would follow allowing for vertical integration and total control over the presentation of the product and the purchasing experience to be enjoyed by the clientele. The flagship stores would offer the entire product line; whereas the high-line showcase stores would sell those products that most align with their store profile.
The Internet would be fully exploited as a marketing, sales and delivery system with enhanced interactive components nurturing the special relationship between Catherine and client.
Duty-free outlets would be established for applicable products of the brand.
Licenses would be granted for mass production items (sunglasses, fragrances, etc,) where appropriate.
La Vie de Chateau expansion plans include offering a section of the product line through department stores with products ranging from apparel to home furnishings targeting a large demographic seeking high quality merchandise at lower prices.
Marketing Strategy
The marketing strategy that will be implemented consists of the following:
• Territory preparation prior to expansion launch using film, electronic press kits, multi-media and fashion editorial
• Targeted direct mail to existing private clients and retailers
• Private and open house launch parties at existing high-line showcase stores (Paris/Tokyo/New York)
• Periodic, but regular, release of positioning-statement documentaries personalizing the public’s relationship to the brand via Catherine.
• Strategic advertising
Sales Strategy
La Vie de Chateau sales strategy is based on developing a predictably increasing revenue stream from an expanded public reflective of the brand’s current clientele. Product offerings would expand to cater to the demands of existing high-end clients while offering products that allow a medium and lower income public to buy into the vision of Catherine Michiels. One way Catherine has accomplished this in the past was by offering her designs in bronze and silver in addition to white, yellow and rose gold. Licensing opportunities that would be used strategically to spread the brand’s identity and maximize its financial yield.
Catherine is already well known to many of the women and men who are the high-end customers for La Vie de Chateau. Managers for the flagship stores will be chosen for their understanding of the luxury domain as well as for their ties to the market demographic that will support the flagship by purchases of its product.
Contact:
Stephen Mitchell
818.380.3414
sm@catherinemichiels.com
Stephen Mitchell
818.380.3414
sm@catherinemichiels.com
Exhibit W (BC403442)
Market Analysis Summary
The number of American women on salaries of more than $100,000 a year more than tripled between 1991 and 2001. The growth in the proportion of women in the highest income bracket was nearly 10 times the rate at which women entered the full-time workforce during the decade.
At the same time the proportion of women in the upper income brackets was increasing, the proportion of women in the lowest income brackets were falling. The proportion of women who earned under $20,000 fell by over one-fifth during the same time.
An analysis of wage and salary data by the Employment Policy Foundation found that 861,000 women earned the equivalent of $100,000 or more in 2001 – the most recent year that data was available - compared with just 242,000 women in 1991.
There was a similar increase in the number of women in the next wage bracket, those earning between $80,000 and $99,999. And almost one in three women who entered the labor force during the 1990s earned more than $60,000. The figures mean that roughly one in every 48 working full-time earned over $100,000 in 2001 compares to one in every 143 women in 1991. Economist Regina Powers, who carried out the research, said that the figures are evidence that women are moving upward in large numbers, earning more than their mother’s generation did.
According to Pam Danziger of Unity Marketing, “Young affluents (the Generation X and Millennial generations) will play an increasingly important role in the target market for global luxury marketers over the next ten to twenty years. This is true not just in the United States (with a median age of 36.5 years) or in the European countries (where the median age ranges around 40 years old), but in the developing luxury markets, like Brazil (median age 28.2 years), India (24.9 years) and China (32.7 years), where the population as a whole is more youthful.”
Danziger’s studies find that from now until 2010, the number of affluent households and their influence will continue to grow. The rising tide of affluence is driven by the 78 million baby boomers that range in age from 40 to 58 years. This is the age of empty nesting, when consumers are earning the most money in their lives, but no longer have to stretch their paychecks across the demands of a growing family.
The target market for La Vie de Chateau is predominately working and/or affluent women whose disposable income is spent on lifestyle luxury items within their economic reach. At the high end of the range, we have women spending as much as $90,000 for a Kelly handbag by Hermès. At the lower end of the range, young women will spend $245 for a Louis Vuitton iPod case or $150 for a key holder.
According to Bill Curtis, chief executive of CurtCo Media publisher of the luxury lifestyle magazine the Robb Report, “The luxury market is not a matter of what something costs. It’s a matter of the entire visceral and emotional experience attached to it. It is about being inspired by products and services, whether that means hotels, boats, cars or jewelry.”
Here are some examples of brands that have followed an approach similar to that envisioned for La Vie de Chateau but without the provenance offered by Catherine Michiels:
Coach (NYSE: COH) has experienced rapid growth, from $500 million in revenues in 1997 to $2.1 billion in 2006 with no distribution in Europe though they are now pushing into Asian markets.
Ralph Lauren (RL) wholesale sales were up 19% in 2007 to $2.32B. This growth resulted from increased sales in Europe, the company's fastest growing region. Ralph Lauren will look to Japan for future wholesale growth. Retail sales were up 12% in 2007 to $1.74B. Ralph Lauren licensing royalties for 2007 dropped 4% to $236M as a result of bringing some product line in house.
www.catherinemichiels.com
www.catherinemichiels.com
Exhibit U (BC403442)
Jewelry designer Catherine Michiels introduces La Vie de l’Amour ring as the newest addition to
her collection. Offered in yellow, white or rose Gold, Silver or Bronze, the sculpted ring displays
the four cornerstone concepts of love. “I wanted to create a ring for couples that embodies
the essentials of a deeply felt love in an artistic form,” Catherine says of this design.
her collection. Offered in yellow, white or rose Gold, Silver or Bronze, the sculpted ring displays
the four cornerstone concepts of love. “I wanted to create a ring for couples that embodies
the essentials of a deeply felt love in an artistic form,” Catherine says of this design.
Exhibit T (BC403442)
“Voyage” is a cinematic look into the world of Catherine Michiels and provides
clues as to the inspiration for the designs she creates for her collection. Shot in
Venice and Paris, the film can be seen on Catherine’s website. Bon voyage!
clues as to the inspiration for the designs she creates for her collection. Shot in
Venice and Paris, the film can be seen on Catherine’s website. Bon voyage!
Jewelry designer Catherine Michiels introduces La Vie de l’Amour ring as the newest addition to
her collection. Offered in yellow, white or rose Gold, Silver or Bronze, the sculpted ring displays
the four cornerstone concepts of love. “I wanted to create a ring for couples that embodies
the essentials of a deeply felt love in an artistic form,” Catherine says of her latest
presentation.
her collection. Offered in yellow, white or rose Gold, Silver or Bronze, the sculpted ring displays
the four cornerstone concepts of love. “I wanted to create a ring for couples that embodies
the essentials of a deeply felt love in an artistic form,” Catherine says of her latest
presentation.
Exhibit S (BC403442)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT:
Marie Le Tallec
L’ECLAIREUR
Tel 01 53 01 84 97
Fax 01 42 71 07 0329 Bis Rue des Francs Bourgeois
75004 Paris
marie@leclaireur.com
www.leclaireur.com
www.leclaireur.com
Charles Demeester launches ‘Robo Bro’
Los Angeles, California, 2008
Charles Arnaud Demeester, the son of jewelry designer Catherine Michiels, has designed and launched his first creation known as ‘Robo Bro’—a sterling silver pendant in the form of a robot with attitude.
“I first created Robo Bro in some paintings I made when we were living in New York,” says Charles. “I sold them to people in the street; five dollars for the small ones and ten for the larger ones. I was seven at the time.”
More recently, Charles refined the design providing detail to the ‘Robo Bro’s’ internals as seen from the back of the mini sculpture. The result is the cocky and charming pendant that is a reflection of the designer’s personality. The ‘Robo Bro’ pendant will soon be accompanied by a T-shirt sporting the likeness.
Charles is currently in the seventh grade at a French-American school in Los Angeles and speaks French and English with equal ease. Last year, Charles received the Athlete of the Year trophy at school where he excels at soccer and baseball. He is also active in off-road motorcycling and is an accomplished skateboarder.
Fans of his mother’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts. Charles has set his sites on a slightly different market for ‘Robo Bro’. “I can see kids my age wearing “Robot Bro’, but I think some adults will want him, too. Except they’ll probably want him in gold with diamond eyes.” He adds, “’Robo Bro’ is cool, like ‘Bob’, one of my mom’s designs. Everyone likes ‘Bob’ no matter what age they are. I think ’Robot Bro’ will get the same reaction.”
’Robo Bro’ can be found at:
www.catherinemichiels.com
Los Angeles, California, 2008
Charles Arnaud Demeester, the son of jewelry designer Catherine Michiels, has designed and launched his first creation known as ‘Robo Bro’—a sterling silver pendant in the form of a robot with attitude.
“I first created Robo Bro in some paintings I made when we were living in New York,” says Charles. “I sold them to people in the street; five dollars for the small ones and ten for the larger ones. I was seven at the time.”
More recently, Charles refined the design providing detail to the ‘Robo Bro’s’ internals as seen from the back of the mini sculpture. The result is the cocky and charming pendant that is a reflection of the designer’s personality. The ‘Robo Bro’ pendant will soon be accompanied by a T-shirt sporting the likeness.
Charles is currently in the seventh grade at a French-American school in Los Angeles and speaks French and English with equal ease. Last year, Charles received the Athlete of the Year trophy at school where he excels at soccer and baseball. He is also active in off-road motorcycling and is an accomplished skateboarder.
Fans of his mother’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts. Charles has set his sites on a slightly different market for ‘Robo Bro’. “I can see kids my age wearing “Robot Bro’, but I think some adults will want him, too. Except they’ll probably want him in gold with diamond eyes.” He adds, “’Robo Bro’ is cool, like ‘Bob’, one of my mom’s designs. Everyone likes ‘Bob’ no matter what age they are. I think ’Robot Bro’ will get the same reaction.”
’Robo Bro’ can be found at:
www.catherinemichiels.com
Exhibit R (BC403442)
20 December, 2007
Dan Seidenstein
OVED & OVED LLP
101 Avenue of the Americas
15th Floor
New York, NY 10013
Re: SOLA et al
Dear Mr. Seidenstein:
Pursuant to our conversation regarding an adjusted commission statement for Catherine Michiels and Sola, I would like to provide the following for clarification.
Catherine faxed the corrections to the 4 page commission statement to Sola; whereupon Susan Korey at Sola confirmed that the adjustments Catherine suggested were correct.
The changes affect commissions due from 01/01/2004 to 09/30/2007 and are as follows:Page 1 Client: Cornelia PO : RT-CMI-0001 commissionamount $ 143.70 order was cancelled by client withPatricia Bessa from Sola. TO BE DEDUCTED FROMCOMMISSIONS DUEPage 2 Client: Petticoat Lane: order cancelled. P.Bessanotified. $ 144.45TO BE DEDUCTED FROM COMMISSIONS DUEClient: Saks RTV fro $8,279.80, paperwork provided toS.Korey: commissions due $1,241.97 $ 144.45TO BE DEDUCTED FROM COMMISSIONS DUEThe changes affect commissions due from commissions due from 09/30/2007 are as follows:Client : Cornelia PO : RT-CMI-0002 commission amount $ 75.90 order was cancelled by client with Patricia Bessa from Sola. TO BE DEDUCTED FROM COMMISSIONS DUEClient: SAKS $25,800 This is a double entry:$3,870.00 TO BE DEDUCTED FROM COMMISSIONS DUETOTAL TO DEDUCT : $5,476.02As a consequence of Susan Korey’s affirmation of the foregoing, the total commissions owed to Sola as of 12/19/07 is $30,011.01. Accordingly, I have enclosed an executed Settlement Agreement along with a cashier's check in the amount of $1,600.00 payable to Sola pursuant to the agreement. I have also enclosed a copy of the commission statement.
