A Lasting Legacy With Sarah and Cheryl

A Lasting Legacy With Sarah and Cheryl

This Mother’s Day, SARAH & SEBASTIAN Creative Director, Sarah Munro, and her mother Cheryl Gittoes, reflect on a shared love for the ocean and the traditions that have strengthened their bond.

Growing up on the South Coast of New South Wales, SARAH & SEBASTIAN’s Creative Director, Sarah Munro, has always felt a deep connection to the ocean. Now an avid diver, her underwater excursions continue to serve as inspiration for our jewellery collections—a passion instilled in her by her mother’s own love for the sea.

This Mother's Day, Sarah and Cheryl reflect on a creative legacy shared between generations and how the ocean has shaped their bond in an interview captured by Phoebe Wolfe. Here, they wear timeless pieces inspired by the beauty of marine life, including our Opalus Necklace and Bracelet and pieces from our Diamond Corridor story.

You both share a strong love and connection for the ocean—how has this mutual passion shaped your relationship?

CHERYL: Sarah and I absolutely share a love for the sea. I grew up in Bondi, and the ocean and marine life have always been a huge part of my world. It’s something I wanted my daughters to be comfortable with and always curious about.

SARAH: I spent my childhood on Sydney’s coast, swimming and searching for buried treasures and pipi shells in the sand. My love and curiosity for the ocean came from my mum—she always encouraged us to embrace the water. It's where we've spent most of our time together and where my fondest memories are from.


How has your relationship with your mother shaped who you are today and the legacy you want to leave?

SARAH: My mum used to make beaded earrings by hand and sell them at the local markets. She has always been a creative force in my life, inspiring me to push my own creativity and remain curious. That’s the kind of legacy I want to continue—building something meaningful and inspiring others to do the same.

CHERYL: My mother, Sarah’s grandmother, has always been my constant support and protector. These are qualities that I cherish, and I’ve made it my mission to pass on these same values to my daughters. 

 

My love and curiosity for the ocean came from my mum...it's where we've spent most of our time together.

 

Is there a particular piece of jewellery that reminds you of each other or someone close to you? 

CHERYL: The Gwen Ring, which Sarah named after her Nan. With two interlocking rings and different shaped diamonds on each, it’s a beautiful tribute to my mother—to me, it represents a connection between the three generations. 

SARAH: It would definitely be our matching Tennis Bracelets. We both never take them off, and every time I look at mine, I’m reminded of her—it’s nice to be able to keep her with me everywhere I go.

Sarah wears the Aurelia Earrings, Opalus Necklace, Aurelia Necklace, Opalus Bracelet, Petite Tennis Bracelet and Sunflash Ring. Cheryl wears the Diamond Corridor Earrings and Necklace.

Cheryl, what was the most unexpected or surprising part of becoming a mother? And Sarah, what’s something surprising that you’ve learned about your mum over the years?

CHERYL: The most unexpected yet incredible thing was falling pregnant with Sarah after 11 long years of trying and having a healthy, beautiful baby. She has always been loving, determined and a perfectionist. 

SARAH: My mum is an open book. We tell each other everything, and she’s always so honest with me. But over the years, I’ve also come to realise just how strong and resilient she is. She never lets anything break her spirit. 

“Over the years I’ve also come to realise just how strong and resilient she is. She never lets anything break her spirit.”

Can you recall a small but meaningful moment together that has stayed with you?

SARAH: I love that we’ve had so many opportunities to travel together over the years—discovering new places has always been so special to us. Mum is a great laugh and travel companion, and I love exploring the world with her.

CHERYL: There’s a video we took of Sarah playing when she was three years old—she looks up at the camera and just says “Love you, mum,” and it melted my heart. I’m so glad we caught it on camera, and I love looking back at it every now and then to relive such a beautiful memory. 

What are some words of wisdom that you have shared or received that have stayed with you?

SARAH: My mum has always told me to trust my instincts and stay true to myself. She leads by example—never afraid to take charge, which inspired me to go after anything I wanted to growing up.

CHERYL: I am so proud of everything that she has accomplished. One thing I’ve always encouraged is resilience—setbacks are a part of life, but how you respond to them makes all the difference. I’ve always told Sarah to trust that perseverance will take her wherever she wants to go.

“I call her every Sunday. I can’t go a week without this little ritual. Beyond our mother-daughter relationship, she really is my best friend.”

What’s a tradition or ritual that helps you feel close?

CHERYL: Anytime Sarah and I get to head to the beach together or spend time by the ocean. Sometimes, we go for a quick dip; other days, we catch some sun or have lunch with the salty wind in our hair. I always cherish those days.

SARAH: I call her every Sunday. I can’t go a week without this little ritual. I love it because, even though it’s something so small, it makes me feel connected to her when we’re not together. I just like to hear her voice, check-in and chat about things that have happened during the week. Beyond our mother-daughter relationship, she really is my best friend. 

For all kinds of mothers and mother figures, discover our Mother's Day gift guide here. 

Featured
Opalus Necklace
Opalus Necklace
Aurelia Necklace by Sarah & Sebastian
Aurelia Necklace
Diamond Corridor Necklace by Sarah & Sebastian
Diamond Corridor Necklace

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