RJO Next Gen Attendee Introductions

JASON BAIDE

GEMGALLERY

BOZEMAN,MT

Born and raised in Bozeman, I spent much of my childhood around the Gem Gallery. From a young age, I took an interest in the jewelry making process. My constant curiosity led me to learn from the experienced in-store goldsmiths and myfather,DonBaide.

A 2018 graduate from MSU, I studied studio arts and business. I have also attended New Approach Jewelry School in Tennessee and CADCAM training in Toronto, CA I work primarily as a custom designer and enjoy utilizing traditional as well as innovative design processes ranging from hand sketching to CAD design and 3D printing I’m excited to continue the Gem Gallery’s traditionofcraftsmanshipandquality

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

Idon'tdokaraoke:)

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Themountains

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

IplayviolinintheBozemanSymphony,volunteeron severalnon-profitboards,vintageswingdance,and doceramics

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Invisibility

CONTACTME:

jason@gemgallery.com

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

CURRENT POSITION:

10

Owner

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

Processimprovementstomakeourjobseasierand clientexperiencesbetter Mydesignandgoldsmithingabilitieshave beenrecognizedwithmultipleawards including:

SaulBellInternationalJewelryAwardfor

EmergingArtistin2016and2017

ProfessionalArtObjectin2018. RJONextGenAdvisoryBoardMember

PAIGE BAUER

WICKERSHAMJEWELRY

MARSHFIELDWI

Iam20yearsold,Icoachhockey,andamrecentlyengaged

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

Waffles/Pancakes

CURRENT POSITION:

StoreManager

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

SinceYouBeenGone-KellyClarkson

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Utah

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

MyGrandparents,theystrivetodothebestfor everyonearoundthemandIwouldliketodothe same

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

ZionNationalParkinUtahandIcan'twaituntilIget thechancetogotoGlacierNationalPark

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Invisibility,toscarepeople

2years Seeing/helpingmyco-workerssucceed,Allthe knowledge.

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

MasterSeedBeading

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Readingandcoachinghockeyinthewinter

CONTACTME: (715)507-1052, Facebook:PaigeBauer

LIZ CHAMBERLAND

GEORGETOWNJEWELERS

WOODDALE,IL

Igrewupinmyfamily'sretailjewelrystorethatwasfoundedin1950bymygrandparents I started college at Indiana University with taking over the family business as my long-term path. I majoredinEntrepreneurship&CorporateInnovationwithaminorinRetailMerchandising Duringmy four years at school, I took the opportunity to experience other jewelry retailers and worked at Zales andanotherindependentlyownedjewelrystore,WilliamsJewelry

Upon graduation, I spent almost four years working for The Bon-Ton Stores, a regional department store with over 250 stores, in various positions within their corporate buying offices My experiences with Bon-Ton gave me a greater understanding of retail concepts on a larger scale During collegeandduringmycorporatecareer,IcontinuedtotraveltoshowswithmyDadandstartingjoininghimonhisAntwerpbuyingtrips

In 2016, I moved back to the Chicagoland area to run the store with the guidance of my Dad I have been running all the day to day and managerial aspectsformanyyearsandweofficiallystartedourownershiptransitionin2022

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE?

Allyoucaneatsushi

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

UptownGirlbyBillyJoel

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Antwerp!Oranycitythatdoesn'tspeakEnglish

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

MyGrandmaChamberland-shewasacaringandhardworkingwomanwhoselifewasfullofthingsthatwere atypicalofwomenofhertime.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Heli-skiing

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Theabilitytobeintwoplacesatonce

CONTACTME:

Phone:847-702-0353

Email: lizgj351@gmailcom FacebookorInstagram

CURRENT POSITION:

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

Seven(7)yearsfulltime

16yearspart-timethroughhighschool/college/first post-graduatejob

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Buildingrelationshipswithourclients,theproduct,leadinga successfulteam Thateverydayisdifferent Consistent opportunitytoimprove.

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Refinemyskillsinrecruitingandmaintainingastrongteam; strategiestokeepstrongteammembersmotivated,and feelingfulfilledintheircareerwithourstore

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

IamworkingtowardsmyGG;Iwanttotraveltoevery continent!

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Spendingtimewithfriendsandfamily,beingoutside, anythingactive

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

GIADiamondGraduate, RJONextGenAdvisoryBoardMember

Co-owner

PAIGE CURTIS

WICKERSHAMJEWELRY

ROTHSCHILD,WI

I am easy going, overly optimistic and enjoy helping others I love to laugh and have a good time I have worked in retail management for about 16 years and jewelryfor10.Ihavebeenmarriedforsevenyearsandhavethesweetestsonwho will turn five in November. We have a white lab and recently built and moved intoournewhouse!

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE?

Pumpkinpie,pumpkinpiepop-tarts 10years

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? IlovekaraokebutIwouldhavetosayFriends inLowPlacesbyGarthBrooks

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

LaJollaCoveorColorado

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY? Mymom,shehasperseveranceandisincredibly generousandkind.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Maybeextremeparasailing whichIdonotrecommendLOL

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Iwouldchooseenergy/mindmanipulationwhichis multi-facetedandwouldgivememultipledifferent superiorabilities OnasmallscaleIwoulduseitto calmdownupsetcustomersandmakepeoplefeel better,onalargescaleIwoulduseittomakethe worldabetterplaceandhealpeople'spain

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

CURRENT POSITION:

GeneralManager

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Helpingothersandseeingthemgrowintheirpositions andthecompany

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Overallleadershiptechniquesandholdingothers accountable

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME?

Ihavealwayswantedtolearnhowtoplaythepianoor violin GoalIamworkingtowardsisbecomingagraduate gemologistfromGIA.

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Ienjoyspendingtimewithmyfamilyandfriendsand enjoyvacationingandtraveling Ienjoywatching footballinthefallandplayingfantasyfootball Iam passionateabouttravelingwithmyfamilytomore places,othercountriesandlearningmoreabout othercultures Ialsolovebeingamom!