Best regards,
Stephen Mitchell
Dan Seidenstein
OVED & OVED LLP
101 Avenue of the Americas
15th Floor
New York, NY 10013
Re: SOLA et al
Dear Mr. Seidenstein:
Pursuant to our conversation regarding an adjusted commission statement for Catherine Michiels and Sola, I would like to provide the following for clarification.
Catherine faxed the corrections to the 4 page commission statement to Sola; whereupon Susan Korey at Sola confirmed that the adjustments Catherine suggested were correct.
The changes affect commissions due from 01/01/2004 to 09/30/2007 and are as follows:Page 1 Client: Cornelia PO : RT-CMI-0001 commissionamount $ 143.70 order was cancelled by client withPatricia Bessa from Sola. TO BE DEDUCTED FROMCOMMISSIONS DUEPage 2 Client: Petticoat Lane: order cancelled. P.Bessanotified. $ 144.45TO BE DEDUCTED FROM COMMISSIONS DUEClient: Saks RTV fro $8,279.80, paperwork provided toS.Korey: commissions due $1,241.97 $ 144.45TO BE DEDUCTED FROM COMMISSIONS DUEThe changes affect commissions due from commissions due from 09/30/2007 are as follows:Client : Cornelia PO : RT-CMI-0002 commission amount $ 75.90 order was cancelled by client with Patricia Bessa from Sola. TO BE DEDUCTED FROM COMMISSIONS DUEClient: SAKS $25,800 This is a double entry:$3,870.00 TO BE DEDUCTED FROM COMMISSIONS DUETOTAL TO DEDUCT : $5,476.02As a consequence of Susan Korey’s affirmation of the foregoing, the total commissions owed to Sola as of 12/19/07 is $30,011.01. Accordingly, I have enclosed an executed Settlement Agreement along with a cashier's check in the amount of $1,600.00 payable to Sola pursuant to the agreement. I have also enclosed a copy of the commission statement.
Best regards,
Stephen Mitchell
Exhibit Q (BC403442)
1
SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND MUTUAL RELEASE
Settlement Agreement (the “Agreement”), dated as of December __, 2007, by and
between Max Ely Ltd. d/b/a/ Sola (“Sola”), having an address at 45 East 20th Street, 2nd Floor,
New York, NY 10003, Catherine Michiels (“Michiels”) and Catherine Michiels Fine Custom
Jewelry, Inc. (“CMFCJ”) (CMFCJ and Michiels are collectively referred to herein as the
“Debtors”) both having an address at 1823 Burnell Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90065.
WHEREAS, on or about October 25, 2005, Sola and Michiels entered into a sales
commission agreement (the “Commission Agreement”) whereby Sola was engaged to act as an
independent commission-based sales representative to market and sell Michiels’ jewelry in
consideration for the full and timely payment to Sola of the commissions set forth in the
Commission Agreement; and
WHEREAS, on or about October 23, 2006, Michiels formed the corporate entity
CMFCJ and agreed that CMFCJ would jointly and severally assume Michiels’ obligations to
Sola pursuant to the Commission Agreement; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the terms of the Commission Agreement, Debtors are
obligated to pay commissions to Sola in an amount equal to Thirty Four Thousand One Hundred
Twenty Eight Dollars and Fifty Three Cents ($34,128.53) (the “Commissions”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the terms of the Commission Agreement, Debtors are
obligated to pay Sola’s attorneys’ fees in an amount equal to Four Thousand One Hundred
Seventeen Dollars and Fifty Cents ($4,117.50) (the “Attorneys’ Fees”); and
WHEREAS, despite repeated demand by Sola, Debtors have failed to make
payment of the Commissions and Attorneys’ Fees; and
WHEREAS, Sola commenced an action against the Debtors in the Supreme
Court of New York, County of New York, captioned Max Ely Ltd. d/b/a Sola v. Catherine
Michiels, et al., Index No. 603411/07 (the “Action”) seeking payment of the Commissions and
Attorneys’ Fees; and
WHEREAS, the parties to this Agreement desire to amicably and in good faith
resolve without further resort to legal process all claims that have been asserted or might have
been asserted in the Action; and
WHEREAS, Sola and the Debtors (each separately a “Party” and collectively
“Parties”) desire, by this Agreement to settle fully all differences, disputes and claims that may
exist between them; and
NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the mutual covenants herein
contained and for good and valuable consideration, the sufficiency of which is hereby
acknowledged, the Parties hereby agree as follows:
2
1. Termination of Prior Agreements, Discussions and Understandings.
The Parties acknowledge and agree that this Agreement sets forth the entire agreement
and understanding between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and merges and
supercedes all prior discussions, representations, agreements, contracts, memoranda and
understandings with respect to such subject matter. The Parties acknowledge that any and all
prior agreements between them are hereby cancelled and/or rendered void and the Parties shall
have no further obligations to each other thereunder.
2. Non-Dischargeable Obligation. The Debtors expressly acknowledge the
validity of their obligation to pay Sola the Commissions and Attorneys’ Fees which, in the
aggregate, amount to Thirty Eight Thousand Two Hundred Forty Six Dollars and Three Cents
($38,246.03) (the “Judgment Amount”). The Debtors also expressly acknowledge and agree that
the Judgment Amount represents a non-dischargeable obligation that shall not be discharged or
waived by any form of bankruptcy proceeding.
3. Settlement Payment. The Debtors hereby agree to pay the Judgment
Amount to Sola as follows:
a. Upon execution hereof, Debtors shall pay the sum of One Thousand
Six Hundred Dollars ($1,600) (the “Initial Payment”) to the order of “Max Ely Ltd.” in the form
of a certified, cashier’s or bank check.
b. Commencing on January 1, 2008 and continuing through and
including December 1, 2008, Debtors shall make twelve (12) consecutive and successive
monthly payments each of which shall be (i) in an amount not less than One Thousand Six
Hundred Dollars ($1,600), (ii) payable to the order of “Max Ely Ltd.,” in the form of a certified,
cashier’s or bank check, (iii) delivered to Max Ely Ltd d/b/a Sola, 45 East 20th Street, 2nd Floor,
New York, NY 10003, and (iv) received by Sola on or before the 15th day of each respective
month. In the event any of the foregoing payments are not received by Sola by the fifteenth (15th)
day of each respective month, said payment shall be deemed untimely and shall automatically
constitute an event of default without the need for Sola to deliver any further or additional
notices to Debtors.
c. The balance of the Judgment Amount then outstanding, due and owing
to Sola, after giving effect to all of the payments made by Debtors pursuant to Subparagraph 3(a)
and 3(b) above (the ”Balance”) shall be fully paid by Debtors to Sola on or before December 31,
2008 (the “Final Payment Date”).
4. No Admissions. This Agreement does not constitute an admission by the
Parties. This Agreement may not be introduced in any action or proceeding by anyone for any
purpose except to evidence its terms.
5. Release by Sola. Provided that the Debtors have made timely payment of
all amounts to be paid under this Agreement pursuant to the terms set forth herein, then, in
consideration thereof and as a condition precedent thereto, upon the Debtors’ full satisfaction of
the Judgment Amount, Sola shall irrevocably and unconditionally release, waive and discharge
Debtors, including their respective heirs, executors, administrators, affiliates, successors, assigns,
3
directors, officers, employees, shareholders, representatives and agents, from any and all actions,
causes of action, claims, complaints, demands, damages, rights, remedies and liabilities of
whatsoever kind or character, in law or equity, suspected or unsuspected, past or present, known
or unknown, that Sola has ever had, may now have, or may later assert against Debtors, from the
beginning of time to the effective date of this Agreement, including specifically any and all
claims and causes of action arising from the Commission Agreement.
6. Release by Debtors. In consideration of this Agreement and the good and
valuable consideration provided therein, upon execution hereof, Debtors hereby irrevocably and
unconditionally release, waive and forever discharge Sola, including its respective heirs,
executors, administrators, affiliates, successors, assigns, directors, officers, employees,
shareholders, representatives and agents, from any and all actions, causes of action, claims,
complaints, demands, damages, rights, remedies and liabilities of whatsoever kind or character,
in law or equity, suspected or unsuspected, past or present, known or unknown, that Debtors ever
had, may now have, or may later assert against Sola, from the beginning of time to the effective
date of this Agreement, including specifically any and all claims and causes of action arising
from the Commission Agreement.
7. Confidentiality. The Parties expressly agree that the existence of this
Agreement and all of its terms and conditions and the compromise negotiations which concluded
with this Agreement shall be kept and remain strictly confidential except to the extent that
disclosure is expressly required by law or regulation of any governmental authority or in
connection with disclosure to the Parties’ attorneys, financial and/or tax advisors and immediate
family, provided, however, that the Parties’ attorneys and immediate family shall agree to keep
such information in the strictest confidence. The provisions of this Paragraph are material terms
of this Agreement and shall survive its expiration or termination.
8. Non-Disparagement/Reference. The Parties agree that they will not,
directly or indirectly, disparage or criticize each other or issue any communication, written or
otherwise, or take any other action or engage in any other conduct, nor cause or permit their
attorneys or other representatives to do so on their behalf, that is intended to be or could
reasonably be expected to be inconsistent with or injurious to the interests of the other. The
provisions of this Paragraph are material terms of this Agreement and shall survive its expiration
or termination. Efforts any Party to enforce this Agreement shall not thereby be deemed a
breach of this Paragraph.
9. Remedies for Breach.
a. Contemporaneously with the execution of this Agreement, Debtors
shall each execute and deliver to Oved & Oved LLP (“Oved”), affidavits of confession of
judgment (the “Affidavits of Confession of Judgment”) in the forms annexed hereto as Exhibit A
and Exhibit B, respectively, and made a material part hereof. The executed Affidavits of
Confession of Judgment shall be held in escrow by Oved and shall be used, as set forth herein, to
enforce the provisions of Paragraph 3 of this Agreement.
b. In the event of a default by Debtors of any of the terms and conditions
of Paragraph 3 of the Agreement, Sola shall have the right, without further notice of any kind to
4
Debtors, to cause the Affidavits of Confession of Judgment to be entered against Debtors for the
full Judgment Amount, notwithstanding any prior payments made by Debtors pursuant to this
Agreement.
c. The Parties hereby agree that the Judgment Amount is an appropriate
sum of liquidated damages (the “Liquidated Damages”) in the event that Sola is forced to
enforce a judgment following Debtors’ default under this Agreement, notwithstanding any prior
payments which may have been made by Debtors pursuant to this Agreement. Sola’s costs and
attorneys’ fees incurred in any attempts to enforce this Agreement are not included in the
Liquidated Damages and shall accrue up until the time of the entry of judgment and be added
thereto.
d. Provided that Debtors have made timely payment of all amounts to be
paid under this Agreement pursuant to the terms set forth herein, then, in consideration thereof
and as a condition precedent thereto, within ten (10) business days after the Debtors’ full
satisfaction of the Judgment Amount, Oved shall release from escrow and return the executed
Affidavits of Confession of Judgment to the Debtors at the address provided above, or at such
other address as Debtors may hereafter provide to Sola in writing.
10. Stipulation of Discontinuance. Contemporaneously with the execution
of this Agreement, Oved shall execute and file with the Clerk of the Supreme Court of the State
of New York, County of New York a notice discontinuing the Action, in the form annexed
hereto as Exhibit C and made a material part hereof.
