Dream On
I am so curious as to what drives other jewelers. What gives you that moxie to endure, despite any challenges known or unknown in the day ahead?
For me, it is the reputation I have nurtured over time to be a proven industry professional in my field. I think one of my biggest assets is the ability to stay focused, organized and inching forward consistently, even when roadblocks have made the going hazardous. I read a business-related article every day, I incorporate a new idea as often as possible and I try not to limit myself or my employees. In the beginning, it was a definite struggle to get out of my comfort zone. I learned that challenges sharpened my skills and increased my toolbox to handle different situations that previously were not in my wheelhouse. What works for you? What makes you better than the next guy, not just service and staff, but what genuinely makes you the best at what you do? — Denise Oros, Linnea Jewelers, La Grange, IL
Just Can’t Get Enough
The Cool Stores article on Marisa Perry Atelier [in the November issue] was fabulous. Well-written, interesting and well-illustrated (could have had a shop photo, if they allowed). I welcome more of those. Only the specialty stores will survive. The “run of the mill” retailers/re-sellers will crush under the weight of internet sales, and those in the end, will fail, too. — Mark Rozanski, Goldart Jewellery Studio, Ottawa, ON
People Are People
The LGBTQ question/refusal of service is a fundamental conundrum that many can’t wrap their brains around. I look at it like this: If a retailer wants to turn away money and alienate an entire population, that is their prerogative. But the flip side is that retailer should be prepared to close their doors sooner than later. If you accept each individual who comes through your door with open arms and an open heart, the rewards are so much greater than feeling righteous. I have made many new friends just looking at people as people … and accepting them exactly as they are! — Jennifer Farnes, Revolution Jewelry Works, Colorado Springs, CO
Everything Counts
The more years I’m in the jewelry business, the more I realize every customer counts. — Eileen Eichhorn, Eichhorn Jewelry, Decatur, IN