Press Releases

ENJI Studio Jewelry Wins 2016 Halstead Grant

Published

8 years ago

September 29, 2016

INSTORE Staff

(Press Release)
PRESCOTT, AZ — ENJI Studio Jewelry owner Niki Grandics of San Diego, CA, is the recipient of the 11th Annual Halstead Grant recognizing jewelry design excellence and business strategy acumen amongst enterprising new jewelers.

Grandics wins $7,500 in cash, $1,000 in supplies, a trip to Prescott, AZ, a signature Grant Finalist trophy made by 2013 winner Rebecca Rose and a cover and feature spread in the new annual grant publication Reveal. That’s in addition to a feature profile and jewelry showcase in the next printed catalog, a blog and video profile, press release assistance and a feedback report from the judging committee.

Grandics trained at San Diego State University and GIA and was a finalist in last year’s Halstead Grant competition.

Halstead President Hilary Halstead Scott said, “Niki took the dream route to prepare for life as a studio artist. She has a marketing education, a metals degree and a GIA Graduate Jeweler certification. She has all the right tools plus a distinct gift for design.”

Grandics said, “It was so helpful just to set aside the time to think about the direction of my business and all of the steps it will take to actually make that happen. That’s definitely something I’ll do going forward.”

Grandics is a member of Ethical Metalsmiths.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”