KATHERINE DAHLKEMPER

DAHLKEMPER’SJEWELRYCONNECTION

Iamathird-generationjeweler(notbenchjeweler) IrecentlyacquiredmyDad’sportion of stock in our company and as of Oct 1st, I am a co-owner with my mom I recently married my husband, June of this year, and have a beautiful stepdaughter I grew up in my parents' jewelry store & currently handle all aspects of our business, along with our amazingstaff!

ABOUTME:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE?

IhaveCeliacDiseasesomyrelationshipwithfoodhasalwaysbeena littledifficult-althoughovertheyearsGlutenFreeisreadilymore available.Myfavoriteguiltypleasureischips&diporcrackerswith cheeseandpepperoni-Iloveeeeeagoodcharcuterieboard!

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Sofar,IabsolutelylovethebeachofMarcoIsland,butaslongasIam somewherewarmerandsunny,Iamhappy!Idon’tknowthatI’vegone toenoughplacestohaveafavoritespot.Ihavetraveledtomany differentplacessuchasGreece,Europe,Brazil,Iceland,butthosearen’t frequentvacationspotsforme.IwouldsayanywhereinFloridaisa favorite!

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Themostinfluentialpersoninmylifehasbeenandcurrentlyismy mom.Shehasinfluencedalotinmylife,eversinceIwasborn,andshe hashelpedguideanddevelopmeintothepersonIamtoday.Froma businessaspect,KatePetersonwasasignificantlyinfluentialpersonin mylife,butIdidn’thavetheluxuryoftimewithKate,justafewquick years.BreneBrownisalsoaveryinfluentialpersontome.Ihavenever metherpersonallybutthroughherseminarsandbookssheoffersa therapeuticoutlookonlifeandarealisticperspectiveonsetting boundariesandlettinggoofshame.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

ThemostadventurousthingI’veeverdonewasIwentskydivingin BrazilwhenIwasstudyingabroad!

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Mysuperpowerwouldbetobeahealerfromemotional&physical pain,andsickness.Iwouldhelptakeawayemotionalandphysical painwhetheritbesadnessandgrieffromdeath,sicknesssuchas cancerorAlzheimer’s,etc.

CONTACTME:

Email:kkd6845@gmail.com

Facebook:KatherineDahlkemper-Yezzi

LinkedIn:KatherineDahlkemper

Instagram:Katherine_Dahlkemper

PROFESSIONALCAREER:

CURRENT POSITION:

Co-Owner

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

12years

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Leadingmyteamof10+employees,personallyinteractingwithcustomers, buyingmerchandiseforthestore,networkingwithpeers,planningforthe next1-5yearsofthecorporation(sales,promotions,holidays,events,etc).

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT:

Effective&successfulwaysothershaveleadandinspiredtheirteamto buyintotheirWHYasanorganization,hiring/firing,whatmotivates theiremployeestodotheirbest,effective&creativein-storeevents, waysothersbuyEstatejewelry&howtheyprotectthemselvesfrom buyingmerchandisethat’sgoldplatedandstillstamped14K,labgrown diamonds-what’sthecurrentstatuswithotherstoresinhowtheyare orarenotsellinglabgrowndiamondsandwhatweexpectasan industrymovingforwardwiththemarginsandpuredollaramountsof labgrownsalesversusearthmined.

Conceptually,howdoothershandlestressofthebusiness,stressof beingtheonethatmakesthefinaldecision,howdoothershandlehard daysattheofficeandcomehometotheirfamilies&transitionfrom ownertofamily/parentrole.

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME?

Iwouldliketolearntoseworknitandmakeblanketsforthoseinthe NICUorMICUtohavewhentheyareinthehospital.Iwanttodonatethe blankets-Idon’twantmoneyforit.ButIdon’thavethetimetositsew/ knitrightnow.

WHAT DO

I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Ienjoygoingdowntothewater,weliverightbyapeninsulainErie.I amtryingtogetmoreintoreading-Ihaveafewfriendssharingtheir favoritebookswithme!Ienjoyandkeepverybusybeingabonus mamatoabeautiful10-year-oldgirl.Ireallyenjoytravelingfor pleasure-butthatisnotsomethingIcandooftenrightnowinmylife. Ialsoenjoyvolunteeringatlocaleventsornon-profitswhenable.A feworganizationsmyhusbandandIarepassionateaboutsupporting andvolunteeringforareNewLifeNewBlossomwhichhelpsfamilies withinfertility,LinkedforPink(breastcancer),andIlikehelpingout atthelocalErieHumaneSociety,myfurbabyISMYbabyandalsoa fewdifferenthomelesssheltersinErie.Idon’talwaysgettovolunteer, butwhenIdoitfeelsveryrewardingandIlovebeingabletohelp.

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

ManIFeelLikeAWomanbyShaniaTwain

BRENDON DAVIS

THOMASA.DAVISJEWELER

Istartedandwasfortunateataveryyoungagetohaveaccesstoawaxcarvingbench inthebasementofmychildhoodhome MydadtoldmeifIreallywantedtogiveago totryandcarveabasicsignetstylering,butmybraindoesnotoperatethatwayandI opted to carve the letter B into a ring. I succeeded at the early age of nine and that's really where it started. My father never believed in pushing me into a career so for the longest time my family thought I would be a chef, but I opted to not be yelled at by ungrateful diners and go into jewelry where I get yelled at if it's not done fast enoughinstead hahaha

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE?

Reese'sPeanutButterEggs(Dependingonseason Hearts,Footballs,Treesetc...)

