Last December, Lauren Gordon of Leesburg came across a social media post that stopped her in her tracks. Hillary Tattersall, founder of Chick’s Picks, had shared a message asking customers to donate their previously loved jewelry to support Tree of Life Ministries’ thrift store, The Clothing Closet.

The post read: “Would you please bring your previously loved jewelry to Chick’s Picks as a collection spot for Tree of Life’s thrift shop – The Clothing Closet? Jewelry to be sold at TCC Purcellville and Leesburg, and proceeds go directly to them. Bring your bag of gems to Holiday Pop Up at One Loudoun, 11/30–12/15.” For Lauren, it was an invitation to honor her late mother’s memory in a meaningful way. “My mother was always dressed to the nines,” Lauren shared. “Shopping was her hobby. She took such pride in how she presented herself. It was a different time.”

After her mother passed away about a year prior, Lauren inherited a large and colorful collection of vintage costume jewelry — brooches, dangling earrings, sparkling necklaces, hairpins, and bracelets in every hue imaginable. The pieces had sat untouched, beautiful reminders of a colorful life. So, when Lauren read Hillary’s post, she knew exactly what to do.

She gathered a generous portion of the collection and brought it to the Chick’s Picks holiday market. Hillary then ensured the jewelry was sent directly to The Clothing Closet, where the pieces were carefully packaged, sorted, and displayed, ready to bring new joy and style to someone else.

“I love that I am able to give back with this collection that my mother loved so much,” Lauren said.

The holiday drive at Chick’s Picks not only gave community members the chance to clear out their jewelry boxes and give their pieces new life, it sparked a ripple effect that extended far beyond the holiday season.

Thanks to the buzz generated by Hillary’s campaign, many new customers discovered The Clothing Closet and our mission of clothing with a cause. With affordable, high-quality clothing, shoes, and accessories, the store helps support individuals and families in need across Loudoun County and beyond.

Melissa Barton, store manager at The Clothing Closet in Leesburg, noted the impact:

“Our customers have been thrilled with the variety of jewelry we now offer, including vintage clip-on earrings to elegant formal necklaces and everything in between. Every piece has found new appreciation in our community, adding something truly special to our store.”

We’re incredibly thankful for Hillary, Lauren, and every person who contributed to the jewelry drive. Their generosity has made a lasting difference, and we can’t wait to see what next Christmas brings!