It’s Small Business Week here on myFM, sponsored by the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc!
A family business in Forest has been helping customers mark special occasions for more than 150 years, with five generations carrying on the tradition.
Van Valkenburg & Sons Jewelers was founded by Glenn Van Valkenburg’s great-great-grandfather. Glen is now the fifth generation to run the business, which has been at its current location since 1910.
Van Valkenburg says the business has been part of his life since he was a child, but he did not always plan to become a jeweller.
Running a business in a small town comes with challenges, Van Valkenburg says. With a smaller customer base, owners need to find creative ways to keep their businesses going.
Van Valkenburg says his staff have also played an important role in the business, with some employees staying for 20, 30 or even 40 years.
Being part of Forest’s downtown is another important part of owning the store. Van Valkenburg says the business has become an anchor in the community, and he hopes it can continue to be part of the downtown for years to come.
One of the most rewarding parts of the job, he says, is the variety. From working with customers on special occasions to creating promotions and managing the business’s social media, there is always something different to do.
For anyone thinking about starting a small business, Van Valkenburg has some advice.
After more than 150 years, Van Valkenburg & Sons Jewelers remains a family business with deep roots in Forest, built on generations of work and relationships with customers.
Written by: K. Milhomens
