That's Life

Borsheims Ike-It Award Winner Embraces Kindness

Senior buyer’s assistant shares her daily inspirations.

Published

3 years ago

May 1, 2023

INSTORE Staff Instore May 2023 Issue

Borsheims Ike-It Award Winner Embraces Kindness

Wendy Johnson, senior buyer’s assistant for Borsheims, has been selected by her colleagues as the winner of the company’s prestigious Ike-It Award, named for Ike Friedman, who owned the company from 1947 to 1989. Johnson, who grew up on a farm outside of Albion, NE, earned a bachelor of science degree in apparel marketing from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. She began working at Borsheims in Omaha, NE, in 2007 and was promoted in 2019. “Our staff is grateful for her positive attitude and tremendous work ethic,” said Borsheims CEO and president Karen Goracke. Johnson lives with her husband Matt and sons Andrew, Aaron and Nathan, who all love soccer. “If I’m not working, I’m at one of their sporting events,” she says. “I like to walk a lot, hike, travel with my family, I just love being outside.”

Closing With Confidence: How Bailey's Fine Jewelry Achieved Outstanding Results With Wilkerson

When Trey Bailey, President and CEO of Bailey's Fine Jewelry, decided to close the Crabtree location in Raleigh, North Carolina after 15 years, he knew the decision needed to be handled with intention and professionalism. The goal was clear: exit the location while maintaining financial strength and honoring the store's legacy. Having worked with Wilkerson successfully in the past, Bailey understood the value of their comprehensive approach. "They understood both the emotional and financial sides of the store closing sale," Trey explains. "Their reputation for professionalism, results and care made it a very easy decision." The results exceeded expectations. Wilkerson helped Bailey's sell through significant inventory while maintaining the dignity of the closing process. "They don't just run a sale, they help close a chapter in the best way possible," Bailey says, strongly recommending Wilkerson to any jeweler facing a similar transition.