Editor’s Note: Trace Shelton’s Nothing Short of Super

Published

9 years ago

November 18, 2014

Trace Shelton

Retail champions prove that with great power comes great jewelry

BY TRACE SHELTON

When I was a kid, I fell in love with superheroes. Spider-Man, Iron Man, Green Lantern, The Flash. No problem was too big for them. And they didn’t just use their super powers; they had to use their wits as well. They were smart, they were brightly-colored, and they weren’t afraid of anything.

Today, I still love superheroes (just ask my wife about my collection of super-themed T-shirts), but I have a new group of heroes to admire: Jewelers. Who else can accessorize a particular outfit, face shape or complexion with the perfect piece? Who else can explain the mysteries of diamonds, gemstones and watches? More important, who else can help me get out of the doghouse?

So when our crack team of super editors suggested we do a story on “jewelry super powers” for this issue, I jumped at the chance to write it. After all, when else will I be able to write phrases like “mere mortal,” “evil’s greatest weapon,” and “Flash CAD Man to the rescue”?

As I dove into my research for the story, what I found was that you, our readers, are even more sensationally-powered than I realized. From on-call jewelry delivery, to unfathomable jewelry-making skills, to virtual mind-reading of your clients, you make jewelry retailing look way easier than it is.

I believe you’ll see a little bit of yourself in each of our 12 featured “jewelry superheroes.” I hope you enjoy it. And now I leave you to continue your fight for truth, justice, and beautiful jewelry for all!

Wishing you the very best business,

This article originally appeared in the December 2014 edition of INSTORE.

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.”