David Squires

Editor’s Note: Let’s Think Big

If you truly believe in an idea, move ahead boldly.

Published

9 years ago

March 18, 2015

David Squires Instore April 2015 Issue

THIS YEAR, April is a month to start thinking big.

We’re thinking big with this year’s seventh edition of The SMART Jewelry Show, being held April 18-20 at Chicago’s Navy Pier. Our biggest catch in our speaker lineup? Famed “retail anthropologist” Paco Underhill, author of one of my favorite business books ever, the classic retail manual Why We Buy. I can’t wait to hear what Paco has to tell our SMART Show audience. One guarantee: it’s gonna be big.

One extra big thing to look forward to at The SMART Show is the return of our epic ballroom party Sunday night after the show. Good food, free drinks, and some seriously impressive industry dancing skills, all in one of the prettiest places in Chicago.

In this month’s INSTORE, we’re also thinking big — with a story on 10 of the biggest innovators in the jewelry businesses. Featured are retailer Joanne Teichman, who has built her store Ylang | 23 into one of the best online destinations for fine jewelry; designer Rony Tennenbaum, who is revolutionizing marketing of jewelry to same-sex couples; and jeweler Jim Tuttle, whose custom-design superstore, Green Lake Jewelry Works, keeps growing and growing; plus innovative manufacturers like Ritani and Gabriel & Co. and Shinola, who are earning attention for technological advances and creative marketing.

One common theme among the members of the group? It’s not that they’re always right. It’s that, if they truly believe in an idea, they’re never afraid to be wrong.

So go ahead. Lose your fear. Be bold and always think big!

Wishing you the very best business,

David Squires

one quick question for jewelers

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.”