Colleen Stangeland purchased NEWTW!ST in 2000 (formerly TWIST) after managing the store since 1987. Through her creative vision she has grown our Eugene, OR jewelry and artisan gift boutique into what it is today, a space that celebrates connection and beautiful things handmade with love.

NEWTWIST is what it is today because of your incredible eye for design and unwavering vision of what NEWTWIST stands for: a place for people to connect, to share stories, to celebrate milestones, and to honor those who create and add beauty to this world. Can you tell us a little about how NEWTWIST evolved into what it is today?

Over the past 19 years that I’ve owned NEWTW!ST, every year it has evolved into what it is today with the vision of all the talented members of the NEWTW!ST team. I have this incredible team of people surrounding me and making it the success and vision of what I always dreamed it would be. Every day is a new day to touch the lives of people who come into the store, and every decision I make is with my heart and nothing else, curating the most amazing group of artists that have become friends and family to me.

Favorite stone?

Diamond, my birthstone.

How do you like to spend your weekends?

In the summer, gardening (with my sweet kitties Billie and Betty); year round, hiking the Ridgeline trail.

What’s a home item that you use daily?

Source and Tradition vases for fresh flowers, a Beth Mueller mug for my morning coffee, flatware and dinnerware from the palace collection by Michael Aram, and Tatine soap bar in orange flower; it’s the creamiest, most emollient soap I have ever used.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

In 1980 I was a stand-in for Susan Saint James in How to Beat the High Cost of Living.

What pieces of jewelry do you treasure and hold near and dear to your heart?

My Jamie Joseph pearl and diamond bracelets (birthday presents from my fabulous husband) paired with my Lene Vibe pearl and leather bracelet, and my Love ring by Sydney Evan (one of those things that feels like if I don’t have it on the day’s not complete, because it reminds me that love is love is love is love…thank you Lin Manuel Miranda).

NEWTW!ST neighborhood favorites?

Locally owned businesses like Marché restaurant for locally-sourced, seasonal, french-based cuisine, and Provisions Market Hall for wine, cheese, and fresh pastries (the kouign-amann is amazing). Sabai for Thai food with a Northwest twist, and Novo, a Latin restaurant inspired by Spanish, Mexican, and Peruvian fare; Sundance for fresh produce; and Metropol Bakery for my favorite seeded French bread.

How do you like to unwind?

Hiking, deep breathing, a warm bath with soaking salts and candles, or a glass of Rosé.

What’s on your bookshelf?

I was recently gifted the 50 years of Ralph Lauren for my birthday from my amazing Jodi; the photos are so gorgeous.

Morning routine?

First things first, a decaf cappuccino with Blue Bottle Coffee, The Today Show, and Barre3 or Yoga with Adriene.

Daily handbag essentials?

My Tracey Tanner makeup bag, sunglasses, sunscreen by SkinCeuticals, Rose Day Cream Light by Dr. Hauschka, and lipstick (always Giorgio Armani Ecstasy Lacquer in 300 Tangerine or 402 Red to Go).

What’s the key to being a good host?

Delicious food and drink and a welcoming atmosphere. At my home, we divide and conquer: we rely on my sweet hubby, Brad, as the chef, and I take care of the aesthetic, i.e. display and decorations, like unique serving vessels and tabletop, napkins, and fresh flowers.

Which NEWTWIST jewels are in your jewelry box?

With all the amazing jewelry we carry in the store, I always go back to classic, timeless, easy-to-wear jewelry. I layer necklaces from Lene Vibe, Sarah McGuire, Victoria Cunningham, Erica Molinari, Margaret Solow, Robin Haley, and Dana Kellin, and bracelets from Jamie Joseph and Lene Vibe. My Jude Frances hoops are always on and layered with earrings from TENTHOUSANDTHINGS or Tura Sugden. My ring stacks always include a Jamie Joseph ring and my gold little grey lady ring by Hannah Blount.

Favorite drink?

Domaine Montrose Rosé.

Favorite perfume?

White Shoulders by Evyan. I’ve tried so many others but always keep coming back to this one. It’s what I’ve worn for my entire adult life.

Favorite food?

Mashed potatoes and gravy, and angel hair pasta.

Favorite song?

“The Long and Winding Road” by The Beatles.

Fashion icon?

Audrey Hepburn.

Describe your personal style.

Classic and timeless but I do love a few trends like designer tennis shoes (like these Gucci Ace sneakers) with dresses. I’m a monochromatic or stripe girl in neutral colors like navy, cream, grey, and black.

Explore Colleen’s favorite NEWTWIST jewels here and what inspires her here.

Photos by Shoshanah Haber