Cindy Watt and Brenda Bourdon are continuing the tradition started by their grandfather Tony 85 years ago and expanded upon by their father Ralph when he moved the business to its current, much larger location.
The business has always been active in supporting various charities in Williams Lake as the Woodland family very much appreciates the support the community has given the business over the years. Some of the current customers are themselves fourth generation shoppers. “We feel proud to be able to support the community that has supported us over the years” Cindy Watt stated. “We also get to be a part of peoples lives, their celebrations of birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, births and graduations. That is very rewarding.”
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“We are very passionate about supporting our hospital as it is so important to all of the citizens of Williams Lake. Ten years ago I thought of raffling off a custom handmade ring and giving all of the proceeds to the hospital for equipment purchases. It has become an annual event, although the ring has become a pendant in the last few years. This year will bring the total raised to over $100,000” said Watt.
The store started with a watch repair bench, added crystal and silver, watches and fine jewellery. Now they have jewellery with quality gemstones from around the world, Canadian Diamonds and gold and many types of alternate metal rings and pendants.
Geoff Bourdon, Brenda’s son, studied at the Gemological Institute of America to learn how to do jewellery repairs and to hand fabricate beautiful custom jewellery pieces. He is now very busy with the custom side of the industry using either new materials or designing new, more currently styled jewellery from customer’s family heirlooms. Geoff and his wife Kendal plan to continue the tradition of the family owned and operated business when Cindy and Brenda retire.
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patrick.davies@wltribune.com
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