Today we’d like to introduce you to Shona Germino
Hi Shona, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I have loved collecting rocks and minerals since I was 4 years old, picking up ordinary rocks that I thought were pretty. My mom used to take me to the local gem shows and I began to love to foster my love for gems. The science behind how these beautiful treasures are made, is fascinating to me. I have been making my own jewelry for 22 years! I occasionally take on commissions and make things for clients. I had been getting my supplies online, but I had gotten an order to make a ring for a friend and I needed to pick out the perfect Amethyst for the project. One day, I googled local bead and gem stores and I found a local place that seemed to have what I was looking for. That afternoon I decided to go visit the shop. When I arrived, I was overwhelmed by the selection this store had packed into a relatively small space. I headed to the high end gem selection and I found exactly what I was looking for! I figured while I was there I would pick up some stuff that way I was stocked up with supplies for the upcoming holidays. I spent at least an hour looking at the numerous treasures they had on display. I ended up filling up 3 trays of things I needed and wanted. I decided if I did not leave soon, I would end up buying the whole store. Thats where all this changed. The owners, were in their golden years. They were experienced makers and had been in the business for 30+ years. They opened the store in 2012 and ran the store together. When I finally got to the register to pay, the man told me they would be closing at the end of the year, as they wanted and need to retire due to health issues. I stopped for a moment and thought what a shame that they were going to close the shop just as I found a shop I could get all my supples. I told the man I was sad to see them close. The man chuckled and said “Do YOU want to buy a bead shop?” We both a had a good laugh and I paused. My brain began to process the idea of this. I answered him back and said “well maybe…?” I told him I would discuss it with my husband and get back with them. When I got home, I waited for my husband to be off the phone and told him what had transpired. He thought I was joking when I said “I think I bought a bead shop”? He laughed and I said, “no, I’m serious”! We talked it over and there was a lot of questions that needed answers. I called the owners back and set up a time to come talk with them. When we met with them, they were just a lovely couple. A few weeks of research went by and we we decided this was an opportunity we wanted to take. So, I began coming into the shop a few days a week to learn how to run the store/ Things were a bit overwhelming, as I am a creator not a business person. My husband is and expert in this stuff so I was glad he wanted to be apart of it. Long story long………….. we bought a bead store! We took ownership 1/15/25 and we are still in the process of getting organized. The previous owners still come by to help and will forever be apart of our family. They will always be the “owners” to me. This is very much a family business. I am honored to run this store along side my husband Justin, My mom Michele, my son Oliver and my Daughter in law Jaide. We make a great team and we all work hard to make this dream work. Jaide and I work side by side and have a bond that I am thankful for. We will be starting classes in March and will be starting our rewards program and doing contests and soe fun things!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think that with new changes and opportunities always come with challenges of some sort. The hardest part about all this is getting the business stuff dealt with, such as the lease, the city and state licenses and the IRS stuff. The other challenge was the learning curve around all the repair services they had previously offered. My experience was vast, but you quickly realize there is so much more to learn!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
The first rock I ever collected was a rock I picked up in a parking lot. It was the start of something significant in my life. I really started making things when I was 10. I loved to make stretch bracelets and earrings using rocks and gems I had collected. I specialize in creative design and how to bring those creations to life! My deep love for gems and precious metals are very much apart of my designs. I like using high end gems in my creations. In the past few years I have been learning new designs using wire wrapping techniques.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Support is always key in running a successful business. We have some fun things planned for the customers and community this year! We are looking for teachers for several jewelry making classes. Our goal is to offer an array of classes in all subjects and and all skill levels. People can reach out on our website for more info. www.oceanskybeads.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.oceanskybeads.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oceanskybeads