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

Iwillsingalldaytomyselfandloveallgenresofmusic. ButHATEtotalk/singinfrontofpeople.Sorry;)

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

I'masuckerforabeachanytime,butIalsolovethe UpperPeninsulaofMichigan

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Myfather.Hebuiltthecurrentbusinesstoitsgreatest potentialbeforeItookover10yearsagoevenafterhaving tocloseajewelrystoreintheearly1980's Hepersevered afterashortstintofbeingatravellingsalespersonandreopenedfromnothingin1989.Hisknowledgeexpandsover 50yearsandwillbegreatlymissedsomeday Hewasoneof thefirsttogainthetitleCertifiedGemologistAppraiser fromAmericanGemSocietywhichrequiresyearsof dedicationtotheindustry.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Weareblessedtobeabletoandtravelquitefrequently andtrytogetoutintothewilderness.Whetherhikingin themountains,rainforestorjustswimminginthe ocean.

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Notreallyasuperpowerbuthavealwaysthoughtabout wantingtoflybutbebytheoceanSoIhavecometothe conclusionthataPelicanisit!

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

CURRENT POSITION:

20years

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

CustomDesign-Creatingthatpieceforacustomerwith specialmeaningbeyondjustsellingapieceoutofthe case.

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Betterleadershipskills

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

Currentlyworkingonopeningmyownstore!Ihavealways wantedtotrymyhandatstartingupabusiness(Stilla jewelrystore,butIwanttousemyknowledgetobuildit fromscratch.)

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Iloveworkingwithmyhands,traveling,beingwithmy kiddos,beingonthelake/boat!Andcooking!!

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

Ehh sureRJOCornholeTournamentReigning Champions That'sanawardright;)

RJOMerchandiseReviewCommitteemember

NATALIE DIMODICA

JAMESWOLFJEWELERS

I grew up in the jewelry industry My parents have owned the store since I was seven! I started working there, full time in 2021 My husband, Drew, and I have beenmarriedforfiveyearsandwehavea10-month-olddaughternamedElla

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE?

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY: CURRENT POSITION:

SalesAssociate

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION: Blackraspberrychocolatechipicecream 2years

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

US:MyrtleBeach. International:Cancun

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

MyDad!IamtryingmybesttolearnallIcanfrom him WeworktogethermultipletimesaweekandI’m alwayslearningsomethingnew

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

I’vegonesnorkelingandzipliningmultipletimes, bothwereablast!

CONTACTME:

Cell:513-508-2839

Email:natwolf3@gmailcom

Engagementringsalesaremyfavorite.Itissuchabig milestoneintheirlife,andIgettobeapartofit!

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Managingateam/store

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

IamcurrentlyworkingtowardsmyGGtitleandhavea goaltotakeovermyparent’sstoreasasomewhat absenteeowner(Iwanttobetheremultipletimesaweek butIdon’twanttobeontheworkschedule!)

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK: Spendingtimewithmydaughterandfamily!

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

Iamthe2023recipientoftheAGSandGIA BeatriceShipleyScholarship.

JOSH DURHAM

PARKERJEWELERS

CARLISLEPA

I’m a third-generation jeweler/watchmaker and operate our store with my wife Wehavea16-month-olddaughterwhokeepsusonourtoesoutsideofthestore.

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY: CURRENT POSITION:

Owner

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Youdon?twantmetosing??

Prettymuchanythingfromabakery 15years Helpingpeople!

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Savannah,Georgia

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Ourpeers,theyinfluenceustoimproveeveryday!

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

I’dlovetogoonanAlaskanhuntingtrip.

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

FlyingorTeleporting!Ihatewastingtimetraveling.

CONTACT ME:

Cell717-422-1267

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Storemanagementskills,includingsomeemployee managementandlongtermplanning.

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK: Ienjoybeingoutside,hunting,hiking,spendingtime withmyfamily!

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

Weareworkingtogrowourbusinesssothatwecan spendmoretimewithourdaughter. Severaldesigncompetitionawards,andbestof forourcounty.

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

KATRINA DURHAM

PARKERJEWELERS

CARLISLE,PA

I am a new mom; we have a 15-month-old daughter named Anna. I met my husband Josh in jewelry and watchmaking school in Texas and after we graduated in 2011, I moved to PA to work in his grandfather's store. We bought the store from his grandfather six years ago and have been growing ever since. I am a trained bench jeweler,butInowwearlotsofhats IfeelveryluckytobedoingsomethingthatIlove andhopetocontinuegrowinginthejewelryindustry

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY: CURRENT POSITION:

Icecreamandwine 12years

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

I'veneverdonekaraokebutifIhadtoIwould chooseIceIceBaby

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Savannah,GA

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Oneofthemostinfluentialpeopleinmylifeismy friend,Rebecca Wemetatabusinessreferralgroup, andIaskedhertobemymentorbutthroughthat processwehavebecomegreatfriends.Herandher husbandhaveamortgagefirminourtown,andshehas about12employees Sheisalwayshelpingmewith businessadviceandhastaughtmealotaboutbeinga businessowner.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE? Iamnottooadventurous!

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

IwouldlovetoclonemyselfsoIcangetmoredoneinaday!

CONTACTME:

Textisalwaysgreat717-218-4340

FacebookKatrinaDurham

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Ilovetoworkwithcustomers,planeventsanddosome benchwork

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Iamhopingtolearnmoreabouttrainingstaff,new eventideas,andhowtocreateanadvertisingplan.Ialso wouldlovetodosomegoalsettingforthe4thquarter and2024.

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

AcurrentgoalIamworkingtowardsisabetterworklife balance.Ourbiggesthurdlehasbeenbeingabletoleave thestorewithouthavingtoclose.Wehaveagreatstaff rightnow,butweneedtosmoothsomeofourprocesses andmoretraining

Wehavebeenworkingsohardtohavethetime,I'mnot surewhatIwanttodowiththetimeoncewehaveit!

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK: Ienjoyrunning,I'mnotfastbutIdoenjoyitand spendingtimewithourdaughter.

