Bob LaPerla, Owner Of LaPerla Jewelers, West Hartford | Tips to avoid falling short on Valentine’s Day

Tips to avoid falling short on Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. How significant of a holiday is this for the jewelry business? Or do chocolates and flowers still rule the day?

Jewelry is always special and perfect, but for most, flowers and chocolates still rule. That’s why we offer a special that includes all three for a Valentine’s Day special.

OK, I’m a man buying jewelry for a spouse or significant other. What’s the typical mistake I make when selecting jewelry?

Not knowing what’s in her jewelry box! Look at the styles and types of jewelry she owns and wears. Know her favorite color and if she has a preference for earrings, rings, necklaces, or bracelets. A jeweler can choose something that coordinates without being too “matchy.” It’s best to complement not compete.

ADVERTISEMENT

What type of jewelry is popular at Valentine’s Day? Do necklaces rule the roost or are earrings the champs?

Hearts, hearts and more hearts, We have necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, and also pendants with hearts. And, let’s not forget diamonds which are always the perfect gift, too.

Is there anything new in jewelry that is going to surprise people come Feb. 14?

Affordability. Whether it’s Murano glass jewelry or something from a wide array of sterling jewelry, you will discover you don’t need to spend a lot to give a gift that lasts a lifetime.

ADVERTISEMENT

Do women buy their husbands and significant others much jewelry on Valentine’s Day, or is this still a male-dominated purchasing holiday?

Women do buy their husbands and significant others jewelry and it is a really special gift for men, too. Women are also having jewelry specially designed as gifts, too.

How is the jewelry business doing? A lot of chains seem to be going out of business. What makes independents like you do better, or at least stay in business?

I don’t know of any industry that isn’t facing rough times right now. Fortunately this is a business that celebrates life’s special occasions including birthdays, engagements, weddings, anniversaries, and births. As an independent jeweler, we offer greater services than many larger concerns and we treat our customers like family members. With our in-house goldsmith, we do extensive custom design work, restorations, lapidary services, jewelry repair, and cleaning, Of course, we also replace watch batteries!

ADVERTISEMENT

Do jewelry purchases tend to get more expensive the closer one gets to Valentine’s Day? For example, does a guy buying jewelry at 6 p.m. on Feb. 14 spend more than the guy who buys it today after reading this?

Only when he finds two filet steaks in the fridge and a receipt from Victoria’s Secret the day before.

 

Learn more about: