Tariq values authentic connections with those who appreciate his work, and despite his unconventional philosophy, his business has thrived through organic growth. The brand’s newest project is the construction of an atelier that will showcase every step of their manufacturing process, as well as the lifecycle of each product, in a space that embodies their commitment to innovation and transparency. While his point of view and integrity would be admirable for any business owner, in learning about his day-to-day life, it’s obvious that Tariq’s dedication, work ethic and rectitude are consistent themes throughout all touchpoints of his life.

5:00 am: Early Start and Gym Ritual

I wake up at 5:00 am every morning, often before my alarm goes off. There’s something profoundly peaceful about rising before the sun, embracing the quiet stillness of the early morning.

My routine is simple: a tall glass of water, hydrating my body and awakening my senses. By 5:30 am, I head to the gym, my sanctuary.

The rhythmic sounds of weights and treadmills and the feeling of my muscles engaging clear my mind and energize my body. This early start sets the tone for the rest of my day, both physically and mentally.

7:30 am: Home and may or may not be Family Time

I return home between 7:30 and 8:00 am. Sometimes, I catch the kids before they walk to school and give them a morning hug and kiss. Other times, they are already gone for the day.

9:30 am: Casting Time

At 9:30 am, it’s time for casting. Our in-house casting schedule, and the furnace, set the night before for an 11-hour burnout cycle, is ready. This is a task I still do every time with my own two hands. Some of the items are customer orders, while others are new prototypes of upcoming designs.

10:30 am: Polishing and Process Improvements

At 10:30 am, my polisher walks into my office as we explore a new technique. I love that our atelier buzzes with activity as the filers, setters, and other artisans work meticulously on their craft. The muffled sounds of steam cleaning, hammering, and filing remind me that the heart of our atelier is beating.

11:45 am: Impromptu Team Meeting

At 11:45 am, Mikhael joins me, bringing in some new pieces cut from the earlier casting tree. We discuss the outcome, turning it into a small team meeting. This spontaneous collaboration is essential for refining our processes and ensuring every piece meets our high standards.

1:30 pm: Lunchtime Nap

All of my staff takes a lunch break from 1:30 to 2:30 pm. During this time, I head to my small hidden nap room for a 40-minute nap. I haven’t had breakfast or lunch for over eight years and prefer nourishing my soul instead of my body during lunchtime.

2:30 pm: High-Intensity Run

From 2:30 to 2:35 pm, I change my shoes and do a high-intensity run on my assault runner in my office. I incorporate at least 3 to 4 of these runs throughout the day, ensuring my heart rate goes over 160 bpm each time. Something about blood circulation in the brain helps with filing more patents.

2:35 pm: Quality Checks

I’m big on details, so I personally check every single piece of jewelry before it goes out to my customers. It’s my way of making sure that every piece meets the high standards we’re known for. While doing these checks, I often wear different outfits, wigs, or mustaches—just because I’m a bit of a freak.

3:30 pm: Personalized Notes

With quality checks done, I sit down to write personal notes for every outgoing order. It’s a small touch, but I love doing this. I also record video notes at different steps of the manufacturing process, mentioning the customer’s name to let them know it’s created especially for them. I think it makes a big difference.

5:00 pm: Construction Site Visit (Hush)

Later in the day, I pop over to a construction site for a project that’s still under wraps. Our new atelier location is under construction, promising to be an experience like no other in the jewelry world. Visitors will enter a glass box where they can see how everything is created right before their eyes. I can’t share too much about that yet, but it’s exciting! Think “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” but with jewelry.

7:00 pm: Family Time

After finishing the talk, I surprise my daughters by stopping by in time for their dressage competition practice session. Their surprise and joy make my day, and it’s a heartwarming way to unwind and connect with my family.

8:00 pm: Dinner at Home

At 8:00 pm, it’s dinner at home, and tonight’s dish is Pho soup. I am blessed to have Ann living with us for over 10 years. She makes some of the most authentic international cuisines and has been instrumental in helping my wife and me to do what we do.