11. Escrow Provision.
a. The Parties hereby appoint Oved as the escrow agent in accordance
with the terms and conditions contained herein and Oved hereby accepts such appointment.
b. Oved shall not be bound in any way by any agreement or contract
between the Parties to which Oved is not a party (whether or not Oved has knowledge thereof)
and has undertaken to perform only such duties as are expressly set forth herein.
c. Oved shall not be held liable in any event if it accepts as accurate and
acts in good faith upon the contents of any notice received by it from the Parties, delivered to it
in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.
d. Oved shall not be liable for any exercise of judgment in the
performance of its duties hereunder but only for its own gross negligence, willful misfeasance or
fraud and the duties of Oved shall be determined solely by the express provisions of this
Agreement.
e. The Parties to this Agreement acknowledge and agree that such duties
of Oved, in its capacity as escrow agent, are purely ministerial in nature, and that accordingly, no
Party shall make any claim, or raise as a defense, the assertion that Oved should, in any manner,
be disqualified, prevented or prohibited from representing Sola in any dispute among the Parties
with respect to this Agreement or otherwise by reason of its service as escrow agent of this
Agreement.
5
f. Oved may act or refrain from acting in respect to any matter referred
to in this Agreement in full reliance upon and with the advice of counsel which may be selected
by it (including any member of its own firm) and shall be fully protected in so acting or
refraining from action upon the advice of such counsel.
g. In the event of any litigation involving Oved in its capacity as escrow
agent hereunder, the Parties shall be jointly and severally liable to Oved for all expenses incurred
in connection therewith, including court costs and reasonable counsel fees, which counsel may
include Oved, except for expenses incurred in respect of litigation arising out of willful
misconduct or gross negligence on the part of Oved.
12. Attorneys’ Fees. If any Party brings any proceeding to enforce or
construe this Agreement or any portion thereof, the prevailing party shall be awarded all of its
costs, expenses, expert witness fees, and attorneys’ fees in connection with such enforcement
action.
13. Miscellaneous Provisions.
a. No oral understanding, statements, promises or inducements contrary
to the terms of this Agreement exist. This Agreement cannot be changed or terminated orally.
b. If any court of competent jurisdiction concludes that any part, term or
provision of this Agreement is illegal, unenforceable or in conflict with any state, federal or any
other applicable law, it is the Parties intention that the Agreement be deemed to be modified so
that its purpose can lawfully be effectuated and, as so modified, the balance of this Agreement
shall be enforceable and remain in full force and effect.
c. This Agreement shall extend to, be binding upon, and inure to the
benefit of the Parties and their respective successors, heirs and assigns.
d. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance
with the laws of the State of New York. Any action or proceeding between the Parties shall be
commenced only in the civil, state or Federal Courts located in the State, City and County of
New York, and all Parties hereby submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the said Courts.
e. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts each
of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original and all of which when taken
together shall constitute one and the same agreement.
f. Each of the Parties hereto has joined in and contributed to drafting this
Agreement and each of the Parties hereby agree that there shall be no presumption favoring any
of the parties based upon draftsmanship.
g. No waiver of any breach of any term or provision of this Agreement
shall be construed to be, nor shall be, a waiver of any other breach of this Agreement. No waiver
shall be binding unless in writing and signed by the party waiving the breach.
6
h. The Parties hereto warrant and represent to each other that they are
legally authorized and entitled to settle and release every claim, right, act, damage, debt, demand,
liability, accounting, reckoning, obligation, cost, right or action, claim for relief, or cause of
action referred to and released herein, and to give a valid full and final acquittance therefor, to
make the payments provided for herein, and to enter into this Agreement. The Parties further
warrant and represent to one another that this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and
delivered by such party and constitutes legal, valid, binding and enforceable obligations of such
party.
14. Notices. Any notices, requests, demands and other communications
provided for by this Agreement shall be sufficient only if in writing and if sent by registered or
certified mail to the following:
a. If to Sola:
Sola Showroom
45 E 20th Street 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10003
Attn: Ms. Lisa Natt-Irom
With a copy sent simultaneously and in like manner to:
Oved & Oved LLP
101 Avenue of the Americas, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10013
Attn: Terrence A. Oved, Esq.
b. Michiels and Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry, Inc.:
1823 Burnell Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90065
Attn: Catherine Michiels
15. Costs, etc. The Parties shall be solely responsible for their respective
attorneys’ fees and other related costs associated with this Agreement.
16. Acknowledgments.
a. The Parties hereto acknowledge and represent that the have read and
fully understand this Agreement, that they are voluntarily entering into this Agreement including
a general release of their claims against the Parties, and that they have consulted with their legal
counsel before doing so.
[Balance of Page Intentionally Left Blank]
[Execution Page Follows]
7
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have hereunto set their hand and
executed this Agreement as of the day and year first set above.
________________________________________ December ___, 2007
Catherine Michiels Date of Execution
Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry, Inc.
________________________________________ December ___, 2007
Catherine Michiels, President Date of Execution
Max Ely Ltd. d/b/a Sola
________________________________________ December ___, 2007
Elisa Natt-Irom, President Date of Execution
8
IN PRESENCE OF:
STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF ss:
On November __, 2007, before me personally came Catherine Michiels, known to me to be the individual
described in, and who executed the foregoing SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND RELEASE and duly
acknowledged to me that she executed the same in her acting corporate capacity as an authorized agent for Catherine
Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry, Inc.
NOTARY PUBLIC
STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF ss:
On November __, 2007, before me personally came Catherine Michiels, known to me to be the individual
described in, and who executed the foregoing SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND RELEASE and duly
acknowledged to me that she executed the same
NOTARY PUBLIC
STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF ss:
On November __ 2007, before me personally came Elisa Natt-Irom, known to me to be the individual
described in, and who executed the foregoing SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND RELEASE and duly
acknowledged to me that she executed the same in her acting corporate capacity as an authorized agent for Max Ely
Ltd. d/b/a Sola.
NOTARY PUBLIC
9
EXHIBIT A
CONFESSION OF JUDGMENT
10
EXHIBIT B
CONFESSION OF JUDGMENT
11
EXHIBIT C
STIPULATION OF DISCONTINUANCE
SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND MUTUAL RELEASE
Settlement Agreement (the “Agreement”), dated as of December __, 2007, by and
between Max Ely Ltd. d/b/a/ Sola (“Sola”), having an address at 45 East 20th Street, 2nd Floor,
New York, NY 10003, Catherine Michiels (“Michiels”) and Catherine Michiels Fine Custom
Jewelry, Inc. (“CMFCJ”) (CMFCJ and Michiels are collectively referred to herein as the
“Debtors”) both having an address at 1823 Burnell Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90065.
WHEREAS, on or about October 25, 2005, Sola and Michiels entered into a sales
commission agreement (the “Commission Agreement”) whereby Sola was engaged to act as an
independent commission-based sales representative to market and sell Michiels’ jewelry in
consideration for the full and timely payment to Sola of the commissions set forth in the
Commission Agreement; and
WHEREAS, on or about October 23, 2006, Michiels formed the corporate entity
CMFCJ and agreed that CMFCJ would jointly and severally assume Michiels’ obligations to
Sola pursuant to the Commission Agreement; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the terms of the Commission Agreement, Debtors are
obligated to pay commissions to Sola in an amount equal to Thirty Four Thousand One Hundred
Twenty Eight Dollars and Fifty Three Cents ($34,128.53) (the “Commissions”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the terms of the Commission Agreement, Debtors are
obligated to pay Sola’s attorneys’ fees in an amount equal to Four Thousand One Hundred
Seventeen Dollars and Fifty Cents ($4,117.50) (the “Attorneys’ Fees”); and
WHEREAS, despite repeated demand by Sola, Debtors have failed to make
payment of the Commissions and Attorneys’ Fees; and
WHEREAS, Sola commenced an action against the Debtors in the Supreme
Court of New York, County of New York, captioned Max Ely Ltd. d/b/a Sola v. Catherine
Michiels, et al., Index No. 603411/07 (the “Action”) seeking payment of the Commissions and
Attorneys’ Fees; and
WHEREAS, the parties to this Agreement desire to amicably and in good faith
resolve without further resort to legal process all claims that have been asserted or might have
been asserted in the Action; and
WHEREAS, Sola and the Debtors (each separately a “Party” and collectively
“Parties”) desire, by this Agreement to settle fully all differences, disputes and claims that may
exist between them; and
NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the mutual covenants herein
contained and for good and valuable consideration, the sufficiency of which is hereby
acknowledged, the Parties hereby agree as follows:
2
1. Termination of Prior Agreements, Discussions and Understandings.
The Parties acknowledge and agree that this Agreement sets forth the entire agreement
and understanding between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and merges and
supercedes all prior discussions, representations, agreements, contracts, memoranda and
understandings with respect to such subject matter. The Parties acknowledge that any and all
prior agreements between them are hereby cancelled and/or rendered void and the Parties shall
have no further obligations to each other thereunder.
2. Non-Dischargeable Obligation. The Debtors expressly acknowledge the
validity of their obligation to pay Sola the Commissions and Attorneys’ Fees which, in the
aggregate, amount to Thirty Eight Thousand Two Hundred Forty Six Dollars and Three Cents
($38,246.03) (the “Judgment Amount”). The Debtors also expressly acknowledge and agree that
the Judgment Amount represents a non-dischargeable obligation that shall not be discharged or
waived by any form of bankruptcy proceeding.
3. Settlement Payment. The Debtors hereby agree to pay the Judgment
Amount to Sola as follows:
a. Upon execution hereof, Debtors shall pay the sum of One Thousand
Six Hundred Dollars ($1,600) (the “Initial Payment”) to the order of “Max Ely Ltd.” in the form
of a certified, cashier’s or bank check.
b. Commencing on January 1, 2008 and continuing through and
including December 1, 2008, Debtors shall make twelve (12) consecutive and successive
monthly payments each of which shall be (i) in an amount not less than One Thousand Six
Hundred Dollars ($1,600), (ii) payable to the order of “Max Ely Ltd.,” in the form of a certified,
cashier’s or bank check, (iii) delivered to Max Ely Ltd d/b/a Sola, 45 East 20th Street, 2nd Floor,
New York, NY 10003, and (iv) received by Sola on or before the 15th day of each respective
month. In the event any of the foregoing payments are not received by Sola by the fifteenth (15th)
day of each respective month, said payment shall be deemed untimely and shall automatically
constitute an event of default without the need for Sola to deliver any further or additional
notices to Debtors.
c. The balance of the Judgment Amount then outstanding, due and owing
to Sola, after giving effect to all of the payments made by Debtors pursuant to Subparagraph 3(a)
and 3(b) above (the ”Balance”) shall be fully paid by Debtors to Sola on or before December 31,
2008 (the “Final Payment Date”).
4. No Admissions. This Agreement does not constitute an admission by the
Parties. This Agreement may not be introduced in any action or proceeding by anyone for any
purpose except to evidence its terms.
5. Release by Sola. Provided that the Debtors have made timely payment of
all amounts to be paid under this Agreement pursuant to the terms set forth herein, then, in
consideration thereof and as a condition precedent thereto, upon the Debtors’ full satisfaction of
the Judgment Amount, Sola shall irrevocably and unconditionally release, waive and discharge
Debtors, including their respective heirs, executors, administrators, affiliates, successors, assigns,
3
directors, officers, employees, shareholders, representatives and agents, from any and all actions,
causes of action, claims, complaints, demands, damages, rights, remedies and liabilities of
whatsoever kind or character, in law or equity, suspected or unsuspected, past or present, known
or unknown, that Sola has ever had, may now have, or may later assert against Debtors, from the
beginning of time to the effective date of this Agreement, including specifically any and all
claims and causes of action arising from the Commission Agreement.
