When Michelle and Anthony Licht, the owners of well-known Hamilton jewellery store, Goldsmiths Gallery Designer Jewellers, moved into their new Victoria Street premises last year they had every reason to feel confident about the future.
Then, just two weeks after they opened their doors, the country went into lockdown, and things, in Michelle’s words, got “really tough”.True, at 427 Victoria Street they had a bright, new, and beautiful store nearly twice the size of their previous premises. Moreover, they had finally achieved a viewing room for customers to sit in privacy and comfort whilst considering diamonds and discussing the remodelling or creation of their bespoke jewellery. However, none of that made sense with no customers and shut doors. And, while Covid-19 stopped business, it did not stop the regular arrival of bills for the shop fit-out.
Fortunately, in their more than 20 years of service to the Waikato community, the couple and their team of jewellers had built a loyal customer base.Michelle says they are so grateful for the way in which they were supported once they were able to re-open.
“In some cases we have served three generations of families, and they understood our situation, and returned to us. We are overwhelmed by the amazing support.”
Michelle says the private viewing room is a vital tool in meeting the challenge posed by online stores.
“We can show customers what they are buying, we can show them computer imagery of the design they have asked for, and they can feel fully involved in the process of manufacture – all in privacy and comfort while seated on a couch. It gives us the personal relationship the internet cannot offer.”
While most of their work is onsite, Michelle says they enjoy offsite adventures as well. “We are back at the national schools rowing competition, the Maadi Cup, at Lake Karapiro again this year. The participants are so lovely and appreciative of the rowing-themed range of pendants, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and cufflinks we have designed. It’s such a contrast to our usual day – holding down a tent in wind and rain.”
Goldsmiths Gallery Designer jewellers is based at 427 Victoria Street, Hamilton, and ground floor, Chartwell Shopping Centre. It’s well worth a visit to see their gorgeous range of bespoke jewellery, and since the two stores have different stock, take the time to explore both!
