Allison Love
Allison Love.
Allison Love
Allison's Love Fine Jewelry
Rock Hill, SC
How Long Have You Been A Business Owner and
What Kind Of Stores Have You Operated Over The Years?
I opened Allison Love's Fine Jewelry in Rock Hill in October 1999.
Prior to that, I worked for my parents’ business, Love's Jewelry.
I was ordering gold earrings and gift lines in 8th grade. I managed the
merchandising department while at Winthrop University and ultimately
managed a store in Pineville for two years. When my parents retired
in 1997, I decided to continue in the jewelry business but with new and unique
ideas to offer this traditionally stuffy profession. It's been 10
years and we're just getting started...with a second location, that is
(in Pineville).
What Are Some Of Your Businesses’ Toughest Challenges
These Days?
The toughest challenge is in finding the right people. I do not
enjoy "managing", so I must surround myself with
people who are motivated and self propelled, efficient and the best at
what they do. I have a unique relationship with everyone who works
with me. They are the fruits in my basket. It takes a team. My
favorite saying is "Y ou are the one with the slippers". I
feel responsible for the success of the team. This motivates me to create
common goals.
What Prompted You To Open A New Store When Many Retailers Are Closing
Stores?
I have never needed a "prompt". I inherited from my Dad a drive
that keeps me from ever being bored. I am always looking for new opportunities
and just happened to find one in late September. We signed a lease on
September 30 and began work October 1. In 30 days, we opened our second
location beside The Black Lion in Pineville. This store has "Allison
Love" written all over it....again, with the right people, you can
do anything!
How Are You Weathering This Economic Downturn?
I am a strong believer in the old lemons and lemonade theory. Positive
outlook and determination is key in any business....we offer things
like same day jewelry repair and consignment. Customer service must be
a priority. You have to find a niche and fill it to the best of your
ability.
How Do You Measure Your Success (professionally)?
I love what I do! There are challenges everyday and I do love
a challenge. The day I walk out the door and don't feel like I could
have stayed a little longer will be the day I am defeated. Every
customer who chooses Allison Love's Fine Jewelry is like a
mini ‘pat’ on the back for me....I work hard to earn their trust
and business. The best compliment is knowing that we
have been "chosen" as their place to shop for jewelry.
What Do You Enjoy Doing To Rejuvenate After A Long Day Or A Long
Week?
I have a creative side that comes alive when I get home at night....interior design
is one of my passions and I enjoy watching HGTV. Honestly,
I work on all my advertising from home, but I hate to sound like a workaholic. The
addition of a gift shop at our Rock Hill location is also an outlet for
my creativity. If you catch me working on a display or gift wrapping,
you know I am "rejuvenating". I cherish time
with my boyfriend, family and friends, a couple cool dogs
and a parrot.
What Would You Say To Other Women Who Want A Similar Career?
"
You have got to be crazy!" Really, it's a qualification.
For me, it's not just a career...it's my life.”
What Would You Say To Other Women Who Want A Similar Career?
Being a broker-in-charge can be a very satisfying career, filled
with opportunity for growth. I have learned so very much in my
years as a Broker. I have met so
many wonderful people and I have been given the opportunity to help in many ways.