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

Level2JAbenchjeweler

WehavewonafewdesigncontestawardsatIJOshows

Owner

AMANDA ESSICK

NELSONJEWELRY

SPENCER,IA

Ihavetwogirls,agessevenandfour.Ihavetwoyearsretailexperiencepriorto thejewelryindustryandtenyearsintherestaurantbusinessbeforethat.Ihave alwayslovedtohelppeople.Itismygreatestneedtofeelfulfilled!

ABOUT ME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE?

PeanutButterM&M's Me&BobbyMcGeebyJanisJoplin:D

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY: CURRENT POSITION:

Almostnine(9)

StoreManager/Buyer

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

NewYorkCity

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

SABRINASMEAD!:D

Honestly,Tomhasbeensuchanamazingmentor andissoinfluential Hehasentrustedmesomuch withhisstoreandallowedmetodosomanythings I lookuptohim,asheknowssomuchaboutsomany differentthings!Heisawealthofknowledge!

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE? Travelingsolo-especiallytoNewYorktotakemy diamondgradinglab

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Iwouldliketobeabletofly Orhavesuper-human strength NotsurewhatI'dusethemforbutit'dbea flexforsure

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Customerrelationships,buyingjewelryforthestore, attendingRJOshows,GIAEducation,merchandising, andeverythingelsethisindustryhastooffer.

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Thetransitioncomingupformystoreinthenextfew years,andwhatthatallentails.Alsonetworkingand learningaboutpeoplethataremyagedoingthesame things

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

DaveMatthewsBandliveconcerts.I'vebeento12and counting.Ialsolovedrivingandseeingnature.Ienjoy alonetimewhenIcangetit!

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

IbeganTaekwondoinJune,buthadtoputitasideas someeveningissueshavecomeup Iwilleventuallystart thisagainwheneveningshavesloweddownsome! Workingonmyself,too. IhavemyGraduateDiamondsfromGIA!

HEATHER FRITZ-BAUER

MILLSJEWELERS

LOCKPORTNY

I’vebeenworkingwithmyDadatourstoresinceIwasatlittlegirl,helpingoutat bridal shows handing out flowers to brides Now I have my hand in almost all aspectsofthebusiness

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION: Pizzaandspongecandy 17years

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

NYCoranyCaribbeanorBahamascruise!

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY? MyDad.HehastaughtmeallIknowaboutthis businessandalotaboutnavigatingthroughlife.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Zipliningovertherainforestorhelicopterrideover theGrandCanyon

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Freezingtime

CONTACTME:

Heather@millsjewelers.com

Helpingcustomersfindtheperfectpieceofjewelry.Also thesenseofcommunityandfriendshipwithmystaff andwithmycustomers.

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Howtotransitionsmoothly,alsotoolsforbeingabetter manager

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

BecomingaGraduateGemologist

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Myfamily-Ihave3daughtersandahusbandwhois notinthebusiness.Welovelivemusic/concertsand enjoyingbeingoutside.Wespendalotoftimeatour girls’soccergamesandgymnasticsmeets.

BERNARDO HINOJOSA

MOOREJEWELERS

LAREDO,TEXAS

I’ve been in the jewelry business since I was 18 years old. At 15 years of age, I was drawn and knew jewelry is the career path I wanted to follow. Very passionate and driven. I am 27 years old, and I am the sales manager at Moore Jewelers in Laredo, Texas IamhappytocometothistrainingwhereIamhopingtolearnalotofskillsto crosstraintoourstaff

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

Candies&icecream

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

AnywhereinMexico

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Myfather,hehasshownmehardworkand dedication.Heinspiresmetomakethemostoutof myonelifeI’vebeengiven.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

I’mnotveryadventurous.ButIdobelieveriskis neededtobesuccessful.

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Useahigherpercentageofmybrainlikethelimitless movie

CONTACTME:

Email:Bernardo.moorejewelers@gmail.com

CURRENT POSITION:

Nine(9)years

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Leadingthesalesfloor,havingtheknowledgeand experiencetohelpourstaffbemoresuccessful,working withuniquejewelryandbeingpartofexcitingspecial momentsinourguestslives

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Organization,newtechniques,hearwhatotherstores/ manager/ownersaredoingintheirorganization.

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME? WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

Beanimportantroleinthejewelrybusiness.Store owner,jeweler,designer,ultimategoal

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Spendingtimewithmywife

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

DCACertified

GIAtraining

SalesManager

PEYTON KONIECZKA

Iliketopaint,Ilovetotravel,andIhavetwolittlesiblings.

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY: CURRENT POSITION:

PastaandCarmelrolls(nottogetherlol) 3years

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

Idon’tsinginpublic

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU HAVE EVER VISITED?

Italy

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Mymomisthemostinfluentialpersoninmylife becauseshehasahugeheartaswellasthe knowledgeofwhennottouseit.Shehadraisedme wellevenwhenshewasasinglemother,andshehas shownmehowyoucanbekindandprofessional.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE? ThemostadventurousthingI’dliketodoisgoscubadivingorbackpackthroughacountry.

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Iwouldhavethepowerofknowingalllanguagesand Iwoulduseittocommunicatewithothersandlearn newcultures.

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Workingwithcustomersonfindingtheirperfectpieces andbeingtrustedwithimportantdecisions.

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Howtotrainandmanageemployeesbetter

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME? WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

NewlanguageandagoalI’mcurrentlyworkingtowards iscreatingmoreart

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK: Ienjoypainting(allartreally)andspendingtime withmyfamily.

