What aspect or skill does your daughter bring to the workplace that you find most inspiring?

She holds a degree in Business Administration from Northeastern University in Boston, MA. Aarti leverages her marketing and communications prowess in our stores. Besides learning the intricacies of the business, she is also an active member of the sales team.

What Artful Bracelets design would you suggest as a Mother’s Day gift, and what specific elements would you recommend incorporating into that design?

For a meaningful Mother’s Day gift, I highly recommend the Mediterranean Necklace. This beautiful piece resonates deeply with the spirit of motherhood through its components. The inclusion of Turquoise brings a sense of serenity and wellness, while Mother of Pearl signifies purity, representing the timeless bond between mother and child. The incorporation of sand elements symbolizes the strength and resilience innate in motherhood, reflecting the unwavering determination and endurance a mother exhibits over time. This necklace perfectly embodies the essence of motherhood, making it an ideal gift for any mother.

Visit Majesty Jewelers at A.C. Wathey Harbor Cruise Terminal, Point Blanche, Sint Maarten and 46 Front St, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten.

Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts in Petoskey, MI, USA

Co-Owned by Jennifer Shorter

As the CEO or “Chief Juggler” at Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts, I have been involved in the family business since I was in fourth grade, assisting my parents and grandmother after my grandfather passed away. My parents eventually purchased the business from my grandmother, and I continued to work at the store throughout grade school. I left to pursue a college education in marketing and product development in the office furniture industry, but after some time, I found myself missing the retail world and returned to help manage the store with my parents.

Which family members are involved in your work? What is the best part about working with them?

Throughout the years, every family member has contributed to the store in some form. Currently, I work alongside my husband, who holds the title of CAO (Chief Anything Officer), taking on any task needed! My daughter was also part of the store team during her high school and college years before she chose a career in law enforcement.

The best part about working with family is the constant opportunity to discuss retail and business, gaining various perspectives from different relatives. My mom excels at building displays, a skill I picked up by observing her over the years. She claims not to be a great teacher, but by paying close attention and adding my own creative twist, I’ve developed my own techniques for display building. It’s a creative challenge I truly enjoy.

Given the demanding nature of retail work, where do you prefer to go to unwind and recharge when you have a day off?

To relax, I love reading and painting. I often retreat to my “paint studio” (which is actually my dining room) to create acrylic impressionist art. When time allows for a getaway, Sault Sainte Marie – St. Marys River is my go-to destination. Otherwise, I cherish quick trips to the beach in Petoskey, where I enjoy strolling and searching for Petoskey Stones.

What is your favorite Artful Bracelets design for Mother’s Day?

I highly recommend the Boho Cuff Bracelet adorned with Petoskey stones. This unique stone, just like a mother’s love, is one-of-a-kind. This design will be available at Grandpa Shorter’s just in time for Mother’s Day shopping!

Visit Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts at 301 E Lake St, Petoskey, MI 49770.

Michael Gallagher Jewelers in Bear, DE, USA

Owned by Kathleen and Teresa Gallagher

Our family-owned jewelry store has been in operation for 80 years. I began working part-time 35 years ago and transitioned to a full-time role a decade ago. One of the biggest perks of working with my mom is getting to see her and my dad daily. We maintain a strong family atmosphere, which extends to our sales associates and customers. Our reputation is built on trust, integrity, and family traditions. When you walk into our store, you’re treated like family!

What are your main job responsibilities?

As the Marketing Manager, I handle our advertising, website, and social media accounts, in addition to being the primary buyer. I strive to find unique and unusual lines to introduce to our store. Many years ago, during a late Friday afternoon internet search, I discovered Artful Bracelets and met Holly. At that time, Artfulbracelets mainly offered Sandbeads. We placed our first order over the phone with Holly that same Friday night, and our journey together began!

How does your mom inspire you at work?

My mom has the strongest work ethic of anyone I know. Both at home and in-store, she works diligently. She is the creative force behind our store windows, turning them into showpieces for every upcoming holiday and season. At home, she is often found gardening, cooking gourmet meals, and handling all accounting and managerial responsibilities for the store. Her energy is boundless; she’s always on the go!

How does your mom positively impact those around her?

Our family is deeply involved in animal rescue. A portion of all our sales benefits local animal shelters and rescues. We help trap, spay/neuter, feed, and shelter feral cats almost daily. My mom also serves on multiple animal rescue boards. It’s incredibly fulfilling to support those who can’t speak for themselves.

What Artful Bracelets design do you recommend for a Mother’s Day gift? Any specific elements to consider?

The Full Heart Stationary Necklace with Turquoise Gradient is, in my opinion, the perfect Mother’s Day gift! Nothing symbolizes a mother’s love better than a heart. I would choose our “Delaware Beaches” sand, a blend of sand from Lewes, Rehoboth, Dewey, Bethany, and Fenwick Islands.

Visit Michael Gallagher Jewelers at 102 Fox Hunt Drive, Bear, DE 19701.

We’d love to hear from Artfulbracelets retailers, team members, or customers about which designs moms adore the most!

Tag us @ArtfulbraceletsJewelry or send in a photo!