In 2018 I took a business class through The Aesthetic Way that required writing a “Heart Story.” The story could be about anything, as long as it revolved around something or someone that had a profound impact on our business. I wrote mine about a person who had given me enchanting memories as a child. This week she went to be with the Lord, and the world will dearly miss her. The following is about the beloved Mrs. Young, a major creative influence behind Auburn and Ivory.
An Enchanting Neighbor
When I was a little girl, my family lived across the street from an older couple named John and Betty Young. Betty was in her late 50’s, and although she wouldn’t have called herself a “beauty,” she is one of the most beautiful people I have ever known. I carry the confidence and imagination she instilled in me to this day- calling her my original influencer.
A former ballerina, Betty owned many decadent ballet costumes that she generously allowed my sister and me to play in. The pale pink walls of her house showcased delicate china she had gathered over the years, along with other interesting antiques. She had an incredible French doll collection that we played with often and lovingly. Best of all, her back yard was a small English-style garden with a beautiful swimming pool. We would wander the garden, pretending we were in a fairy tale as we gathered rose petals in our skirts. Afterwards, she would serve tea and teach me to make delicate potpourri with the petals we had gathered. Of course, she always sent me home with an antique treasure to store them in.
We painted, danced to records, and baked treats for my parents. Mrs. Young (as I knew her) joyfully played along with wherever my imagination took me. She also knew when to step back and allow me to wander her yard or treasure-filled rooms alone, lost in my thoughts. Despite being just a young neighbor girl, Betty warmly welcomed me into her home, lavishing me with magical, girlhood conviviality.
When we moved away- I took the many gifts she had given me along to our new home. Not just a few silky costumes or pretty trinkets, but a sense of adventure, imagination and hospitality. I wandered the wooded area surrounding our house steeped in my imagination, building forts and gathering prized objects from nature. I would feel the sun on my face or the wind on my back and lose myself dreaming, as I had felt safe to do with Mrs. Young.
A Lasting Impact
Mrs. Young’s influence has a profound impact on who I am today. Her creative influence on Auburn and Ivory was nurturing creativity, an appreciation for meaningful objects, and developing authentic relationships. Through her, I discovered the joy of imaginative play and the magic of simple, heartfelt interactions. She also taught me how to create warm and inviting experiences for others. Her love of unique antiques and delicate treasures taught me the value of craftsmanship and infusing beauty into small details. At Auburn and Ivory, I strive to embody the spirit of adventure, imagination, and hospitality that Mrs. Young dearly imparted.