In this episode of Bling Talks, Doug Meadows, founder of David Douglas Diamonds and Jewelry, shares his journey as a third-generation jeweler and first-generation retailer. He discusses the family’s deep roots in the jewelry industry, the lessons learned from early business failures, and how he and his brother built a thriving retail operation in Marietta, Georgia. Doug highlights the balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation, from CAD design to lab-grown diamonds. He also explores the impact of AI in jewelry design, business operations, and marketing. With a strong commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices, Doug offers insights on business growth, financial discipline, and community engagement, making this an inspiring conversation for jewelers and entrepreneurs alike.

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Helpful Links:

Website: https://www.jewelrybox.ai

Book a Demo: https://bit.ly/4fiSXMK

Free Trial: https://bit.ly/3UmHe7Y

AI Consultation: https://bit.ly/3Yk7vFd

Bling Talks Podcast: https://bit.ly/4dYJ0TL

Company Website: https://jewelrybox.ai/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Jewelryboxai

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3zCMUuJTRuwUZt4SQYs9Dp?si=b29f86b69ef84245

Amazon bling talks: https://a.co/d/9Wrtj4Z

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jewleryboxai

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jewelrybox-ai

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jewelrybox.ai/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jewelrybox.ai

Join us for an inspiring conversation with John Carter, owner of Jack Lewis Jewelers, as he shares his journey from high school employee to award-winning industry leader. John reflects on receiving the prestigious Robert M. Shipley Award, his path to business ownership, and his deep involvement with the American Gem Society. He discusses the importance of customer experience, mentorship, and adapting to industry changes, including the rise of lab-grown diamonds. Learn how he successfully rebranded a nearly 100-year-old jewelry store, expanded its reach, and built a thriving business that prioritizes relationships over transactions.

Connect with John Carter & Jack Lewis Jewelers

Website: https://www.jacklewisjewelers.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacklewisjewelers/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-carter-8ab5152/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacklewisjewelers

Visit Their Store: 1704 Eastland Dr #1 | Bloomington, IL 61704 | Eastland Square Shopping Center

Thank you for joining us this week!

👉 Ready to upgrade your social media game? Try JewelryBox.AI to streamline your content creation and boost engagement today!

Helpful Links:

Website: https://www.jewelrybox.ai

Book a Demo: https://bit.ly/4fiSXMK

Free Trial: https://bit.ly/3UmHe7Y

AI Consultation: https://bit.ly/3Yk7vFd

Bling Talks Podcast: https://bit.ly/4dYJ0TL

Company Website: https://jewelrybox.ai/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Jewelryboxai

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3zCMUuJTRuwUZt4SQYs9Dp?si=b29f86b69ef84245

Amazon bling talks: https://a.co/d/9Wrtj4Z

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jewleryboxai

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jewelrybox-ai

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jewelrybox.ai/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jewelrybox.ai

Episode Summary:

• Introduction and Background: Anthony Haddad introduces Eric Stevens, founder and CEO of Stevens Diamond Jewelers in West Springfield, Massachusetts, discussing the family's long-standing jewelry business.
• Journey in the Jewelry Business: Eric shares his journey as a third-generation jeweler, starting from helping in his father's store as a child to opening his own store in 1997.
• Transition to Owning a Standalone Business: Eric talks about moving from a rented space to owning a 4,000 square foot standalone building, emphasizing the benefits of having a dedicated store.
• Business Operations and Inventory: Discusses the impact of COVID-19 on their operations, their focus on custom engagement rings, and the inclusion of lab-grown diamonds.
• Customer Engagement and Custom Design: Highlights the importance of personalized customer service and the growing trend of custom-designed jewelry using customer-supplied inspirations from social media.
• Embracing AI and Future Growth: Eric shares his plans to embrace AI for enhancing customer experience and marketing, acknowledging the need to adapt to technological advancements.
• Community Involvement and Events: Discusses the importance of community involvement, participation in local charities, and organizing in-store events to engage customers and support local causes.
• Advice for Other Jewelers: Emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, adapting to new technologies, and collaborating with peers to improve business operations.

Links And Resources: Stevens Diamond Jewelers website: stevensjewelers.com

Thank you for joining us this week!

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and other social platforms to stay ahead of the competition.

Visit us at Jewelrybox.ai for a free trial and a free demo to witness the future of AI in the jewelry industry.

Episode Summary:

• Introduction and Background: Anthony Haddad introduces Lilian Raji, President of Lilian Raji Agency, and discusses her background and the services her agency provides.
• Lilian's Journey in Marketing: Lilian shares her journey into the marketing industry, starting from her early experiences and leading to the establishment of her own agency.
• Agency Services and Specializations: Lilian describes the specialized services her agency offers, including PR, marketing strategy, and brand management, particularly in the luxury and jewelry sectors.
• Marketing Strategies for Jewelry Brands: Discusses effective marketing strategies tailored for jewelry brands, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and building a strong brand identity.
• Challenges in the Marketing Industry: Lilian talks about the common challenges faced by marketers, especially in the luxury goods sector, and how to navigate them.
• Importance of PR in Marketing: Highlights the role of public relations in marketing, sharing insights on how to leverage PR to enhance brand visibility and reputation.
• Digital Marketing and Social Media: Lilian provides tips on utilizing digital marketing and social media to reach target audiences, including content creation and engagement strategies.
• Advice for Aspiring Marketers: Offers valuable advice for those looking to enter the marketing field, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adaptability.

Links And Resources:

• Lilian Raji on LinkedIn
• Visit Lilian Raji Agency at lillianraji.com

Thank you for joining us this week!