6. Release by Debtors. In consideration of this Agreement and the good and
valuable consideration provided therein, upon execution hereof, Debtors hereby irrevocably and
unconditionally release, waive and forever discharge Sola, including its respective heirs,
executors, administrators, affiliates, successors, assigns, directors, officers, employees,
shareholders, representatives and agents, from any and all actions, causes of action, claims,
complaints, demands, damages, rights, remedies and liabilities of whatsoever kind or character,
in law or equity, suspected or unsuspected, past or present, known or unknown, that Debtors ever
had, may now have, or may later assert against Sola, from the beginning of time to the effective
date of this Agreement, including specifically any and all claims and causes of action arising
from the Commission Agreement.
7. Confidentiality. The Parties expressly agree that the existence of this
Agreement and all of its terms and conditions and the compromise negotiations which concluded
with this Agreement shall be kept and remain strictly confidential except to the extent that
disclosure is expressly required by law or regulation of any governmental authority or in
connection with disclosure to the Parties’ attorneys, financial and/or tax advisors and immediate
family, provided, however, that the Parties’ attorneys and immediate family shall agree to keep
such information in the strictest confidence. The provisions of this Paragraph are material terms
of this Agreement and shall survive its expiration or termination.
8. Non-Disparagement/Reference. The Parties agree that they will not,
directly or indirectly, disparage or criticize each other or issue any communication, written or
otherwise, or take any other action or engage in any other conduct, nor cause or permit their
attorneys or other representatives to do so on their behalf, that is intended to be or could
reasonably be expected to be inconsistent with or injurious to the interests of the other. The
provisions of this Paragraph are material terms of this Agreement and shall survive its expiration
or termination. Efforts any Party to enforce this Agreement shall not thereby be deemed a
breach of this Paragraph.
9. Remedies for Breach.
a. Contemporaneously with the execution of this Agreement, Debtors
shall each execute and deliver to Oved & Oved LLP (“Oved”), affidavits of confession of
judgment (the “Affidavits of Confession of Judgment”) in the forms annexed hereto as Exhibit A
and Exhibit B, respectively, and made a material part hereof. The executed Affidavits of
Confession of Judgment shall be held in escrow by Oved and shall be used, as set forth herein, to
enforce the provisions of Paragraph 3 of this Agreement.
b. In the event of a default by Debtors of any of the terms and conditions
of Paragraph 3 of the Agreement, Sola shall have the right, without further notice of any kind to
4
Debtors, to cause the Affidavits of Confession of Judgment to be entered against Debtors for the
full Judgment Amount, notwithstanding any prior payments made by Debtors pursuant to this
Agreement.
c. The Parties hereby agree that the Judgment Amount is an appropriate
sum of liquidated damages (the “Liquidated Damages”) in the event that Sola is forced to
enforce a judgment following Debtors’ default under this Agreement, notwithstanding any prior
payments which may have been made by Debtors pursuant to this Agreement. Sola’s costs and
attorneys’ fees incurred in any attempts to enforce this Agreement are not included in the
Liquidated Damages and shall accrue up until the time of the entry of judgment and be added
thereto.
d. Provided that Debtors have made timely payment of all amounts to be
paid under this Agreement pursuant to the terms set forth herein, then, in consideration thereof
and as a condition precedent thereto, within ten (10) business days after the Debtors’ full
satisfaction of the Judgment Amount, Oved shall release from escrow and return the executed
Affidavits of Confession of Judgment to the Debtors at the address provided above, or at such
other address as Debtors may hereafter provide to Sola in writing.
10. Stipulation of Discontinuance. Contemporaneously with the execution
of this Agreement, Oved shall execute and file with the Clerk of the Supreme Court of the State
of New York, County of New York a notice discontinuing the Action, in the form annexed
hereto as Exhibit C and made a material part hereof.
11. Escrow Provision.
a. The Parties hereby appoint Oved as the escrow agent in accordance
with the terms and conditions contained herein and Oved hereby accepts such appointment.
b. Oved shall not be bound in any way by any agreement or contract
between the Parties to which Oved is not a party (whether or not Oved has knowledge thereof)
and has undertaken to perform only such duties as are expressly set forth herein.
c. Oved shall not be held liable in any event if it accepts as accurate and
acts in good faith upon the contents of any notice received by it from the Parties, delivered to it
in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.
d. Oved shall not be liable for any exercise of judgment in the
performance of its duties hereunder but only for its own gross negligence, willful misfeasance or
fraud and the duties of Oved shall be determined solely by the express provisions of this
Agreement.
e. The Parties to this Agreement acknowledge and agree that such duties
of Oved, in its capacity as escrow agent, are purely ministerial in nature, and that accordingly, no
Party shall make any claim, or raise as a defense, the assertion that Oved should, in any manner,
be disqualified, prevented or prohibited from representing Sola in any dispute among the Parties
with respect to this Agreement or otherwise by reason of its service as escrow agent of this
Agreement.
5
f. Oved may act or refrain from acting in respect to any matter referred
to in this Agreement in full reliance upon and with the advice of counsel which may be selected
by it (including any member of its own firm) and shall be fully protected in so acting or
refraining from action upon the advice of such counsel.
g. In the event of any litigation involving Oved in its capacity as escrow
agent hereunder, the Parties shall be jointly and severally liable to Oved for all expenses incurred
in connection therewith, including court costs and reasonable counsel fees, which counsel may
include Oved, except for expenses incurred in respect of litigation arising out of willful
misconduct or gross negligence on the part of Oved.
12. Attorneys’ Fees. If any Party brings any proceeding to enforce or
construe this Agreement or any portion thereof, the prevailing party shall be awarded all of its
costs, expenses, expert witness fees, and attorneys’ fees in connection with such enforcement
action.
13. Miscellaneous Provisions.
a. No oral understanding, statements, promises or inducements contrary
to the terms of this Agreement exist. This Agreement cannot be changed or terminated orally.
b. If any court of competent jurisdiction concludes that any part, term or
provision of this Agreement is illegal, unenforceable or in conflict with any state, federal or any
other applicable law, it is the Parties intention that the Agreement be deemed to be modified so
that its purpose can lawfully be effectuated and, as so modified, the balance of this Agreement
shall be enforceable and remain in full force and effect.
c. This Agreement shall extend to, be binding upon, and inure to the
benefit of the Parties and their respective successors, heirs and assigns.
d. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance
with the laws of the State of New York. Any action or proceeding between the Parties shall be
commenced only in the civil, state or Federal Courts located in the State, City and County of
New York, and all Parties hereby submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the said Courts.
e. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts each
of which when so executed shall be deemed to be an original and all of which when taken
together shall constitute one and the same agreement.
f. Each of the Parties hereto has joined in and contributed to drafting this
Agreement and each of the Parties hereby agree that there shall be no presumption favoring any
of the parties based upon draftsmanship.
g. No waiver of any breach of any term or provision of this Agreement
shall be construed to be, nor shall be, a waiver of any other breach of this Agreement. No waiver
shall be binding unless in writing and signed by the party waiving the breach.
6
h. The Parties hereto warrant and represent to each other that they are
legally authorized and entitled to settle and release every claim, right, act, damage, debt, demand,
liability, accounting, reckoning, obligation, cost, right or action, claim for relief, or cause of
action referred to and released herein, and to give a valid full and final acquittance therefor, to
make the payments provided for herein, and to enter into this Agreement. The Parties further
warrant and represent to one another that this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and
delivered by such party and constitutes legal, valid, binding and enforceable obligations of such
party.
14. Notices. Any notices, requests, demands and other communications
provided for by this Agreement shall be sufficient only if in writing and if sent by registered or
certified mail to the following:
a. If to Sola:
Sola Showroom
45 E 20th Street 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10003
Attn: Ms. Lisa Natt-Irom
With a copy sent simultaneously and in like manner to:
Oved & Oved LLP
101 Avenue of the Americas, 15th Floor
New York, NY 10013
Attn: Terrence A. Oved, Esq.
b. Michiels and Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry, Inc.:
1823 Burnell Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90065
Attn: Catherine Michiels
15. Costs, etc. The Parties shall be solely responsible for their respective
attorneys’ fees and other related costs associated with this Agreement.
16. Acknowledgments.
a. The Parties hereto acknowledge and represent that the have read and
fully understand this Agreement, that they are voluntarily entering into this Agreement including
a general release of their claims against the Parties, and that they have consulted with their legal
counsel before doing so.
[Balance of Page Intentionally Left Blank]
[Execution Page Follows]
7
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have hereunto set their hand and
executed this Agreement as of the day and year first set above.
________________________________________ December ___, 2007
Catherine Michiels Date of Execution
Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry, Inc.
________________________________________ December ___, 2007
Catherine Michiels, President Date of Execution
Max Ely Ltd. d/b/a Sola
________________________________________ December ___, 2007
Elisa Natt-Irom, President Date of Execution
8
IN PRESENCE OF:
STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF ss:
On November __, 2007, before me personally came Catherine Michiels, known to me to be the individual
described in, and who executed the foregoing SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND RELEASE and duly
acknowledged to me that she executed the same in her acting corporate capacity as an authorized agent for Catherine
Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry, Inc.
NOTARY PUBLIC
STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF ss:
On November __, 2007, before me personally came Catherine Michiels, known to me to be the individual
described in, and who executed the foregoing SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND RELEASE and duly
acknowledged to me that she executed the same
NOTARY PUBLIC
STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF ss:
On November __ 2007, before me personally came Elisa Natt-Irom, known to me to be the individual
described in, and who executed the foregoing SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT AND RELEASE and duly
acknowledged to me that she executed the same in her acting corporate capacity as an authorized agent for Max Ely
Ltd. d/b/a Sola.
NOTARY PUBLIC
9
EXHIBIT A
CONFESSION OF JUDGMENT
10
EXHIBIT B
CONFESSION OF JUDGMENT
11
EXHIBIT C
STIPULATION OF DISCONTINUANCE
Exhibit P (BC403442)
1 October, 2007
Terrence A. Oved
OVED & OVED LLP
101 Avenue of the Americas
15th Floor
New York, NY 10013
Re: SOLA et al
Dear Mr. Oved:
Thank you for your letter of August 22, 2007 concerning the matter referenced above. I hereby inform you that Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry Inc
categorically denies the assertions made in the letter on behalf of your client(s), which misstate the facts of our involvement and are designed, no doubt, to have a coercive effect on me.
Furthermore, CMFJ Inc. disputes the balance you claim is owed. First, despite due demand, no samples were ever returned to me. Samples worth four thousand eighty dollars should be credited to any alleged balance.
SOLA et al have been aware of, and acquiesced to--as evidenced by their continued practice of accepting and depositing my checks--the arrangement by which commissions were paid to them. Even subsequent to my termination of the agreement, SOLA et al sought to continue the relationship with me, further evidencing acquiescence to the existing arrangement.
As you might know, and your client(s) will confirm, I did not have legal representation in negotiating the agreement between SOLA et al and me.
