Kendra Scott Jewelry invited me to attend its watch party celebrating owner Kendra Scott’s debut as co-host on CNBC’s new show, “Crowd Rules,” Tuesday evening. Although mounds of swag bags, canapés and dazzling accessories made for a memorable event, Kendra’s strong determination, success and personality shone brighter than any one of the jewels seen throughout the evening. I mean, she flew to New York that morning to appear on the “Today” show, returned to Austin, changed in the airport, and drove straight to the venue to celebrate with her Austin family, friends and customers. She looked flawless, too, and we all know what airplanes can do to our hair…clearly, Kendra’s exempt. Those gems must hold some secret powers!

A fanciful pirate who fancies jewels, jewels and more jewels would have shivered their timbers if he, or she, secured an invitation to the extravaganza last night at Star Bar on 6th Street. Resplendent, riveting, refined – I can’t think of any other ways to describe Kendra, her jewelry and the event she hosted.

You see, Kendra, one of Texas’s top jewelry designers, now serves as co-host for “Crowd Rules.” Aired on CNBC Tuesday nights 9/8 p.m. central, the national hour-long spectacle provides one of three small businesses $50,000 to advance their work in this tough economy. As an entrepreneur and business owner herself, the producers thought Kendra fit the role as co-host perfectly.

So, the night was dedicated to watching the premiere and celebrating one of Austin’s own fashion trailblazer’s achievement. Perhaps one of the most stimulating aspects was that Kendra presented products from each of the three small businesses competing on the episode to those of us in attendance. Yes, Kendra had pickles, hot sauce and green tea ice cream sent to Austin so we could test the food on our own tongues while the program played. It was as if we were on the show, too! Check out photos I took at the fete, and see what Kendra had to say when I interviewed her!

Austin is my home base – I’m so thankful we have nonstop flights to cities like Los Angeles and New York, which makes it possible. I can fly up to New York, do TV interviews, and fly back and be at my premier party tonight. All I can say is thank goodness for United today and no delays!

Today I’m wearing our new summer collection, which is my Bali-inspired line. I went to Bali last summer and got lots of inspiration while there. Some pieces I’m wearing tonight have this intricate filigree, that kind of looks like some of the archways and architecture that I saw there, and this vibrant turquoise. I love turquoise! And I just threw everything together, and changed in the airport bathroom before arriving!

I wanted to celebrate here in Austin. I think it’s so exciting that we’re a fashion brand out of this city. I have so many great supporters and people who stood by me for so many years, believed in me while growing this business, and it’s as much a celebration to them as to the show premiering tonight. They gave me the opportunity to do this show and it’s an honor. I want to thank my community and the best way to do that was having a party here in Austin.

I’m hoping it’s going to be well-received. So far, we’ve had great reviews. The New York Post gave a great review and they’re tough. I’m excited for the future and I hope this is just the beginning of a show that’ll last  for a while and that I can continue being a part of it!

Kendra Scott being interviewed by YNN before the TV premiere of “Crowd Rules.”

Gorgeous!

Look at all the people at Star Bar enjoying cocktails, appetizers and each other’s company. This was before the event even officially began!

Cake balls from…Cake Ball. The red velvet ones were divine…so moist and so worth the calories.

How much cuter could M&M’s be? Check out the Kendra Scott design on them!

A pork slider served as an appetizer.

Aromatic florals and Kendra Scott koozies….a match made in heaven?

Look who’s on TV!

Guests rushed to sample the green tea ice cream…it tasted quite nice.

Guests standing, conversing and watching the show.

One of the servers posed for a shot holding the hot sauce…it tasted a little too spicy for my personal taste!

Chip and hot sauce…I couldn’t tell if the fire itself was hotter (;

The Mr. Green Tea ice cream.

Smizing with my lovely and dear friend, Kylee, who accompanied me at the event.

Of course the food pleased our palates, but when the servers appeared with complimentary Kendra Scott jewelry, a fashion frenzy ensued! I think my mother would appreciate the goldstone bracelet – it somewhat resembles burnt orange, the University of Texas’s official colors. Thanks, Kendra!

Thanks again for the superb party, decadent food and accessories, and contributing to Austin’s reputation as one of the best cities for local businesses. Hats off – no, jewelry off – to you!

Make sure to check out Kendra Scott’s boutique on South Congress or online to sift through some tastefully attention-grabbing accessories, and be sure to watch Kendra on “Crowd Rules” every Tuesday on CNBC 9/8 p.m. central.

Yours truly,

Jonathan