HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE
BY JENNIFER BRUGH
WESCHE JEWELERS CONTINUES A FAMILY LEGACY THAT BEGAN BEFORE ITS TIME. Jewelry is Family
L eaving a legacy isn’t just about carving out a path of your own; it’s also about leaving your mark on the world — something that says you were here. That is precisely what Jim and June Wesche did when they opened the doors to the first Wesche Jewelers location over 45 years ago. Now, Holly Wesche, the oldest Wesche daughter, is carrying on that legacy, continuing the path her family started while carving out a new one of her own. A FAMILY AFFAIR To know your family history is one thing. But to continue living it is another story, entirely. For Holly, it all comes so naturally, you might even say it’s in her blood. “At family
gatherings while growing up, there were naturally always discussions about the jewelry business,” Holly says. “Most importantly, there were lots of stories about relationships with clients and the important role the gift of jewelry had played in their life. These stories made an impression on me.” On her father’s side, Holly’s grandparents owned and operated Wesche’s Antiques in Orlando for 40 years. Here, Hank and Charlotte Wesche sold estate and antique jewelry, furniture, and other fine accessories. On her mother’s side, Holly’s great-aunt and uncle, Herb and June Underwood, founded Underwood Jewelers in Jacksonville, FL. It was here that Holly’s mother, June, worked for several years as a young woman, developing a deep love for jewelry and the smile it brought to every face. Holly’s maternal grandparents,
Donald and Helen Woods, also worked at Underwood Jewelers, further adding to the family atmosphere clients came to enjoy and can still feel to this day. Eventually, Holly’s father, Jim Wesche, joined Underwood Jewelers, taking on various roles and responsibilities. Throughout his 13 years with the Underwoods, Jim did everything from running errands to selling jewelry to eventually running the company. By the time he was named Vice President, Jim was overseeing daily operations for seven stores and seeing to the success of 175 employees — Knowledge and experience he took with him as he and June ventured out on their own. THOSE EARLY YEARS On October 27, 1977, Jim and June purchased their first storefront in a strip center along the beachside of Melbourne, FL. Here, Wesche Jewelers was born. But like anything in life, new beginnings rarely come without growing pains. And for a short time, the Wesche’s were doubtful their new adventure would succeed. Yet, thanks to the dedication and hard work of loyal employees, Wesche Jewelers survived and soon began to thrive.
8 WESCHE JEWELERS MAGAZINE
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