As we watch all the fun this week leading up to our big Red Carpet Event on Friday in Los Angeles - it really makes me miss one of the biggest and brightest personalities that we shared this special moment with - Barry Ort from Kenneth Jay Lane. This was an event that Barry always had something spectacular from Kenneth Jay Lane to share with us. Barry was the VP of Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry.
For those of you who weren't aware - Barry passed away unexpectedly at the end of December. It shocked and saddened us all.
This is something that I've wanted to write since last month - but just couldn't accept the fact that Barry is gone. It doesn't seem real. Many of us at work have said that to one another many times. I think we're all still in a state of denial.
I found out about Barry's passing the day after it happened. I found out when I had arrived in NYC with my family - and I was about to call him to plan a visit that day.
Normally at this time of the year - I'm chatting with Barry about what the celebrities will be wearing on the Red Carpet and what beautiful jewelry designs Kenneth Jay Lane had designed for our Red Carpet Event.
He was a man that I trusted with anything and everything. He was full of compliments as well as "education" when it came to my fashion choices! I knew he'd tell me the truth - so I would ask for his opinion on so many things! Now that's a friend!
When I was pregnant with Theresa in 2006 - I made a trip to NYC to spend the day with Barry and Kenneth Jay Lane. I hadn't told anyone I was pregnant yet - it was still too early. So after a wonderful time in Kenneth's design studio we all went to lunch together. Kenneth is a gentleman who likes to order for his guests. It just so happens that early in my pregnancy I developed a horrible aversion to any type of beef - and guess what Kenneth ordered? You guessed it - beef! Then he ordered a special bottle of wine! I'm thinking in my head - what do I do?
Luckily, Kenneth saw someone he knew and excused himself from the table for a moment. I quickly whisper to Barry - "Help me! I can't eat or drink any of this - I'm pregnant! I'm afraid to offend Kenneth after he was so gracious to order such a lovely lunch - but if I see or smell beef - I may get sick!" Barry said "Mazel Tov! I've got you covered, don't worry."
As Kenneth came back, Barry told him "Kenneth, would it be ok to order something light for Jacque? She's getting over something and she didn't want to offend you." Kenneth said "Absolutely!". Barry gave me a wink. About a month later I told Kenneth the truth that I was actually pregnant and he was so sweet and congratulated me and my husband!
I had a wonderful time in NYC a few years ago with Barry as we planned a Kenneth Jay Lane Show centered around the beautiful Elizabeth Taylor. We went to a wonderful exhibit that featured not only her amazing jewelry, but clothing, artwork and personal items. 
The following week we had an amazing show on QVC with jewelry inspired by Elizabeth from Kenneth Jay Lane. Of course I wore a purple gown - and even got violet contacts to match the stunning Ms. Taylor!
Every time I see the Red Carpet - I will remember my friend Barry. I know he was special to so many of us at QVC and to many of you! Barry was a great friend - and a person who always did what he could to help others. He is truly missed.
So with the Red Carpet event this Friday - I salute my friend Barry - who I know will be watching over every sparking detail!
Best wishes and blessings,
Jacque
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