ALLISON LEITZEL WILLIAMS

LEITZEL'SJEWELRY

MYERSTOWN,PA

I am the third generation and first woman owner of our family's jewelry store, Leitzel's Jewelry I was always inspired by my family's business and had a close relationship with my grandfather who built the foundation of our business I began my career by working weekends while I earned my business degree at Millersville University Following my undergraduate, I moved to Carlsbad, CAtostudygemologyatGIAandearnedmyGraduateGemologistdiploma Ihadtheopportunity toworkandlearnalongsidemyfatherandasourbusinessgrew,myhusbandchangedcareersand joinedthefamilybusiness Togetherwegrewourbusinesstotworetailstores,andwecompleteda business ownership transition My father is retired, and I own the business with my husband, Trevor

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

Crabdip,mojitos,anddarkchocolate

CURRENT POSITION:

20years

Co-Owner&President

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

I'veneverkaraoked!ButifIdidhaveasong,it mightbe,Don'tStopBelievin'

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

HiltonHead,SouthCarolina

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Mydadisthemostinfluentialpersoninmylife.Hehas alwaysbeenaleaderandadvocateinmylife.Henever pressuredmetojointhefamilybusinessandtruly includedmewhenImadethedecisiontopursuemy careerinbusiness.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

IfeellikethemostadventurousthingI'veeverdoneisgo intothejewelrybusiness,butIwillsayzipliningand rappellingintoaMayanCenoteinMexico.

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

IwouldlovethepowertobeintwoplacesatonetimesoI couldconcentrateonmybusinessandstillspendasmuch timeaspossiblewithmyfamily.

CONTACTME:

Email:allison@leitzelsjewelry.com

Phone:717-298-6725

BusinessSocial:@leitzelsjewelry

Personalsocial:AllisonLeitzelWilliams

Workingwithmyhusbandasbusinesspartners, strategizingforthefuture,embracingastrongcompany culture

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Iamexcitedabouttheleadershipopportunitiesinthenew track

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME?

Iwouldliketoexpandmyknowledgeandstudiesinpearls, jewelrytimeperiodsandhistory.Ihaveavisiontocreatea curatedestatecollectedcalled"Ida&Bea"(namedaftermy grandmothers)filledwithstoriedtreasures.

Iamcurrentlyworkingtowardsthegoaloftravelingmoreand hopetoplanmyfirstAntwerpdiamondbuyingtripin2024.

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Mytruejoyandpassioninlifeismyfamily.Iammarried tomy"preschoolsweetheart"andbusinesspartner,Trevor. Wehavetwochildren:oursonBroganis10andour daughterHadleyis5.Iloveflowers,reading,sportsand travelling.

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

CentralPennsylvania40Under40, JewelersofAmerican20Under40, AmericanHeartAssociationVolunteeroftheYear, UnitedWayLeonardWashingtonServiceAward RJONextGenAdvisoryBoardMember

MORGAN LORENZ

MICHAEL&SON'SJEWELRY

IhaverecentlygraduatedwithmyBachelor'sdegreesinBusinessManagementandMarketing, with a minor in Human Resources. I am now pursuing my Masters of Business Administration attheUniversityofNevada,Reno Ihavebeeninvolvedinmyfamily'sbusinessforaboutseven years I enjoy working with our bridal clients and my goal is to expand our bridal business beyond engagement rings and wedding rings. I am passionate about sharing how jewelry can be a way to represent the pivotal moments in our lives and an important way to express ourselves I believe that this passion is what allowed our business to continue to grow and reachagenerationalclient-base.

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE?

Frenchfries Seven(7)years

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Anywherewithaplaceinthesuntorelax!

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Mydadhasplayedanextremelyinfluentialroleinmylife.I havebeenabletowatchhimbuildaninitiallyverysmall businessintoagrowingandinfluentialbusinesswithinour community Heissomeonewhoissopassionateaboutwhat hedoesandisalwayswillingtogotheextramiletoimprove andgrow.Mydadhastaughtmetheimportanceofgiving back,emphasizingvalueandcreativity,andtoalwaysdothe rightthing

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Iwouldliketospendmoretimetravelingabroad

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Ithinkmysuperpowerwouldbetimetraveling Iwould lovetheabilitytogobackintimetowitnessiconic momentsinhistory Iwouldalsoenjoytheabilitytosee familymembersthatInevergottomeet.

CONTACTME:

morgan@michaelandsonscom

(775)843-1042

Instagram@morgannlorenz

https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganlorenz/

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

CURRENT POSITION:

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Ireallyenjoyworkingwithclientstobuildtheirweddingbands.It isexcitingtoseethemputsomuchthoughtintoarepresentation oftheirnextchaptertogether Ialsoenjoywalkingclientsthrough repairintake Itcanbeaveryeducationalprocessanditcanbring yearsoflifebacktosomethingtheycherishsodeeply

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT:

Iamexcitedtohearthestoriesofothersastheyhavenavigated growingupintheindustryandhowIcanlearntomaximizemy experiencestobenefitmyfuture Iamhopingtolearnmoreabout myfutureroleinourbusiness,howIcancontinuetogrow,and learnfromthesuccessstoriesofothers

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

Agoalofmineistoexpandourbridalbusinesstoemphasize the"bridalwardrobe"andothermomentsthatrepresentan engagement/relationshipbeyondtheweddingday Iwould alsoliketobecomeaGraduateGemologistandamworking towardsthisgoalbytakingclassesthroughGIA

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Ienjoycookingandamtryingtolearnmoreaboutbaking I likespendingtimetryingoutnewrestaurantsaroundtown

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

IhavecompletedtheJewelryEssentials&Diamond EssentialscoursesthroughGIA

ABOUTME:

GABRIEL LYNN

GREGLYNNJEWELERS

I'veworkedatthefamilybusinesssinceIwas15,Idabbleintheculinaryartsand liketoescapetothebeacheverychanceIget

PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

PALMCOAST,FL. Manager

CURRENT POSITION:

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

IBelieveinaThingCalledLove-TheDarkness

Cheesypasta 17years Workingthroughcustomprojects Designingand interactingwiththecustomercounterside.

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Hawaii,butColorado/Utahforhikingiseasierto makehappen.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

I'dlovetoskydivesomedaywhenmykidsaregrown

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Easy,I'dlovetofly.PeterPanstyle.

