It’s a Family Affair

It’s definitely a family affair here in our shop on Marco. In addition to it being our fourth generation in the jewelry business, we also have two and three generations that shop here. My father, Richard Alan, relocated our jewelry business, The Harbor Goldsmith, from Beverly, Massachusetts, in September of 1994. Dad’s average customer age thirty-two years ago was 65+ then…today those original customers would be in their late 90s or older. Over the years, an amazing thing happened. The grandparents brought in their kids, who then, twenty years later, brought in their kids, who also became customers. It’s always a proud moment for me when someone shows me a piece of jewelry my father made for them or their family member decades ago. It’s a special kind of legacy. Being responsible for the future family heirlooms is something we take seriously. I learned from my father that quality will stand the test of time.

Since the New Year, our shop has processed over 600 repairs and nearly 50 custom items have been designed and completed to the delight of my loyal clientele. Colored stones, lab diamonds, and natural diamonds continue to sell. It is a busy little shop and we owe it all to you. My customer base has expanded to include all generations. Not a day goes by that I don’t hear “my mother used to love this store!”

The love for jewelry starts young. I love it when people stroll by holding their little daughters’ hand. The young one will stop dead in her tracks and point in the store, “Dad, JEWELRY! Ooh, can we go in?” Dad usually drags her away with protest. This scenario has played out more times than I can count. Gentlemen, pay attention! Women love jewelry and it’s hard to go wrong with diamonds and gold. We love being complimented on our jewelry, and it makes us proud to tell people that the man we love picked it out for us. It makes you look good and we feel special. I know it can be intimidating walking into a jewelry store, but the ladies up front are here to help and will never push you to buy something we don’t think you or your special lady will love.

It’s the end of an era at the Harbor Goldsmith. I’m sad to say that after 26 years of loyal service, Annette will be officially retiring on May 1. To say we are sad to see her go doesn’t even come close. She never planned to stay this long; we have loved every minute and will miss the laughs. Thank you, Annette, there will always be a place for you at The Harbor Goldsmith, should retirement not suit you!

Don’t worry, though. Dad’s still kicking around, showing up on occasion to help out. He’s definitely not here in earnest anymore but is available to me for expert consultations. I definitely miss his daily presence, but this is the way things go. The patriarchs step aside and relinquish some control for the new generations to step up and adapt to the changing industry. Occasionally, he will proofread one of my articles where I talk about his impending retirement. He will make a change to it and admonish me, “You make me sound dead! I’m not dead yet!” I don’t want to start any rumors; he’s still alive and well, just not punching the clock anymore, so to speak. I don’t blame him; it’s a hectic place! Between watch batteries, the retail sales, repairs, and custom work, there is hardly a dull moment. We’ve experienced a tremendous year of growth and look forward to many more seasons of business. We will continue to welcome snowbirds, locals, and tourists alike from all generations. Thank you for thinking of us when a special occasion calls for a thoughtful gift.