‘No’ isn’t a word that is allowed — Dinner with Annoushka Ducas MBE, Founder of Links of London & Annoushka Jewellery

Sometimes the most meaningful and inspiring conversations happen over casual meals. The Time Auction Blog is a snippet of our meetings with people who have found passion in their life and career, where we get a glimpse into their mentality behind their ventures.

There is little doubt that Annoushka Ducas’s designs are sensational. Rihanna wears her jewellery. Gwyneth Paltrow wears her jewellery. Even the Duchess of Cambridge wears her jewellery.

As founder of the brands Annoushka and Links of London, Annoushka designs through following her intuition — winning her numerous awards such as Gift Designer of the Year, Jewellery Designer of the Year, and in 2012 was even awarded the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire Queen Elizabeth II herself.

Her ability to create such sensations were, however, not developed overnight. It was the culmination of 25 years of hard work, working alongside master craftsmen and honing her intuition. But there is no doubt that it has all paid off.

What is your life motto or philosophy you live by?

I think it is very important not to take life too seriously and to have a good sense of humour.

It is also important to say yes to as many opportunities as possible and to keep your ears and eyes open — always!

From a young age my mother instilled a real tenacity in me that has stuck with me throughout my career. ‘No’ was not a word that was allowed to be used in our household and I have worked hard to instill this can-do attitude even today. You can always learn more and if you don’t ask, then you don’t get!

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I love gardening in my garden at home in West Sussex. I find it very relaxing and a good way to switch off after a busy week.

I also love walking along the beach near my home with my three French bulldogs, Pedro, Eric and Lenny.

What is one ask or action you want everyone to take away from meeting you?

I want women to love and enjoy my jewellery!

I hope that my designs will resonate with women and inspire them to wear their jewellery with pride.

I feel very strongly about empowering women and I hope my jewellery allows women to feel like they can rule the world.

Thank you Annoushka for generously donating your time to Time Auction, which has raised 76 volunteer hours for Orbis, Food Angel, and more!

These awesome photos are brought to you by Steve from KaChick — a marketplace where you can book a photographer anywhere, anytime, for anything!

Also hats off to The Hive Central for providing us with such a fabulous meeting spot.

For more amazing opportunities, visit Time Auction to volunteer and meet inspiring mentors!