CONTACTME:

Cell: 386-503-2273

Email: mastergabeotaz@gmailcom

Instagram:mastergabeotaz

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Ihopetolearnhowtotrainandempoweremployees better,aswellasmanagingmoreofthebusinesssideof thestore

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

I'dlovetobecomeproficientinCADdesignbutlongtermwould-behand-engravingandgoldinlay I'm workingatlearningCADnowinmysparetime.

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Ienjoyspendingtimewithmykidsandatthebeach. Whentime/workpermitsI'dliketogetintocar restoration/modifying IusedtobesuperintoLego andwouldbuildlayoutsandcities/trainyardstill about10yearsago

STACY MENK

BRAINERD, MN

Retiredelementarymusicteacherof24years,momtotwosophomoresincollege, startingownertoahomemacaronbusinessandstudenttothejewelryindustry!

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE?

Sweets,chocolate,macarons

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

StrawberryWineorBeforeHeCheats

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Disneyandthebeach

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Myhusband-becausefamilyisimportant

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Music,bakingmacarons,animals-especiallycats, beingcreativeinthearts&keepingupwmycrew

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Marrymyhusband

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Fly-avoidtrafficandtravelfaster

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

CURRENT POSITION:

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Daughter-in-lawtoowner

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: SocialmediaelementstohelpthestoreandwhereIwill fitin

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME? WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

Juststarting Flexibleschedule Learninghowmakejewelryandtoownajewelrystore

CONTACTUS:

Stacymenk@gmailcom; 601-896-2601

WILLIAM MENK

E L MENK JEWELERS BRAINERD, MN- STORE

Currentlyfinishingroboticscareer,lookingtotakeoverthefamilybusinessinthenextfewyears

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

Icecream Wholelifewithabreakforcurrentcareer

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

I’maLittleTeapot!Lol

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Disneywithfamilyoranywheremywifetellsmetogo

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Mywife-becausefamilymatters

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Ziplining

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Mindreading;pureevil??hahaha

CURRENT POSITION: Seniorpaintprocessengineer(currentjob); Sontoownerofstore

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Translationsofnextgenerationstakingoverandhow theindustryhasprogressedinthelast15years

CONTACTME:

Williammenk@gmailcom 662-582-7880

BRITTANY MURRELL

GOLDANDMOREJEWELERS

I am a mom to three handsome boys that are all so VERY different from each other. My oldest son Brandon will be 14 in February, and he is so different from me, he likestoplayvideogames,andthenturnaroundandcode/designhisowngames.My middle son, Tanner, is the one who will make me go gray the quickest as he will be threeinFebruaryanddoesnotstopmoving.Hisfavoritethingtodoisplaybaseball and golf, and while he plays, he likes to watch it on the tv as well so everyone can "taketurns"lol Itwillbeinterestingtoseehowmyyoungestturnsoutasheisonly twomonthsoldatthemoment,soheisEXTREMELYgoodateatingcurrently

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE?

CrumblCookies

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

Idonotkaraokelol

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Colorado

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Themostinfluentialpeopleinmylifewouldbemybest friendsChristinaandArielle.Thesetwowomenpushmeso muchtoaccomplishwhateveritisIhavesetmymindto,and continuallyremindmethatnomatterwhatIcanget throughanything.Theytrulystrivetodobettereachand everydaynotonlyforthemselvesbutforeveryonearound themaswell.Theyhavethemostkindandlovingsoulsand aresopowerfulandstrongintheirpositionsintheiroffices.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Iwouldlovetogoskydivingoneday,itisamajorbucket listitemforme

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Iwouldhavethepowertoreadpeople'smindssowhenmy childrenarelying(notthatIdon'tknowalready)Iknowwhat reallyhappenedhaha

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

CURRENT TITLE:

12years

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Beingabletomaketheamazingconnectionswithmyclients andgettingtoknowthem,notonlyinwhatkindofjewelry theylike,butalsoonapersonallevel,andgettingclosewith themandtheirfamily

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT:

Ihopetolearnmoreaboutthefinancesideofthingswhenit comestothebusinessalongwithstockbalancingandhow oftentodoitwithvendors.

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

MycurrentgoalistomakeitthroughtheGIAprogramsto becomeacertifiedGG Iamcurrentlyworkingtowardsthata littleatatime

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Ienjoyplayingoutsidewithmykids,andgoingtothegym ThegymisabigpassionofminewhichIstrivetogetbetter ateachandeveryday

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

AMY PEREDA

GEMMAS JEWELERS

MISSION VIEJO CALIFORNIA

Iam31yearsyoung,workingatourfamilybusinesssinceIwas15 Atthattimewewerejustbeginningto buildthebusinesswithonelocation Wenowhavethreestores,whichtakesupthemajority ofmytime! Duringthattime,IdecidedtopursueGemologyandJewelryDesigning.

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

IWillSurvive

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Mexico

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

My Mother, she is a strong willed lady who always handleseverythingthrownherway.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

LearnToMountainCycle!

CONTACTME:

amyv@gemmasjewelerscom

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY: CURRENT POSTION:

11years

Sales/Manager

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Assistingclientswiththeirpurchases,beingpartofa happyenvironment!

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Managingourbusinessmoreefficiently!

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

My free time consists of hanging out with my teenager, Sebastian, my dog, Onyx, hanging out with mygirlfriends,cooking,andtraveling

DREW RASMUSSEN

LRJEWELERS

CEDARFALLS,IA

Iamathirdgenerationjeweler,girldadoftwo,husband,andloveroftryingnew thingsandplaces

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY: CURRENT POSITION:

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION: IloveItalianfood,andIcecream. 14years

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

FriendsinLowPlaces

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Europe

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

MyFather,becausehehastaughtmeeverythingI knowinthisbusinessandmanythingsthatwillbe withmeforalifetimebeyondthebusiness.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Iwouldlovetoskydive,andthemostadventurous thingIhavedoneisbackpackacrossEuropeforthree monthsI'dsay.