I believe the impetus behind the assertions made in your letter to me is to offset a claim I might make against SOLA et al for the destruction of brand properties my line enjoyed before engaging with them. Through their actions, SOLA et al conducted themselves in such a way as to distribute my line of jewelry in low-end clothing outlets without regard for the degrading effect on the positioning of my brand.
Through their actions, SOLA et al created a perception of my brand as an accessory label when it had been brought to them as a fine jewelry line distributed in outlets such as Barneys, Maxfield, L’Eclaireur and other high-end retailers. None of the sales outlets contracted by SOLA et al approached the standing of those already selling my brand when the agreement was entered into. In spite of my objections to this, SOLA et al continued to exhibit my line in trade shows catering to low-end clothing retailers, thus causing confusion amongst my hi-end clients.
Since terminating the relationship with SOLA et al, I have disassociated with forty percent of the retailers engaged by SOLA et al on the grounds that they did not provide appropriate positioning for the brand. The damage caused to my brand by the actions of SOLA et al is undeniable and will be recognizable to anyone with knowledge of brand management strategies and brand valuation. It only remains to make a calculation as to the extent of the injury.
Be advised that, without prejudice to any of the above and whilst reserving all possible claims against SOLA et al, I will make commission payments of five hundred dollars per month to SOLA. This is offered in settlement, not as any admission that the money is owed or that CMFJ Inc.has not been damaged.
Best regards,
Catherine Michiels
Terrence A. Oved
OVED & OVED LLP
101 Avenue of the Americas
15th Floor
New York, NY 10013
Re: SOLA et al
Dear Mr. Oved:
Thank you for your letter of August 22, 2007 concerning the matter referenced above. I hereby inform you that Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry Inc
categorically denies the assertions made in the letter on behalf of your client(s), which misstate the facts of our involvement and are designed, no doubt, to have a coercive effect on me.
Furthermore, CMFJ Inc. disputes the balance you claim is owed. First, despite due demand, no samples were ever returned to me. Samples worth four thousand eighty dollars should be credited to any alleged balance.
SOLA et al have been aware of, and acquiesced to--as evidenced by their continued practice of accepting and depositing my checks--the arrangement by which commissions were paid to them. Even subsequent to my termination of the agreement, SOLA et al sought to continue the relationship with me, further evidencing acquiescence to the existing arrangement.
As you might know, and your client(s) will confirm, I did not have legal representation in negotiating the agreement between SOLA et al and me.
I believe the impetus behind the assertions made in your letter to me is to offset a claim I might make against SOLA et al for the destruction of brand properties my line enjoyed before engaging with them. Through their actions, SOLA et al conducted themselves in such a way as to distribute my line of jewelry in low-end clothing outlets without regard for the degrading effect on the positioning of my brand.
Through their actions, SOLA et al created a perception of my brand as an accessory label when it had been brought to them as a fine jewelry line distributed in outlets such as Barneys, Maxfield, L’Eclaireur and other high-end retailers. None of the sales outlets contracted by SOLA et al approached the standing of those already selling my brand when the agreement was entered into. In spite of my objections to this, SOLA et al continued to exhibit my line in trade shows catering to low-end clothing retailers, thus causing confusion amongst my hi-end clients.
Since terminating the relationship with SOLA et al, I have disassociated with forty percent of the retailers engaged by SOLA et al on the grounds that they did not provide appropriate positioning for the brand. The damage caused to my brand by the actions of SOLA et al is undeniable and will be recognizable to anyone with knowledge of brand management strategies and brand valuation. It only remains to make a calculation as to the extent of the injury.
Be advised that, without prejudice to any of the above and whilst reserving all possible claims against SOLA et al, I will make commission payments of five hundred dollars per month to SOLA. This is offered in settlement, not as any admission that the money is owed or that CMFJ Inc.has not been damaged.
Best regards,
Catherine Michiels
Exhibit O (BC403442)
Valise Secrète Deal Memo
This deal memo is between David Edelstein (Investor) and Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry Incorporated (CMFCJI).
1) Investor agrees to give the sum of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) to CMFCJI;
2) The funds referenced in 1) above will be used by CMFCJI to produce a project known as the Valise Secrète;
3) The Valise Secrète project will consist of custom cases containing jewelry from the CMFCJI collection produced in a limited edition of twenty-five units;
4) Investor shall receive the sum of four thousand, two hundred fifty hundred dollars ($4,250) for each Valise Secrète case sold via a retail agent acting for CMFCJI;
5) Investor shall receive the sum of seven thousand, nine hundred dollars ($7,900) for each Valise Secrète case sold directly by CMFCJI to a retail customer;
6) Investor shall receive one of the Valise Secrète cases.
This Deal Memo is signed and agreed to on the twenty-eighth day of August, 2007 according to the laws of the California state.
David Edelstein Catherine Michiels
(for Catherine Michiels
Fine Custom Jewelry Incorporated)
This deal memo is between David Edelstein (Investor) and Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry Incorporated (CMFCJI).
1) Investor agrees to give the sum of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) to CMFCJI;
2) The funds referenced in 1) above will be used by CMFCJI to produce a project known as the Valise Secrète;
3) The Valise Secrète project will consist of custom cases containing jewelry from the CMFCJI collection produced in a limited edition of twenty-five units;
4) Investor shall receive the sum of four thousand, two hundred fifty hundred dollars ($4,250) for each Valise Secrète case sold via a retail agent acting for CMFCJI;
5) Investor shall receive the sum of seven thousand, nine hundred dollars ($7,900) for each Valise Secrète case sold directly by CMFCJI to a retail customer;
6) Investor shall receive one of the Valise Secrète cases.
This Deal Memo is signed and agreed to on the twenty-eighth day of August, 2007 according to the laws of the California state.
David Edelstein Catherine Michiels
(for Catherine Michiels
Fine Custom Jewelry Incorporated)
Exhibit N (BC403442)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:CONTACT:
Nia Tahani Davis
Purpose PR
(323) 988-5782
(646) 279-6008 (mobile)
nia@purposepr.com
www.catherinemichiels.com
Catherine Michiels debuts ‘Voyage’ documentary
Los Angeles, California, 2007
Jewelry designer Catherine Michiels introduces ‘Voyage’, a short documentary on her travels in Venice and Paris. The film is a cinematic look into the world of Catherine Michiels and provides clues as to the inspiration for the designs she creates for her collection.
“I receive emails from people all over the world offering their thoughts and comments on the pieces they’ve acquired from my collection. This short documentary is my thank you to them. I wanted to share the sights that inspire me.”
‘Voyage’ follows Catherine through the labyrinth of Venice where the architecture has inspired themes recognizable in her designs. The film then takes the viewer to Paris as Catherine introduces her line to the staff at L’Eclaireur, which has become the exclusive outlet for Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry in France. In addition to offering the collection, L’Eclaireur will host private consultations with Catherine for their customers for custom and personal orders.
The film also introduces a new feature of Catherine’s website; that of carnet d'adresse.
“Even before I published my magazine Moderne for distribution in Paris, London and New York, people were always asking me for the best addresses around the world to visit or shop. I still get these requests, so I thought I would create a listing on the website. Since ‘Voyage’ reveals Venice and Paris, I’ve included some of my favorite addresses in those cities as liner notes on the DVD.”
Fans of Catherine’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts. Takashimaya has joined Saks online, Ylang 23 and Fred Segal in Santa Monica among the world-wide sales locations for the Catherine Michiels collection.
‘Voyage’ has a running time of six minutes and can be viewed at: www.catherinemichiels.com
Bon voyage!
Exhibit L (BC403442)
“Voyage” is a cinematic look into the world of Catherine Michiels and provides clues as to the inspiration for the designs she creates for her collection. Shot in Venice and Paris, the film can be seen on Catherine’s website. Bon voyage!www.catherinemichiels.com
Friday, November 27, 2009
Exhibit K (BC403442)
Booklet text
Catherine
Catherine learned jewelry making at the Arts & Métiers Institute in Brussels. She studied gemology and diamond grading at the prestigious High Council for Diamonds in Antwerp.
A Reiki master, Catherine imbues her designs with a spiritual connotation that transcends jewelry and art. Her creations engage the mind, body and spirit in a thoughtful and persuasive manner. She collaborates with a Fair Trade workshop in Jaipur where street children learn the craft of jewelry making as a way of escaping poverty.
Philosophy
After working in the magazine business for Marie Claire and Elle, and publishing her own bi-monthly Moderne, Catherine returned to the world of jewelry and launched a line that has earned acclaim and helped spread her vision of spiritual and social responsibility around the world. “I was in India right after the Tsunami. I don’t think anyone can go to India without feeling a change within them, but I felt at home there. The culture, the artistry, the people and the way they confront hardship is inspiring.”
Recognition
“My designs are inspired by love, truth, serendipity and freedom. Each piece in the collection is a reflection of a moment in my life; something special to remind the wearer that the life within them is precious. The pieces in the ‘Recognition’ collection serve as a symbol of aesthetic and spiritual awareness that is worn by men and women around the world.
The Personal Collection
The pieces in the Personal Collection require a meeting with Catherine since each design is personalized for the man or woman who will wear it and is not offered publicly. The collection includes the mysterious Secret Box, the Holy Ring, the Mantra Ring as well as creations for the Chic Recycle offering.
Stardust
Catherine’s ‘Stardust’ bracelets, with their signature leather ties, have sparked an interesting phenomenon. Women start with one and go on to acquire and an entire collection, all worn together on the wrist, that they never remove. This attachment to the bracelets is so strong that three generations of women in a family will wear them evidencing the fact that they appeal to all ages. It is also worth noting that husbands and boyfriends have also become the effect of the phenomenon wearing the bracelets in combination next to their wristwatches.
Catherine
Catherine learned jewelry making at the Arts & Métiers Institute in Brussels. She studied gemology and diamond grading at the prestigious High Council for Diamonds in Antwerp.
A Reiki master, Catherine imbues her designs with a spiritual connotation that transcends jewelry and art. Her creations engage the mind, body and spirit in a thoughtful and persuasive manner. She collaborates with a Fair Trade workshop in Jaipur where street children learn the craft of jewelry making as a way of escaping poverty.
Philosophy
After working in the magazine business for Marie Claire and Elle, and publishing her own bi-monthly Moderne, Catherine returned to the world of jewelry and launched a line that has earned acclaim and helped spread her vision of spiritual and social responsibility around the world. “I was in India right after the Tsunami. I don’t think anyone can go to India without feeling a change within them, but I felt at home there. The culture, the artistry, the people and the way they confront hardship is inspiring.”
Recognition
“My designs are inspired by love, truth, serendipity and freedom. Each piece in the collection is a reflection of a moment in my life; something special to remind the wearer that the life within them is precious. The pieces in the ‘Recognition’ collection serve as a symbol of aesthetic and spiritual awareness that is worn by men and women around the world.
The Personal Collection
The pieces in the Personal Collection require a meeting with Catherine since each design is personalized for the man or woman who will wear it and is not offered publicly. The collection includes the mysterious Secret Box, the Holy Ring, the Mantra Ring as well as creations for the Chic Recycle offering.
Stardust
Catherine’s ‘Stardust’ bracelets, with their signature leather ties, have sparked an interesting phenomenon. Women start with one and go on to acquire and an entire collection, all worn together on the wrist, that they never remove. This attachment to the bracelets is so strong that three generations of women in a family will wear them evidencing the fact that they appeal to all ages. It is also worth noting that husbands and boyfriends have also become the effect of the phenomenon wearing the bracelets in combination next to their wristwatches.