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and other social platforms to stay ahead of the competition.

Visit us at Jewelrybox.ai for a free trial and a free demo to witness the future of AI in the jewelry industry.

Episode Summary:

• Journey to Metalworking Artist: Vivienne Varay shares her path from photography and design to metalworking, leading to a Master of Fine Arts in jewelry from the University of Georgia.
• Sales Experience and Partnerships: Vivienne discusses her sales role with a company partnered with major retailers, focusing on customer engagement and sales analysis.
• Career Journey and Transition: Her career spans roles at Macy's, Nordstrom, and more, leading to her current position as a lecturer at Washington State University.
• Teaching Experiences and Courses: Vivienne teaches social media and 3D digital animation, sharing insights on incorporating AI into her curriculum.
• Comparing Corporations and Small Businesses: Insights on managing large vs. small businesses, emphasizing tailored processes and training for success.
• Sales Journey and Engagement Strategies: Highlights the importance of understanding products and customers, and engaging effectively through social media.
• Communication and Design Tools: Discusses using Adobe suite and other tools for inclusive learning and business communication.
• AI Journey and Legal Concerns: Explores the evolving role of AI in teaching and its potential legal challenges, emphasizing the need for quality data input.
• AI's Impact on Animation and Sora Feature: Talks about AI's transformative potential in animation and introduces the Sora feature for creating movie-style videos.
• Tips for Success and AI Training: Offers advice on staying open to learning and change, and highlights AI training resources for business success.

Links And Resources:

• Instagram: @viviennevaray

Thank you for joining us this week!

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and other social platforms to stay ahead of the competition.

Visit us at Jewelrybox.ai for a free trial and a free demo to witness the future of AI in the jewelry industry.

In this episode of "Bling Talks," Anthony Haddad delves into the innovative realm of diamond ownership with Louis Valentine, the visionary founder of Diamond Power and the Virgin Diamond Brand. The discussion unfolds Louis's journey from co-founding Gem Find in 1999, revolutionizing the jewelry industry with internet integration, to his latest venture, Diamond Power. Louis shares insights into the challenges of introducing technology to the traditionally conservative industry and unveils the unique credit card concept dedicated to natural diamonds. The episode explores the Virgin Diamond Brand, emphasizing provenance and exclusivity, and discusses the validation process for the Diamond Power card, which acts as an NFT-like proof of ownership. Louis envisions collaborations with high-end retailers and auction houses, offering rare diamonds directly to consumers. Details on the Diamond Power card, its pricing structure, and upcoming ventures underscore the evolution of diamond ownership and the transformative impact of technology on the jewelry industry.

Links And Resources:

• Louis Valentine on LinkedIn

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In this captivating episode of "Bling Talks," host Anthony Haddad delves into the remarkable journey of David Nygaard, the founder and CEO of David Nygaard Fine Jewelers. From facing the challenges of the 2008 banking crisis to embracing the power of just-in-time manufacturing and virtual inventory, David shares his insights on adapting to changes and finding the silver lining in every situation. Learn how he combines personal engagement with modern technology to create beautiful, custom-designed jewelry. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that sheds light on resilience, creativity, and the art of custom jewelry.

Links And Resources:

• David Nygaard Fine Jewelers
• David Nygaard on LinkedIn

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Welcome to another captivating episode of "Bling Talks" with your host, Anthony Haddad. In this episode, we have a special guest, Bob Donofrio, the CEO and founder of Futura Jewelry. Bob shares his incredible journey from the world of luxury jewelry to becoming a champion for sustainability in the industry. He sheds light on the alarming issue of mercury in gold mining and how it impacts our planet and health. Discover how Futura Jewelry is leading the charge for change, offering consumers a sustainable and ethical choice. Bob's passion and mission to educate and make a difference are truly inspiring. Tune in to learn how you can be part of the solution and take your first steps toward a cleaner, greener jewelry industry.

Links And Resources:

• Futura Jewelry
• Bob Donofrio on LinkedIn

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Join 'Bling Talks' as host Anthony Haddad explores the incredible journey of Katie Pham, CEO of Mountain Jade. Starting as a basement startup, Katie's jewelry business has grown into a hub of well-being and spirituality, fueled by her deep connection to gemstones, especially following the loss of her younger brother. Beyond gemstone products, Katie's mission promotes authenticity, kindness, wisdom, compassion, and courage in both business and life. Discover how Mountain Jade transcends traditional jewelry, serving as a transformational healing studio for customers. This episode delivers profound insights and practical advice for entrepreneurs, especially those in the jewelry sector, and showcases Katie's fervor for love, authentic relationships, and turning adversity into purpose. Join the conversation about making a positive impact through business and meaningful human connections.

Links And Resources:

• MOUNTAIN JADE

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Join host Anthony Haddad in this captivating episode of Bling Talks as he sits down with Glenn Lehrer, the CEO and founder of Lehrer Designs. Glenn takes us on his remarkable journey from a college dropout to becoming a celebrated gemstone artist and jewelry designer. He shares the pivotal moment when his passion for gemstones was ignited by holding a quartz crystal, leading him to self-taught gem cutting and carving. Glenn's story is one of resilience and embracing new opportunities, even during the challenges of the 2008 retail downturn. Today, his work shines on QVC, and he continues to inspire through innovation and determination. Tune in to discover the power of following your passion and taking risks.

Links And Resources:

• Lehrer Designs Inc.
• Glenn Lehrer on LinkedIn

Thank you for joining us this week! Are you interested in subscribing to Bling Talks? We would love to hear your feedback! Connect with us on Spotify and leave us a review.