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Itwouldbebeingabletofly.Iwoulduseittogoall overtoanyplaceI'dwannago.

CONTACTME:

LRJEWELERS@GMAIL COM

Manager/Treasurer

Interactingwithpeople

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT:

Transitionofownership

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME?

Iaspiretolearnanotherlanguage AgoalIam currentlyworkingtowardsisfinishingourbasement, andaddingapatio/deckatourhouse.

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK: Boatingandtraveling

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

GIADiamond,GIAAJP

MAGENA REUSCH

REUSCHJEWELERS

I am the fifth generation in a family of jewelers going back to 1885 I have only recently entered the industry with a serious pursuit for the future, and I'm looking to someday help my dad retire and take over the store I have definitely taken the long way to wanting to be a part of the family business, with over a decade of my adult life living many different lives: everything from a donut decorator to the coownerofanewageandspirtualitystore!

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY: CURRENT POSITION:

Sushi! 2years

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

AreYouGonnaBeMyGirl?byJet

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Mydadisbyfarthemostinfluentialpersoninmy lifeforavarietyofreasons Irememberbeingalittle girlandwantingtobemydadwhenIgrewup,and I'mslowlyrealizingmychildhooddream Mydadis oneofthekindestandmosthard-workingpeopleI've everknown,andheconstantlyencouragesand inspiresmetobethebestpersonIcanbe.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Igottogozip-liningoveranentirevalleyfulloftrees whenIvisitedCostaRica Itwasincredible!Ilove tryingnewadventures!

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Iamalwayslookingforanewprojectaroundthe houseoryard.Iliketoplayallkindsofdifferent gameswhetherthey'repenandpaperorvideogames. Ihaveastrongloveofstoriesandstory-telling,andI loveabookormoviemostwhenitgetsitshooksinme andIcan'tstopthinkingaboutit.

IlovethemomentyoufindTHEthingforacustomer: thewaytheireyeslightupandthejoyitbringsthemis easilyoneofmyfavoriteelements.Nottomention cleaningupjewelryandrestoringittoneworalmost newandtheemotionitbringsbackisanincredible sharedfeelingbetweenthecustomersandmyself.

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT:

IwanttolearnasmuchasIcanabouttakingovera legacybusinessinthejewelryindustry!Myfamilyhas beenintheindustryforoveracentury,butIpersonally startedonlyacoupleyearsago Iwillsoonhavethe opportunitytotakeoverthereinsinauniquewaywith mydadstillowningandbeingavailable,andI'mlooking tolearnasmuchasIcantohelpwiththenextfewyears andthefutureoverall!

WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

Ihaveapassionforlearninglanguages,andI'm challengingmyselftolearnmoreallthetime!I'vestarted pickingupJapaneseinmyfreetime,sinceit'sonemy dreamdestinationsthatI'dlovetovisit.

ALYSSA SARRAZIN

BECKERS JEWELERS

WEST BURLINGTON, IOWA

ItrulyenjoywhatIdoprofessionally.I'vebeenwiththesamegreatstorefor15years.Ourownershiphasbeen incrediblygenerouswithsharingthisincredibleworldofjewelrywithmefromthebeginning.

ABOUTME:

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Ireallycherishagoodtime Livemusic,bikerides, camping,boating,oranamazingfoodieexperience makemyday!Atriptoanewplaceoraquietevening onthepatiowithmydoggoandbestpeopleispure magic

CONTACTME:

alyssa@beckerdiamondscom

PROFESSIONALCAREER:

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

CURRENT POSITION:

15+ StoreManager

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION: Creatingmarketingopportunities,androllingoutsales plans

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Understandingthemotivationsofmysalesteamto enablehigherperformance.Timemanagement.

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

RJOFoundationScholarship

JESSICA WEBER

WEBER'S JEWELRY

I graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign with degrees in Economics and Urban Planning. From there, I took a job with Boeing in Seattle, WA where I started a career in finance. Eventually, I got an opportunity with Boeing to move to St. Louis and to be closer to my now husband, Adam Weber. I received my Masters in Finance from Washington University in St. Louis and climbed the ladder acrossvariouspositionsatBoeinginFinanceandOperationsandintomanagement Afterastringofeventsincludingthepandemic,workingfromhome,andhavingour 3rd child, we found ourselves back in our hometown in Illinois, closer to family Earlier this year I decided to leave the corporate world to pursue my passion of owningabusinessandcontinuingthelongtraditionithashad

ABOUT ME: PROFESSIONAL CAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

AnythingTaylorSwift....ButalsoFleetwoodMac,Dreams

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? Anykindofs'moresdessert:)

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

BonitaSprings,FL

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Myhusband,Adam.Hehasalwaysbeensupportive ofmycareerandinterests,whatevertheyare.He's alwaysoneIcanthinkthroughideasorthoughtsand getthemfullyvetted.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

I'vebeensharkcagedivingintheIndianOceanoffof SouthAfrica Ihavealsoflownafighterjetsimulator

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Teleporting....IwoulduseittotravelwhereverIneed tobe,rightaway,sothatdistanceisn'tabigdeal

CONTACT ME:

Email:jw.webersjewelry@gmail.com

Phone:217-240-0321(cell)

Facebook:JessicaDustWeber

Instagram:jldust2

LinkedIn:JessicaDustWeber

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

CURRENT POSITION:

One(1)year

FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Brainstormingandsolvingproblemswiththeteam Ialso enjoycreatinganoverallstrategyaroundmarketing, inventory,operationsandfinances

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME?