Exhibit J (BC403442)
Catherine Michiels Catherine learned jewelry making at the Arts & Métiers Institute in Brussels. She studied gemology and diamond grading at the prestigious High Council for Diamonds in Antwerp. However, her start in creating jewelry came much earlier. “In the summer of 1973, I spent time with my Grandmother buying costume jewelry from the traveling salesmen for her boutique on the boardwalk in the North Coast of Belgium. “I had just started to make enamel pendants when a client saw them and placed an order for 100 pieces. My jewelry career had begun.”
After working in the magazine business for Marie Claire and Elle, and publishing her own bimonthly Moderne, Catherine returned to the world of jewelry and launched a line that has earned acclaim and helped spread her vision of spiritual and social responsibility around the world. A Reiki master, Catherine imbues her creations with a spiritual connotation that transcends jewelry and art.
It would be impossible to speak of Catherine Michiels without mention of India. “I was there right after the Tsunami. I don’t think anyone can go to India without feeling a change within them. The culture, the artistry, the people and the way they confront hardship is inspiring.” She collaborates with a Fair Trade workshop in Jaipur where street children learn the craft of jewelry making as a way of escaping poverty.
Based in the USA, all of the sculpted pieces in Catherine’s collection are her own designs. Her concept of Fair Trade extends to every relationship with supplier and client alike and she maintains a personal connection to each of the artisans and craftsmen who work on her pieces. Her training at the Arts & Métiers Institute gives her ability to supervisor her workers with a certainty born of experience.
Catherine’s collection serves as a symbol of aesthetic and spiritual awareness for a clientele that includes Hollywood’s top stars and trendsetters. It is no surprise that gross sales figures for Catherine’s line more than doubled in the last year (2005: $170K/2006: $400K). Catherine has been in business for 3 ½ years.
Exhibit I (BC403442)
Lisa Natt
SOLA
45 East 20th Street/ 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10003
April 9, 2007
Re: Catherine Michiels
Dear Ms Natt:
This letter serves to inform you, pursuant to Section VII(B) of the “Sales Representative Agreement” between Max Ely LTD d/b/a Sola and Catherine Michiels, of my intent to terminate said Agreement. This letter, therefore, serves as the sixty day notice required by the Agreement.
Warmest regards,
Catherine Michiels
SOLA
45 East 20th Street/ 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10003
April 9, 2007
Re: Catherine Michiels
Dear Ms Natt:
This letter serves to inform you, pursuant to Section VII(B) of the “Sales Representative Agreement” between Max Ely LTD d/b/a Sola and Catherine Michiels, of my intent to terminate said Agreement. This letter, therefore, serves as the sixty day notice required by the Agreement.
Warmest regards,
Catherine Michiels
Exhibit H (BC403442)
A budget and explanation concerningCatherine Michiels
Fine Custom Jewelry
This presentation should be viewed with the following gross sales figures for Catherine Michiels in mind:
- Sales 2005 : $170K
- Sales 2006 : $400K
- Sales 2007 projection: $900K
- Sales 2008 projection: $2M
The forward looking figures for ‘07 and ’08 are projections based on the current operation and do not take into account the venture that we are currently discussing.
The budget and schedule presented here represent the activity that has been discussed, which includes the aggrandizement of the Catherine Michiels brand by:
1) putting increased emphasis on the ‘high line’ collection;
2) enhancing profit margins on the basic collection via sourcing in India;
3) assuming control of sales and management of client accounts;
4) establishing a showcase location for the brand in Paris;
5) expanding the number of established private customers (Sharon Stone, Johnny Depp, Ellen DeGeneres, Elton John, Sheryl Crow) for ‘high line’ and special order items that have larger margins and create visibility for the brand.
In the immediate, there would be a need to set up a dedicated office/workshop to handle orders, shipping and production. Catherine would need to research and source new materials in India and Italy for new designs to incorporate within her line of ‘best sellers’ (the Recognition collection, the Stardust bracelets) and within her ‘high line’ (the Secret Box, the Bob collection and the signature collection of Catherine Michiels rings). The design and production of material to present the brand--packaging, signage, business cards, product hang tags, catalogues, shipping supplies, etc.—would follow.
A presentation event for the press in Paris would be scheduled in early December of 2007 to ensure editorial content in the appropriate magazines in spring 2008 introducing new pieces and re-affirming the established collection. A similar event is foreseen in New York. By the end of 2008, a showcase location for the Catherine Michiels brand would be established in Paris allowing corporate and private clients, as well as the media, to have a tangible experience of the designer’s world and aesthetics.
This is a private and confidential document intended for a limited distribution
Budget Projection for first installment of $245K
(April-July 2007)
245,000
- 50,000---Catherine salary
- 25,000---managing director
- 15,000---office/workspace (rent/deposits)
- 2,200---communications
- 7,000---computers
- 9,000---studio manager
- 3,200---temp help
- 4,000---accountant
- 5,000---furniture/safe/alarm/insurance
- 20,000---new product development (molds/mold duplication)
- 7,500---travel India (April)
- 6,500---travel Italy, new vendor sourcing (May)
- 3,000---travel to New York, major acct. mgmt. (June)
- 5,000---trade show prep Paris
- 40,000---findings & supplies (India & USA)
- 2,000---website creation & maintenance
- 1,600---shipping/messengers
- 10,000---legal
- 20,000---contingency
9,000 balance
Budget Projection for second installment of $245K
(August-November 2007)
245,000
- 50,000---Catherine salary
- 25,000---managing director
- 10,000---office rent
- 2,200---communications
- 9,000---studio manager
- 3,200---temp help
- 4,000---accountant
- 1,400---alarm/insurance
- 20,000---new product development (molds/mold duplication)
- 7,500---travel India (October)
- 6,500---travel Paris (September)
- 6,000---travel to New York (August & October)
- 10,000---Paris trade show Sept. (fees/install./assistant/printing/shipping)
- 12,000---Public Relations
- 50,000---findings & supplies
- 3,000---website creation & maintenance
- 1,600---shipping/messengers
- 20,000---contingency
3,600 balance
Budget Projection for third installment of $245K
(December 2007-March 2008)
245,000
- 50,000---Catherine salary
- 25,000---managing director
- 10,000---office rent
- 2,200---communications
- 9,000---studio manager
- 3,200---temp help
- 4,000---accountant
- 1,400---alarm/insurance
- 20,000---new product development (molds/mold duplication)
- 7,500---travel India (January)
- 6,500---travel Paris presentation (December)
- 7,500---Paris presentation
- 3,000---travel to New York (February)
- 5,000---New York presentation
- 12,000---Public Relations
- 50,000---findings & supplies
- 3,000---website creation & maintenance
- 1,600---shipping/messengers
- 20,000---contingency
4,100 balance
Catherine Michiels
Britannica Online defines art as "the use of skill and imagination in the creation of aesthetic objects, environments, or experiences that can be shared with others.” It is safe to say, therefore, that the creations of Catherine Michiels qualify as art, which engages the mind, body and spirit in a thoughtful and persuasive manner. It is noteworthy that her sculpted jewelry has attracted a following drawn to the aesthetics and philosophy they represent. A Reiki master, Catherine imbues her creations with a spiritual connotation that transcends jewelry and art.
Catherine learned jewelry making at the Arts & Métiers Institute in Brussels. She studied gemology and diamond grading at the prestigious High Council for Diamonds in Antwerp. However, her start in creating jewelry came much earlier. “In the summer of 1973, I spent time with my Grandmother buying costume jewelry from the traveling salesmen for her boutique on the boardwalk in the North Coast of Belgium. “I had just started to make enamel pendants when a client saw them and placed an order for 100 pieces. My jewelry career had begun.”
After working in the magazine business for Marie Claire and Elle, and publishing her own bi-monthly Moderne, Catherine returned to the world of jewelry and launched a line that has earned acclaim and helped spread her vision of spiritual and social responsibility around the world. And then, there is the matter of India.
It would be impossible to speak of Catherine Michiels without mention of India. “I was there right after the Tsunami. I don’t think anyone can go to India without feeling a change within them, but I felt at home there. The culture, the artistry, the people and the way they confront hardship is inspiring.” She collaborates with a Fair Trade workshop in Jaipur where street children learn the craft of jewelry making as a way of escaping poverty.
Fans of Catherine’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Sheryl Crow, Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts. Takashimaya has joined Barney’s, Maxfield and Ylang 23 among the world-wide sales locations for the Catherine Michiels collection.
The pieces in the ‘Recognition’ collection and her one-of-a-kind creations all serve as a symbol of aesthetic and
spiritual awareness for a clientele that includes the elite of Hollywood.
www.catherinemichiels.com
Exhibit G (BC403442)
“Bob”Sa vie et son oeuvre
Bob is a signature creation of designer Catherine Michiels. He is unusual as skulls go in that he has a following comprised of both men and women who are drawn to his ‘Mona Lisa’ smile and the sense of irony he conveys with his bemused countenance. He is worn as a ring, pendant and/ or bracelet charm; even as an earring. Most often he is sought in yellow gold though he has been known to appear in rose gold, white gold, sterling silver and bronze.
Bob’s motto is momento mori, which translates literally as ‘remember you must die’. Close friends reveal that the meaning is more akin to carpe diem rather than anything foreboding or morose. Indeed, ‘eat, drink and be merry’ is a way of life for Bob, whose eyes of unequal size diamonds (or sapphires) give the impression that Bob has partied hard and lived not to regret it. A survivor is Bob.
Though not one to kiss-and-tell, Bob has been linked with many of the first ladies of the entertainment world and leaders of business frequently seek out his companionship. So as not to make one have to ask, that is a lotus sprouting from the top of Bob’s head. It represents the philosophy of many cultures and the rising from our darkness toward our highest good.
Bob is appropriate in any setting or circumstance and is welcomed everywhere as though you’d brought Jack Nicholson along to meet your friends.
www.catherinemichiels.com
Exhibit F (BC403442)
(Photos in exhibit not appearing here, but can be viewed at: http://catherinemichiels.blogspot.com/)
http://catherinemichiels.blogspot.com/
CATHERINE MICHIELS
WWW.CATHERINEMICHIELS.COM
· sm@catherinemichiels.com
SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 2008
Le Tiaré by Catherine Michiels
The tiare flower is a symbol of Tahiti. I chose it for the Recognition collection as a reminder to expand your horizons, to explore and go beyond your usual limits.
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 3:56 PM 0 COMMENTS
FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2008
Le Petit Fred from Catherine Michiels
Le Petit Fred, designed by guest artist Colette Bautier with Catherine Michiels, is the first amulet for children.
Catherine grew up watching her mother Colette draw and paint her signature bird on wood panels or canvas as gifts for her friends' children. It was only a matter of time for "Le Petit Fred", named after Catherine's brother, to enter the jewelry world as an amulet for children.
..The back of the amulet reads "Happiness". The charm is worn on a small silk tie tied (specially sized for children) around the wrist for boys and girls available in pale pink, blended green (Luberon) or blended blue (Hotel Normandy).
Available in silver, bronze and gold. Le Petit Fred's message is : "Smile, you are the truth."
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 2:31 PM 0 COMMENTS
THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2008
Julia Roberts wears Catherine Michiels on Oprah Winfrey
Julia Roberts and Sophie Uliano celebrated Earth Day with an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey show wearing designs by Catherine Michiels. Julia wore the Shankha Trinity in yellow gold, which features the Shanka (Sanskrit for conch shell), Lotus and Mudra each representing the transient nature of life. Julia and Sophie were followed on the show by Sandra Bullock who also wears pieces from Catherine's collection.
