CEO/Founder
At the age of eight, I discovered my passion for jewellery when my father brought home an extra boxes of chandelier crystals from his business. Watching him link the crystals together using gold rings and wires for various intricate designs peaked my interest. I copied his skills later myself when I snuck into the box of crystals.
My goal was to make myself as adorned as a chandelier; and so, my first jewellery set was born. Using heart shaped crystals and little wires shaped like staples, I created earrings, a bracelet, and a necklace.
Later I began taking apart my mother’s old accessories and recycling them into brand new designs while adding some of my father’s left-over crystals. These remodelled pieces were given as gifts to my friends at school. Throughout high school and university, I became skilled enough that I was asked by many to repair their jewellery as well as invited to sell some of my original designs at a friend’s boutique.
In June 1997, I moved to Guelph, Ontario with my husband. I knew no one and did not have a job, but I did have my father’s chandelier crystals. While exploring the little town, I came across a small store that sold beads, stones, chains, and other little treasures. It felt as though I had struck gold. I purchased my first tool kit and materials from there and was inspired to get going.
As I got to know the community better my first order came that winter. A custom gold-plated necklace made with solid white glass beads.
Fast forward moving to Edmonton, Alberta, I started off with showcases at home which lead to my first presentation at the University of Alberta Christmas show in 2007. This led me to registering my business and designs as GiGi Jewellery.
One of my biggest achievements along this journey was in 2017. On behalf of GiGi Jewellery I donated a freshwater pearl and gold-plated necklace where the piece was featured in a silent auction. All the proceeds went to the SOS Children’s Villages Canada. Seeing how successful it was, I was motivated to continue to seek more opportunities to continue to create in order to bring joy to others.
In 2024, I earned my diploma in Self-Employment Management, which significantly boosted my business. It opened many doors, providing numerous networking opportunities through my coaching training and connections with colleagues from the course. I had the chance to host open days every weekend at a high-end clothing stores and secured a consignment deal at a store on White Ave in Edmonton. Additionally, I was honored to have my jewellery design featured in a silent auction for the Strathcona Shelter Society, supporting a wonderful cause.
I don’t plan on slowing down anytime soon.
Exponentially, my love for jewellery design, interest in materials and craftsmanship continues to grow; and I am excited for the world to watch my progress.