The Big Hearts Behind Small Business Saturday (and all year round, too)!

Christmas came early for me and I am feeling extra gratitude this Thanksgiving weekend! Rounding out a very challenging year, I was struck with a bit of luck, really I see it more as a blessing. I won a beautiful Officina Bernardi Pearl necklace from Morrell Jewelry in Boerne. It was one of the door prizes from Diva Night in the Hill Country town where business owners stay open late to host a shopping event for tiara and boa-wearing patrons. The only reason I was there on that particular cold, rainy night was my mother wanted to go. She had been through so much recovering from a stroke and major cancer surgery since the summer and Diva Night was a respite from the everyday struggles of this life-altering event.

This week, as I picked up the necklace, I learned the story behind the oldest established jewelry store in Boerne. It is one of determination, hard work, sacrifice and good will. Despite monumental challenges that would defeat many entrepreneurs, there is a sense of enduring optimism, gratitude and a special tradition of giving back through to the community through donations, raffle prizes and appreciation events for loyal customers. David Morrell started the business as mainly a jewelry and watch repair shop in 1991. In 2012, then long-time employee Jeanette Alcazar took over and transformed the business into a full service jewelry store offering not only repairs, but unique and couture jewelry from around the world.

Looking at the beautiful showroom now, one would never know the struggles. The Memorial Day Flood of 2015 filled the original location on Blanco Road with a foot of water. Alcazar credits the support of customers and family for keeping Morrell’s afloat in a temporary warehouse for months while the flood damage could be repaired. Optimistically, Jeanette saw this catastrophe as a sign to take a leap of faith needed to move the store to its current location. While refurbishing an old house into what is now the charming showroom, another hardship! Burglars wiped out the precious inventory bringing about another devastating and crippling loss. Buoyed by the backing of loyal employees, generous vendors and the support of the Boerne community, Jeanette and the Morrell family did not give up!

That spirit has allowed them to expand while striving to maintain the original allure of the store’s modest beginnings and the values of honesty, quality and a small town customer service approach. Jeanette is thankful for those who have been there for her and that is why she always gives back. She tells me she appreciates and treasures the hardworking, loyal and committed employees and family who have remained with the company through it all including her months-long recuperation from three recent spinal surgeries! Jeanette’s commitment to the community is visible in her actions and how she treats her customers with a smile and care! I felt it first hand and wanted to share my experience with you.

So when you walk into the doors of a locally-owned retailer this holiday season, remember the people who make our communities better by providing a service or product close to our homes. It takes a great deal of hard work, determination, sacrifice and lots of heart to keep their doors open and ready for us!

By the way, I am giving my mother the necklace for Christmas because having her and the rest of my family is the only gift I need!

Morrell Jewelry is located at 134 East Bandera In Boerne, Texas about a 30 minutes drive from San Antonio. Jeanette has been married for more than 30 years to her husband, Mark. They have two daughters: Victoria, who is at the University of Massachusetts earning her Doctoral degree, and Isabella, who is studying at New Mexico State University.

About the Author:

Leslie Bohl is the owner of Leslie Bohl Media. She provides many services including media coaching, video storytelling, writing, emceeing and voice over work. Leslie is channeling her extensive experience of 25 Plus years as a television news anchor, reporter and lifestyle show host into helping business professionals feel and look their best in front of a camera. You will find her blog “Living Your Best Life with Leslie” on www.LeslieBohl.net