Behind The Counter

May 5, 2008 | Link This | Email this | Comments (0)

So, this is one of the first times I’ve ever been so nervous to buy. Recession…recovery…recession…recovery. That’s all that runs through my head these days. Should I just replenish and not put any money into other lines? Usually, the JCK show is where I deviate from the norm. I try and find a new bridal or fashion line that I think will stay around or I hunt for another out of country manufacturer that brings a great product as well as great margins to the table. I know the store needs some more bridal but am I ready to invest. Is this year going to be good to me? Are any of you feeling the same?

April 30, 2008 | Link This | Email this | Comments (4)

I absolutely love blogging for JCK magazine. The biggest advantage for me is that so many of you participate. I’ve grown up in the business and realized the industry has changed. It’s not like mom and dads in any way. I don’t do my accounting by hand, each employee has their own email address, punching in is digital, and the customer’s come in armed with knowledge from the internet (this is one of those changes that sometimes hurts more than it helps). I know my mom and dads way of doing things—but unfortunately I had to tweak and fine tune things to fit the modern age. Many of my ways are more cost effective and efficient but sometimes I just can’t help doing things the old-school way (mom and dads way). Many things, I’m learning as I go and I have so many questions regarding how others do it better. I want to do it better! I just wanted to thank you all for participating and commenting. Your comments have helped me grow.

April 29, 2008 | Link This | Email this | Comments (6)

Lately, I’ve been getting numerous requests for hand engraving on goblets, glassware, and other gifts that I wonder if it’s worth looking into. Customers are obviously buying it somewhere. Of course…I’d rather put my money into more loose diamonds but I can’t help to wonder if my competitors are doing well selling items like Lalique, Lladro, and Armani Collectibles? Have you branched out? Do you find it to be lucrative or wished you had put your money elsewhere?

April 26, 2008 | Link This | Email this | Comments (6)

April 23, 2008 | Link This | Email this | Comments (3)

I do think employees should be paid while at a company training (Or do you not?)—but do you pay their wage if you are sending them out of state. If employees are sent to a training seminar out of state—you pay airfare, hotel, for the training itself—but do you pay them their wage while their away too?