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 9:32 AM 0 COMMENTS
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30, 2008
Valentine limited edition ‘Always’ for Steven Alan from Catherine Michiels
Los Angeles, California, 2008Jewelry designer Catherine Michiels is offering a limited edition Valentine offering of her ‘Always’ pendant from the Recognition collection as an exclusive for Steven Alan. This special pendant is available in sterling silver with five rubies as highlights.The ‘Always’ bears the inscription, “I’ll never stop loving you”; a reminder that you should love yourself and then go on to love another.The ‘Always’ is designed by Catherine to be worn on a same silk tie as a bracelet or necklace. They are often worn by men next to their wristwatch.The Valentine ‘Always’ can only be found in Steven Alan stores or at: www.stevenalan.comTwenty-five percent of the proceeds will go to Love 146 for the protection of children.
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 1:28 PM 2 COMMENTS
SATURDAY, JANUARY 19, 2008
Robo Bro
Los Angeles, California, 2008Charles Arnaud Demeester, the son of jewelry designer Catherine Michiels, has designed and launched his first creation known as ‘Robo Bro’—a sterling silver pendant in the form of a robot with attitude.“I first created Robo Bro in some paintings I made when we were living in New York,” says Charles. “I sold them to people in the street; five dollars for the small ones and ten for the larger ones. I was seven at the time.”More recently, Charles refined the design providing detail to the ‘Robo Bro’s’ internals as seen from the back of the mini sculpture. The result is the cocky and charming pendant that is a reflection of the designer’s personality. The ‘Robo Bro’ pendant will soon be accompanied by a T-shirt sporting the likeness.Charles is currently in the seventh grade at a French-American school in Los Angeles and speaks French and English with equal ease. Last year, Charles received the Athlete of the Year trophy at school where he excels at soccer and baseball. He is also active in off-road motorcycling and is an accomplished skateboarder.Fans of his mother’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts. Charles has set his sites on a slightly different market for ‘Robo Bro’. “I can see kids my age wearing “Robot Bro’, but I think some adults will want him, too. Except they’ll probably want him in gold with diamond eyes.” He adds, “’Robo Bro’ is cool, like ‘Bob’, one of my mom’s designs. Everyone likes ‘Bob’ no matter what age they are. I think ’Robot Bro’ will get the same reaction.”’Robo Bro’ can be found at: www.catherinemichiels.com
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 9:25 AM 0 COMMENTS
MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 2008
Catherine Michiels debuts ‘Amulet’ series within her Recognition collection
Los Angeles, California, 2008Jewelry designer Catherine Michiels debuts the new ‘Amulet’ series as an addition to her Recognition collection. The first two pieces to be unveiled are the Zinnia and La Manouche. Amulet is defined as an object that protects one from trouble.The Zinnia is a flower known to attract butterflies, which are seen as the personification of a person’s soul. With “Love Absent Friends” inscribed on the reverse side, the Zinnia serves to remind us of those who mean so much but, because of time and distance, do not inhabit our daily lives.La Manouche (the Gypsy) is a reminder to live fearlessly. The branch and cone are from the pine tree which is evergreen and immune to the change of seasons as we need to be immune from all that life can put in our path. The engraving on the reverse side reads, “Fearless”.“I wear mine next to my watch,” Catherine explains. “When time demands my attention, I am also reminded of what is really important in my life.”These amulets are designed by Catherine to be worn together on the same silk tie as a bracelet or necklace. Their unique shape allows them to fit together as if they were one piece.
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 1:51 PM 0 COMMENTS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2007
"Bob" by Catherine Michiels
“Bob”Sa vie et son oeuvreBob is a signature creation of designer Catherine Michiels. He is unusual as skulls go in that he has a following comprised of both men and women who are drawn to his ‘Mona Lisa’ smile and the sense of irony he conveys with his bemused countenance. He is worn as a ring, pendant and/or bracelet charm; even as an earring. Most often he is sought in yellow gold though he has been known to appear in rose gold, white gold, sterling silver and bronze.Bob’s motto is momento mori, which translates literally as ‘remember you must die’. Close friends reveal that the meaning is more akin to carpe diem rather than anything foreboding or morose. Indeed, ‘eat, drink and be merry’ is a way of life for Bob, whose eyes of unequal size diamonds (or sapphires) give the impression that Bob has partied hard and lived not to regret it. A survivor is Bob.Though not one to kiss-and-tell, Bob has been linked with many of the first ladies of the entertainment world and leaders of business frequently seek out his companionship. So as not to make one have to ask, that is a lotus sprouting from the top of Bob’s head. It represents the philosophy of many cultures and the rising from our darkness toward our highest good.Bob is appropriate in any setting or circumstance and is welcomed everywhere as though you’d brought Jack Nicholson along to meet your friends.http://www.catherinemichiels.com/
..
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 12:34 PM 0 COMMENTS
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2007
Catherine Michiels--Le Passé Antérieur Collection
With the Passé Antérieur Collection , Catherine Michiels invites you to live “La Vie de Chateau” and discover the pleasures of experiencing French country living—past and present—in your every day life.Jewelry-Handbags-Clothing-Furnishings“La Vie de Chateau is a frame of mind, a quality of aesthetics and a sense of well-being that come from living in graceful circumstances where one is constantly inspired and rewarded by beauty."
....................................................................Catherine Michiels
..
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 10:58 AM 0 COMMENTS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2007
The Holy Ring by Catherine Michiels
Q: Why do you think the Holy Ring has become a fetish piece amongst your private clientele?Catherine: It is an unusual ring that seems to come from another time; more like a museum piece. It is worn by both men and women and conveys a sense of history.Q: Was it not worn by Sharon stone in a Dior campaign?Catherine: It was and she wears it beautifully!
..
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 9:57 AM 0 COMMENTS
SUNDAY, AUGUST 26, 2007
Catherine Michiels debuts ‘Voyage’ documentary
CONTACT:Stephen Mitchell(323) 222-2327(323) 222-2477 (fax)sm@catherinemichiels.comwww.catherinemichiels.com
Los Angeles, California, 2007Jewelry designer Catherine Michiels introduces ‘Voyage’, a short documentary on her travels in Venice and Paris. The film is a cinematic look into the world of Catherine Michiels and provides clues as to the inspiration for the designs she creates for her collection.“I receive emails from people all over the world offering their thoughts and comments on the pieces they’ve acquired from my collection. This short documentary is my thank you to them. I wanted to share the sights that inspire me.”‘Voyage’ follows Catherine through the labyrinth of Venice where the architecture has inspired themes recognizable in her designs. The film then takes the viewer to Paris as Catherine introduces her line to the staff at L’Eclaireur, which has become the exclusive outlet for Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry in France. In addition to offering the collection, L’Eclaireur will host private consultations with Catherine for their customers for custom and personal orders.The film also introduces a new feature of Catherine’s website; that ofcarnet d'adresse.“Even before I published my magazine Moderne for distribution in Paris, London and New York, people were always asking me for the best addresses around the world to visit or shop. I still get these requests, so I thought I would create a listing on the website. Since ‘Voyage’ reveals Venice and Paris, I’ve included some of my favorite addresses in those cities as liner notes on the DVD.”Fans of Catherine’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts. Takashimaya has joined Saks online, Ylang 23 and Fred Segal in Santa Monica among the world-wide sales locations for the Catherine Michiels collection.‘Voyage’ has a running time of six minutes and can be viewed at: www.catherinemichiels.comBon voyage!
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 10:04 AM 0 COMMENTS
SUNDAY, APRIL 29, 2007
Catherine Michiels in the Stylephile
April 4, 2007The Spirit of GivingOften when a line claims celebrity fans, those actors have actually been "gifted" the pieces for free by hopeful designers and publicists. Spiritual jewelry designer Catherine Michiels can boast a different level of success, as her ancient talisman-inspired pieces are notoriously bought (yes, with an actual monetary exchange) and gifted by celebrities for celebrities. Since Michiels is also a Reike Master, perhaps her good vibes are responsible for A-list exchanges like Sharon Stone buying Elton John gold bracelets, Portia de Rossi giving Ellen Degeneres an "I’ll Never Stop Loving You" pendant, and Gwyneth and Apple receiving rose gold "Stardust" bracelets from a friend. Johnny Depp has custom designed a piece, Sienna Miller sports an ebony and skull "Stardust" bracelet, Uma Thurman rocked her own "Stardust" bracelets and Sheryl Crow bought every piece at her Self magazine shoot. Previously, Michiels’ lotus flower and skull Bob motif has only been available in ring form (pictured here), but the designer next plans to expand that collection. Ready To Wear and Custom: $150-$65,000, LA: Maxfield, 8825 Melrose Ave., (310) 274-8800, NYC: Takashimaya, 693 Fifth Ave., (212) 350-0100http://www.thestylephile.com/blog/330000033/post/1240008124.html?category_id=9469
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 1:12 PM 0 COMMENTS
THURSDAY, MARCH 8, 2007
The Catherine Michiels collection is now available at Saks Fifth Avenue
CONTACT:Emily Rosenbauer SOLA Showroom(212) 620-0988 (phone)(212) 620-0566 (FAX) emily@solaSR.com www.catherinemichiels.comThe Catherine Michiels collection is now available at Saks Fifth AvenueLos Angeles, California, February, 2007The Catherine Michiels collection is now available at Saks Fifth Avenue available on:www.saksfifthavenue.comSaks Fifth Avenue is introducing Catherine in the ‘Fashion Incubator’ section of their website where three designers are featured. Catherine’s Stardust bracelets and necklaces can be seen in gold, lapis lazuli, tourmaline, silver, ebony and bone making for a celebratory combination to be worn separately or all together. They are presented along with her Recognition collection of pendants on washed silk that can be worn as bracelets or around the neck.Fans of Catherine’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Sheryl Crow. Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts. Pieces in the Catherine Michiels collection have been sought out and treasured by a loyal clientele responding to the aesthetics as well as the theme of each piece. Catherine, a Reiki master, imbues her creations with a spiritual connotation that transcends jewelry and art. “I want to create something special that would remind the wearer that peace begins within. Finding peace for oneself is an important step towards creating it for the world. My designs are inspired by love, truth, serendipity and freedom.”
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 10:08 AM 0 COMMENTS
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· Catherine Michiels
CATHERINE MICHIELS
BLOG ARCHIVE
· ▼ 2008 (6)
o ▼ June (1)
§ Le Tiaré by Catherine Michiels
o ► May (2)
o ► January (3)
· ► 2007 (6)
ABOUT ME
CMFCJ
VIEW MY COMPLETE PROFILE
http://catherinemichiels.blogspot.com/
CATHERINE MICHIELS
WWW.CATHERINEMICHIELS.COM
· sm@catherinemichiels.com
SUNDAY, JUNE 29, 2008
Le Tiaré by Catherine Michiels
The tiare flower is a symbol of Tahiti. I chose it for the Recognition collection as a reminder to expand your horizons, to explore and go beyond your usual limits.
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 3:56 PM 0 COMMENTS
FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2008
Le Petit Fred from Catherine Michiels
Le Petit Fred, designed by guest artist Colette Bautier with Catherine Michiels, is the first amulet for children.
Catherine grew up watching her mother Colette draw and paint her signature bird on wood panels or canvas as gifts for her friends' children. It was only a matter of time for "Le Petit Fred", named after Catherine's brother, to enter the jewelry world as an amulet for children.
..The back of the amulet reads "Happiness". The charm is worn on a small silk tie tied (specially sized for children) around the wrist for boys and girls available in pale pink, blended green (Luberon) or blended blue (Hotel Normandy).