Iaspiretolearnhealthymealprepandbecomean exerciseinstructorofsomesort.AgoalI'mcurrently workingtowardsbeingasmallbusiness owner/entrepreneur

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT:

Gaininsightfromotherswhohaveboughtajewelry storefrompreviousgenerationsorpreviousowners

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

GraduateofBoeing'sLeadershipNeXTprogram

TEUTOPOLIS, IL

StoreManager

MATEUSZ WIELOMEK

STUDIODJEWELERS

WOODSTOCK,IL

Immigrated from Poland at three years old and have lived in the Midwest ever since. Fell into the industry rather by accident but have thoroughly enjoyed it since

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE?

YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

CURRENT POSITION: 4years SalesSupervisor

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

Youdon'twanttohearmesing

TacoBell TalkingtocustomersandwatchingthenewSales Associategrowintoherposition

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

England-Liverpool,specifically

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Probablymymomassheinspiredmetobethe personIamtoday

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

Wouldlovetotakemoretripsaroundtheworld Have enjoyedmytimeinPoland,France,andEnglandso far

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND HOW WOULD YOU USE IT?

Teleportation-havingtheabilitytobewherever wheneverwouldbeawonderfulthing.

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Hopingtofurtherdevelopandcuratemyskillsina managementsense

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME?

GettingmyGGsomedaycouldbeagreat accomplishment

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK: WatchingmoviesandTV,playingsports

AWARDS OR ACCOLADES?

AshortfilmIactedinwonawardsacrosstheworld

SABRINA SMEAD

OUTREACHCOORDINATOR,RJO NEWTON,IOWA

I am a mom to FOUR boys. Married to my best friend. Currently in my “Senior MomEra”andlovingeveryminute.

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

RedCurryorchipsanddip

5years

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

HarperValleyPTAorIslandsintheStreambutIamaterriblesinger!

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

Ilovethebeach,ourfamilylovesSt.JohnsPass,FL.

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Mygrandma Shelovedpeoplesowellandalways leftthemalittlebetterthanshefoundthem

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Hangingoutwithmyfamily Thereisn’talotoffree timewhenyouhavefourboys,butIreallyjustlove watchingthemdowhattheyloveandsoakingitallin. IalsoloveGatorrides,anightonthepatioarounda firewithfriends.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

IattendedJCKshowwiththeMRCinVegas

ILOVEconnectingwiththeretailersandvendorsofRJO. IloveworkingwiththeMRCandhelpingnewvendors jointhegroup Ialsoloveplanningtheeducation sessionsforeachbuyingshow

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME? WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

SomedayIwouldliketogobacktoschooltogetmy mastersandeventuallyteachatacommunitycollege.

CONTACTME:

sabrina@rjomemberscom

Facebook:SabrinaHoffertSmead

SARAH STREB

CHIEFEXECUTIVEOFFICER,RJO NEWTON,IOWA

I grew up in my family’s retail jewelry store, working there through my college years. I realized I was horrible at retail, but loved the industry and was lucky enough to be offered a position at RJO as the Executive Director’s Assistant. Twenty-oneyearslaterandIstilllovetheindustry!

ABOUTME: PROFESSIONALCAREER:

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY FOOD PLEASURE? YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY:

Chipsandqueso 25years

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? FAVORITE ELEMENTS OF MY POSITION:

WhipIt(Butonlyifperformedwithmytwosisters)

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE YOU EVER VISITED?

AnnaMariaIsland

WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENCIAL PERSON IN YOUR LIFE, AND WHY?

Bothmyparents.Theyhaveeachinstilleddifferent qualitiesandvaluesinmeandhaveprovideda lovingandsupportiveenvironmentformetochoose myownpath.

WHAT DO I ENJOY DOING WHEN I AM NOT AT WORK:

Ihavethreeboys(17,14,9)whoareincrediblyactive. Mostdaysyouwillfindmeonafieldorinagym cheeringthemon! MyhusbandandIalsoenjoy cheeringontheIowaHawkeyesandattendinglotsof Hawkeyeevents.

WHAT IS THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU HAVE DONE?

ZiplinedoverFremontStreetinVegasandstrolled thestreetsofthetinycountryofLuxembourg followinganRJOtriptoAntwerp

Ienjoystrategicplanningandworkingwiththe leadershipteamsofRJOtosetgoalsandobjectivesfor theorganization It’sexcitingtobrainstormandfind wayswecancontinuetoaidinbothourretailers’and vendorpartners’successes

WHAT AM I HOPING TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AT THIS EVENT: Ireallyenjoygettingthisqualitytimewithasmaller groupofourretailers. Hearingyourchallenges, accomplishments,andspecificexperiencesallowsmeto haveabetterunderstandingofyourneeds.

WHAT NEW THING DO YOU ASPIRE TO LEARN OR PURSUE “SOMEDAY” WHEN YOU GET THE TIME? WHAT IS A GOAL OR DREAM YOU'RE CURRENTLY WORKING TOWARDS?

WhenmykiddosareoutofthehouseandIhaveabit moretime,Iwouldlovetogobacktoschooltogetmy MastersinOrganizationalLeadership. Ialsoneedto pushmyselftogetmorecomfortablewithpublic speaking (IHATEIT!)

CONTACTME:

sarah@rjomembers.com

Facebook:SarahDickensStreb

NOT

LAUREN GARRETT

ASSISTANT MANAGER SPENCER, IOWA

&

SAMANTHA TUPPER

OWNER

BROOKINGS, SD

SPONSORS AND PRESENTERS:

PATRICK CONNOR, ATTORNEY

CHUCK FREY, CHARLES FREY & ASSOC.

KYLE PANCIS, GEMS BY PANCIS

ANDREW AURILLO, GN DIAMONDS

VINCE RATH, PTIMUM RETAIL SOLUTIONS

TIM GLASGOW, OPTIMUM RETAIL SOLUTIONS

DAYNA BROWN, OPTIMUM RETAIL SOLUTIONS

CRAIG MACBEAN, OSTBYE

JEFF WYNKOOP, QUALITY GOLD