Diamonds might be a girl’s best friend, but when it comes to blending sparkles with a sense of purpose, Tracy Abate’s Touchstone Crystal shines the brightest. Abate's journey with Touchstone Crystal a Swarovski Company reveals how a passion for jewelry can also illuminate pathways to giving back.
Abate's involvement in both local and business communities has profoundly shaped her approach to running Touchstone Crystal. “Having a business allows me to highlight needy organizations and give back through what I like to call sparkling fundraisers,” Abate explains. “I always want to give a shout-out to my hostesses, customers, and those who refer me because my ability to give back relies on the growth and success of my business.”
Balancing work and life is no small feat, especially when you’re dedicated to spreading sparkle. For Abate, finding joy outside of work is essential. “My husband and I are empty nesters now, so we treasure date nights and cooking Italian dishes together,” she shares. “Sundays in the fall are reserved for football, and we make time for game nights with our family. It’s all about making time for what makes us happy and staying connected with loved ones.”
Running a small business comes with its own set of challenges. “Not everyone respects direct sales businesses,” Abate notes. “But I’ve embraced the flexibility of working in-person, virtually, and in a hybrid model. This flexibility allows me to offer a more personalized experience and exceptional customer service.”
Abate's leap into the world of Touchstone Crystal began in 2017, driven by a desire to fill personal voids with something positive. “I was an empty nester and had recently lost loved ones, including my pup of 13 years,” Abate reflects. “Starting Touchstone Crystal was an easy decision. I loved the jewelry, loved socializing, and appreciated that it was backed by Swarovski—a name synonymous with quality.”
Looking ahead, Abate is brimming with aspirations. “I’m passionate about growing my business and connecting with new customers and team members,” she says. “One of my big dreams is to earn a Mediterranean cruise to Spain and Italy and share it with my husband. It’s all about celebrating achievements and creating new memories.”
Abate's personal interests, from her love for football to her Italian cooking, deeply influence her business decisions. “I’m just like many of the people I meet through my business,” she notes. “By sharing my personal and professional journey openly, I build connections and trust with my clients.”
Her involvement with Bravenly Global and her local gym, Curves, has also contributed to her personal growth. “After my hip replacement surgery, I needed a way to get back on track physically and emotionally,” Abate explains. “Bravenly products and regular exercise have helped me feel great and continue to shine while sharing Touchstone Crystal.”
Networking and charity work have also been pivotal in Abate's professional journey. “Networking is crucial for business growth,” she says. “It’s about learning from others and finding organizations that align with my values. My work with BW NICE and other charities allows me to give back and support meaningful causes.”
Abate's sparkle fundraisers have been a cornerstone of her business model. “I love doing sparkle fundraisers,” she says. “They benefit organizations like cheer and dance teams, school sports, and families in need. One cause close to my heart is Dance for the Cure, which supports those facing breast cancer. Every fundraiser helps us give back, and it’s rewarding to see the impact we can make.”
In Abate's world, jewelry isn’t just about adornment—it’s about making a difference. By combining her love for sparkle with a commitment to community, she truly embodies the spirit of giving back.
For more information on Touchstone Crystal a Swarovski Company visit www.touchstonecrystal.com/sites/tracyabate.
“By sharing my personal and professional journey openly, I build connections and trust with my clients.” - Tracy Abate