Available in silver, bronze and gold. Le Petit Fred's message is : "Smile, you are the truth."
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 2:31 PM 0 COMMENTS
THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2008
Julia Roberts wears Catherine Michiels on Oprah Winfrey
Julia Roberts and Sophie Uliano celebrated Earth Day with an appearance on the Oprah Winfrey show wearing designs by Catherine Michiels. Julia wore the Shankha Trinity in yellow gold, which features the Shanka (Sanskrit for conch shell), Lotus and Mudra each representing the transient nature of life. Julia and Sophie were followed on the show by Sandra Bullock who also wears pieces from Catherine's collection.
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 9:32 AM 0 COMMENTS
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30, 2008
Valentine limited edition ‘Always’ for Steven Alan from Catherine Michiels
Los Angeles, California, 2008Jewelry designer Catherine Michiels is offering a limited edition Valentine offering of her ‘Always’ pendant from the Recognition collection as an exclusive for Steven Alan. This special pendant is available in sterling silver with five rubies as highlights.The ‘Always’ bears the inscription, “I’ll never stop loving you”; a reminder that you should love yourself and then go on to love another.The ‘Always’ is designed by Catherine to be worn on a same silk tie as a bracelet or necklace. They are often worn by men next to their wristwatch.The Valentine ‘Always’ can only be found in Steven Alan stores or at: www.stevenalan.comTwenty-five percent of the proceeds will go to Love 146 for the protection of children.
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 1:28 PM 2 COMMENTS
SATURDAY, JANUARY 19, 2008
Robo Bro
Los Angeles, California, 2008Charles Arnaud Demeester, the son of jewelry designer Catherine Michiels, has designed and launched his first creation known as ‘Robo Bro’—a sterling silver pendant in the form of a robot with attitude.“I first created Robo Bro in some paintings I made when we were living in New York,” says Charles. “I sold them to people in the street; five dollars for the small ones and ten for the larger ones. I was seven at the time.”More recently, Charles refined the design providing detail to the ‘Robo Bro’s’ internals as seen from the back of the mini sculpture. The result is the cocky and charming pendant that is a reflection of the designer’s personality. The ‘Robo Bro’ pendant will soon be accompanied by a T-shirt sporting the likeness.Charles is currently in the seventh grade at a French-American school in Los Angeles and speaks French and English with equal ease. Last year, Charles received the Athlete of the Year trophy at school where he excels at soccer and baseball. He is also active in off-road motorcycling and is an accomplished skateboarder.Fans of his mother’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts. Charles has set his sites on a slightly different market for ‘Robo Bro’. “I can see kids my age wearing “Robot Bro’, but I think some adults will want him, too. Except they’ll probably want him in gold with diamond eyes.” He adds, “’Robo Bro’ is cool, like ‘Bob’, one of my mom’s designs. Everyone likes ‘Bob’ no matter what age they are. I think ’Robot Bro’ will get the same reaction.”’Robo Bro’ can be found at: www.catherinemichiels.com
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 9:25 AM 0 COMMENTS
MONDAY, JANUARY 14, 2008
Catherine Michiels debuts ‘Amulet’ series within her Recognition collection
Los Angeles, California, 2008Jewelry designer Catherine Michiels debuts the new ‘Amulet’ series as an addition to her Recognition collection. The first two pieces to be unveiled are the Zinnia and La Manouche. Amulet is defined as an object that protects one from trouble.The Zinnia is a flower known to attract butterflies, which are seen as the personification of a person’s soul. With “Love Absent Friends” inscribed on the reverse side, the Zinnia serves to remind us of those who mean so much but, because of time and distance, do not inhabit our daily lives.La Manouche (the Gypsy) is a reminder to live fearlessly. The branch and cone are from the pine tree which is evergreen and immune to the change of seasons as we need to be immune from all that life can put in our path. The engraving on the reverse side reads, “Fearless”.“I wear mine next to my watch,” Catherine explains. “When time demands my attention, I am also reminded of what is really important in my life.”These amulets are designed by Catherine to be worn together on the same silk tie as a bracelet or necklace. Their unique shape allows them to fit together as if they were one piece.
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 1:51 PM 0 COMMENTS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2007
"Bob" by Catherine Michiels
“Bob”Sa vie et son oeuvreBob is a signature creation of designer Catherine Michiels. He is unusual as skulls go in that he has a following comprised of both men and women who are drawn to his ‘Mona Lisa’ smile and the sense of irony he conveys with his bemused countenance. He is worn as a ring, pendant and/or bracelet charm; even as an earring. Most often he is sought in yellow gold though he has been known to appear in rose gold, white gold, sterling silver and bronze.Bob’s motto is momento mori, which translates literally as ‘remember you must die’. Close friends reveal that the meaning is more akin to carpe diem rather than anything foreboding or morose. Indeed, ‘eat, drink and be merry’ is a way of life for Bob, whose eyes of unequal size diamonds (or sapphires) give the impression that Bob has partied hard and lived not to regret it. A survivor is Bob.Though not one to kiss-and-tell, Bob has been linked with many of the first ladies of the entertainment world and leaders of business frequently seek out his companionship. So as not to make one have to ask, that is a lotus sprouting from the top of Bob’s head. It represents the philosophy of many cultures and the rising from our darkness toward our highest good.Bob is appropriate in any setting or circumstance and is welcomed everywhere as though you’d brought Jack Nicholson along to meet your friends.http://www.catherinemichiels.com/
..
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 12:34 PM 0 COMMENTS
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2007
Catherine Michiels--Le Passé Antérieur Collection
With the Passé Antérieur Collection , Catherine Michiels invites you to live “La Vie de Chateau” and discover the pleasures of experiencing French country living—past and present—in your every day life.Jewelry-Handbags-Clothing-Furnishings“La Vie de Chateau is a frame of mind, a quality of aesthetics and a sense of well-being that come from living in graceful circumstances where one is constantly inspired and rewarded by beauty."
....................................................................Catherine Michiels
..
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 10:58 AM 0 COMMENTS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2007
The Holy Ring by Catherine Michiels
Q: Why do you think the Holy Ring has become a fetish piece amongst your private clientele?Catherine: It is an unusual ring that seems to come from another time; more like a museum piece. It is worn by both men and women and conveys a sense of history.Q: Was it not worn by Sharon stone in a Dior campaign?Catherine: It was and she wears it beautifully!
..
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 9:57 AM 0 COMMENTS
SUNDAY, AUGUST 26, 2007
Catherine Michiels debuts ‘Voyage’ documentary
CONTACT:Stephen Mitchell(323) 222-2327(323) 222-2477 (fax)sm@catherinemichiels.comwww.catherinemichiels.com
Los Angeles, California, 2007Jewelry designer Catherine Michiels introduces ‘Voyage’, a short documentary on her travels in Venice and Paris. The film is a cinematic look into the world of Catherine Michiels and provides clues as to the inspiration for the designs she creates for her collection.“I receive emails from people all over the world offering their thoughts and comments on the pieces they’ve acquired from my collection. This short documentary is my thank you to them. I wanted to share the sights that inspire me.”‘Voyage’ follows Catherine through the labyrinth of Venice where the architecture has inspired themes recognizable in her designs. The film then takes the viewer to Paris as Catherine introduces her line to the staff at L’Eclaireur, which has become the exclusive outlet for Catherine Michiels Fine Custom Jewelry in France. In addition to offering the collection, L’Eclaireur will host private consultations with Catherine for their customers for custom and personal orders.The film also introduces a new feature of Catherine’s website; that ofcarnet d'adresse.“Even before I published my magazine Moderne for distribution in Paris, London and New York, people were always asking me for the best addresses around the world to visit or shop. I still get these requests, so I thought I would create a listing on the website. Since ‘Voyage’ reveals Venice and Paris, I’ve included some of my favorite addresses in those cities as liner notes on the DVD.”Fans of Catherine’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts. Takashimaya has joined Saks online, Ylang 23 and Fred Segal in Santa Monica among the world-wide sales locations for the Catherine Michiels collection.‘Voyage’ has a running time of six minutes and can be viewed at: www.catherinemichiels.comBon voyage!
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 10:04 AM 0 COMMENTS
SUNDAY, APRIL 29, 2007
Catherine Michiels in the Stylephile
April 4, 2007The Spirit of GivingOften when a line claims celebrity fans, those actors have actually been "gifted" the pieces for free by hopeful designers and publicists. Spiritual jewelry designer Catherine Michiels can boast a different level of success, as her ancient talisman-inspired pieces are notoriously bought (yes, with an actual monetary exchange) and gifted by celebrities for celebrities. Since Michiels is also a Reike Master, perhaps her good vibes are responsible for A-list exchanges like Sharon Stone buying Elton John gold bracelets, Portia de Rossi giving Ellen Degeneres an "I’ll Never Stop Loving You" pendant, and Gwyneth and Apple receiving rose gold "Stardust" bracelets from a friend. Johnny Depp has custom designed a piece, Sienna Miller sports an ebony and skull "Stardust" bracelet, Uma Thurman rocked her own "Stardust" bracelets and Sheryl Crow bought every piece at her Self magazine shoot. Previously, Michiels’ lotus flower and skull Bob motif has only been available in ring form (pictured here), but the designer next plans to expand that collection. Ready To Wear and Custom: $150-$65,000, LA: Maxfield, 8825 Melrose Ave., (310) 274-8800, NYC: Takashimaya, 693 Fifth Ave., (212) 350-0100http://www.thestylephile.com/blog/330000033/post/1240008124.html?category_id=9469
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 1:12 PM 0 COMMENTS
THURSDAY, MARCH 8, 2007
The Catherine Michiels collection is now available at Saks Fifth Avenue
CONTACT:Emily Rosenbauer SOLA Showroom(212) 620-0988 (phone)(212) 620-0566 (FAX) emily@solaSR.com www.catherinemichiels.comThe Catherine Michiels collection is now available at Saks Fifth AvenueLos Angeles, California, February, 2007The Catherine Michiels collection is now available at Saks Fifth Avenue available on:www.saksfifthavenue.comSaks Fifth Avenue is introducing Catherine in the ‘Fashion Incubator’ section of their website where three designers are featured. Catherine’s Stardust bracelets and necklaces can be seen in gold, lapis lazuli, tourmaline, silver, ebony and bone making for a celebratory combination to be worn separately or all together. They are presented along with her Recognition collection of pendants on washed silk that can be worn as bracelets or around the neck.Fans of Catherine’s creations include Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Bosworth, Sandra Bullock, Sheryl Crow. Ellen DeGeneres, Macy Gray, Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Helen Hunt, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman and Naomi Watts. Pieces in the Catherine Michiels collection have been sought out and treasured by a loyal clientele responding to the aesthetics as well as the theme of each piece. Catherine, a Reiki master, imbues her creations with a spiritual connotation that transcends jewelry and art. “I want to create something special that would remind the wearer that peace begins within. Finding peace for oneself is an important step towards creating it for the world. My designs are inspired by love, truth, serendipity and freedom.”
POSTED BY CMFCJ AT 10:08 AM 0 COMMENTS
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)
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· Catherine Michiels
CATHERINE MICHIELS
BLOG ARCHIVE
· ▼ 2008 (6)
o ▼ June (1)
§ Le Tiaré by Catherine Michiels
o ► May (2)
o ► January (3)
· ► 2007 (6)
ABOUT ME
CMFCJ
VIEW MY COMPLETE PROFILE
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)