Full Circle: Ooh! Aah! Jewelry
Located in the Heart of Nob Hill in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Ooh! Aah! Jewelry has been a local favorite since 1988. Its customer service, relaxed comfortable setting and its selection have been key elements to the store’s success.
Ooh! Aah! has perfected the art of selecting jewelry by continuously keeping up with current trends in design. Known for affordable luxury, the store specializes in custom design and bridal concepts for both men and women.
We caught up with owner Mary Vigil to learn more about how they’ve been navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic, how they’ve stayed connected with their customers and more.
What is your background in the jewelry industry and how did you get your start?
I got my start in the jewelry business 32 years ago while on leave of absence from my position as a high school business education teacher. I started selling jewelry for a friend who was importing sterling silver jewelry from Taxco, Mexico. I taught eleven years and had no intention of going into the jewelry business. It soon became a passion when I started attending jewelry shows. I was hooked!
How would you describe your store using only three words?
Local, inviting, friendly.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your business and, from your perspective, the jewelry industry?
My business has definitely been impacted. Since the initial shutdown in March, each month has been different. I believe that the jewelry industry has been impacted as well. Everyone has had to make adjustments. We have had to take it one step at a time. Flexibility and careful planning has been key to keeping the business moving forward. We were able to bring all employees back and working their usual schedule on June 1 of this year. We are open 7 days a week.
Our website has definitely been our friend. We have seen an increase of online sales. We have also seen an increased demand for custom jewelry. With customers staying at home, we have found that many are being creative and want to design or re-design a piece of jewelry.
How have you been continuing to connect with your customers during times of social distancing, and how has the reopening of the economy and stores gone for you so far?
We did not miss a beat in connecting with our customers. Our on-line sales grew immediately. We monitor our website daily. We reached out to our customers through Instagram and Facebook. We also connected with them through email.
Are there any particular stones, hues, or styles you are partial to and prefer to carry more of in the store?
We have always carried a variety of jewelry and stones at Ooh! Aah! Jewelry. We are known for the place to go to for gifts. We continue to expand our bridal, custom, gold and diamond selections.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from your business?
The biggest lesson that I have learned from my business is that you never stop learning. Keeping up with trends is key.
What is one piece of advice you would give someone who is just starting out in the industry?
The one piece of advice that I have for someone starting out in business is to keep an open mind and allow yourself to look beyond just your tastes and preferences.
What is your favorite JCK memory?
My favorite JCK memory was the first JCK show that I attended, I was like a kid in a candy store! I enjoy walking through the entire show and spotting new trends.
Save the date for the JCK 2021 Show, taking place June 4-7, 2021 at the Sands Expo & The Venetian! Pre-register today.
