Category Archives: Life

A Weekend of Matrimony & Mother’s Day

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Ladies {and ahem, gents} Mother’s Day is just around the corner! Good thing because I always need a little extra love to get through these last few weeks of school. #wevegotthis

This year Mother’s Day is going to be extra special for our family because my momma is getting married! On Friday, I’ll be stepping away to celebrate my mom and her new husband, Eddie. On Saturday, after the lovebirds have said “I do”, I’ll be back in the store ready for all of your hubbies and kiddos as they set out to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift.

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If you’re not exactly sure what to ask for this year, I’ve got a couple of ideas {wink, wink}. First of all, you have to make your way to Club 925 to check out our latest collection from John Hardy. We’re in love with these pieces and know that you will be too!

One thing that weighs over my head when I buy new clothes, jewelry, and other accessories is the impact on the environment. Well my friends, this collection is handmade in Bali and is designed with the eco-conscious in mind. Their bamboo line plants new bamboo trees with every single purchase. On top of that they offer a work-from-home program for their artisans which allows women to be home with their children while also earning additional income for their families. What could be more perfect for Mother’s Day than a gift that gives back to another Mom?!

Along with all of the amazing bling in our showcases we’ll also have Megan from Daisy Janes Flower Truck here! If you’ve yet to catch this adorable little truck driving around town you’ll definitely want to swing by. Megan will be here starting at 10AM and will stick around until the flowers are gone. Tell your hubby he’ll get a free bouquet with his jewelry purchase! Flowers will also be available separately as well.

Whether you have big plans, or just something relaxing with your main squeeze I hope you all have an amazing Mother’s Day! I’ll be looking for all of your hubbies in the store on Saturday and am prepared to drop some major hints.

Xo

Tina

Donate Your Wedding Dress For A Cause

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Ladies! How many of you have your wedding dress hanging deep in your closet because you have no idea what else to do with it. Giving it away to another bride doesn’t feel right. Nor does properly preserving it for generations to come. So, there it sits …

Well, what if you could donate it to a good cause?

April 23rd through April 27th Yelton Fine Jewelers is partnering with Great Friends Working Cooperatively to collect wedding dresses. Your donations will be transformed into little Angel Gowns for babies that don’t leave the hospital, providing much needed comfort for bereaved families. In appreciation for your support Yelton’s will be providing a $25 gift card to all donors*.

I’ve already brought my dress and am looking for others to join me. Like my friend Jacky {below} who had been holding on to her dress for thirty-five years!

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If you haven’t heard of Great Friends Working Cooperatively, be sure to check them out. This amazing organization brings women together to help make positive change in the greater Cincinnati area. The Angel Gown Project is just one example. If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities or charities to get involved with they can help you connect the dots!

So many ways to give back! Start by reaching in the back of your closet and donating your treasured gown. As a mother losing a little one is unfathomable and my hope is that these dresses will provide at least a little bit of light for the families that are struggling.

*Only one per customer. Valid June 1, 2019 through June 30, 2019. Some exclusions apply see store for details.

Looking Back At 2018

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They always say to focus on what’s in front of you instead of looking back. To some extent I get it, but at the close of each year I always appreciate the opportunity to reflect on the previous 365 days. To celebrate the good times, recognize the changes, and the realize the growth.

As I gaze back at 2018 I have to say family was a huge theme. The motto that we’ve been adopting is “work hard, play harder” and as a result we have some amazing new memories together. The highlight was our vacation to Maui which had been a dream for a while. From snorkeling, to whale watching, to hiking Diamondhead we did it all! As the week went on every day seemed to get even better. Not just because of where we were, but because we were all there together.

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On the business side of the house Mark and I learned A LOT this year. Even after thirty years in the jewelry industry we’re constantly humbled by how much there is to know and how quickly things progress. One of our major milestones this year was teaming up with a group of 10 other jewelry stores nationwide to implement best practices. The goal … to be the best store in Cincinnati. From revamping our product lines to developing new marketing campaigns we put a lot of energy into Yelton Fine Jewelers this year. We hope that our customers {ahem, you} enjoy what they’ve seen so far!!

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In summary, I have to say 2018 was a huge growth period for myself, my family, and the business. I love to see that we’re constantly learning – how to be better parents, how to manage the store more efficiently, how to listen better, how to be good community members, on and on. As we march towards 2019 I’m so grateful to have these experiences to look back upon. They’ll serve as a great foundation for what’s to come.

Happy New Year everyone. Wishing you the best in 2019, and beyond.

 

Door Number Two, A New Approach To The Holidays

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Happy Thanksgiving everyone! There’s no denying it now … the holidays are upon us. If you’re a bit of a Type A, like me, you’re likely feeling the pressure. Out of nowhere my breezy fall has turned into a full-on marathon. I’ve found myself up at night stressing about planning holiday get togethers. My “spare time” is now 100% consumed with checking off wish lists. Not to mention the pressure of managing a retail store at this time of year {#icantevengothere}.

I know, I know. Tis the season of magic, thanks, and giving. But in order to get there it seems like there’s this hurdle of stress to jump over. Every. Single. Year. Anyone willing to validate me here?

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As I stare the holidays straight in the face, I feel like I have two options. Behind door number one I could let my overachieving nature get the best of me. I could stay up at night fixating on every single detail. I could make this holiday 100% magical for everyone I love, but sacrifice my own livelihood along the way. I could slap on that smiling face, but feel oh-so-exhausted inside.

I think we can all agree that door number one feels a bit less than ideal. Right?!

So, this year I’m choosing door number two. I’m not going to give up on spreading the cheer, but with every act I’m going to ensure that I’m also being kind to myself. I’m going to do my best to embrace those holiday imperfections, laughing at them instead of worrying about how I could have made it “better”. I’m going to smile, genuinely, because this year I’m going to set better boundaries {including my getting my nightly Zzzzs}.

It all starts today, on Thanksgiving. And, I’m happy to report that so far my new holiday strategy is going well.

This morning I woke up and chose NOT to rush into the kitchen. I enjoyed time with my boys at a slower pace and accepted the fact that dinner will be served eventually. From there decided to leave that pile of laundry by the stairwell and be present instead {it’s amazing how much you miss when you’re neurotically cleaning all of the time}. Now, as I prepare to turn in for the night I’m leaving those thoughts of Black Friday in the future. Instead, I’m appreciating the opportunity to reflect on a great day, my new perspective, and all of the things that I am grateful for.

Because it’s so much.

Xo

Tina

Family First

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This week as I sat at my computer to write my regular blog post no words would come. As time continued to pass the screen remained blank.

You see there has been a lot weighing on my heart lately. Based on recent events in our community it doesn’t feel right to sit here and talk about jewelry trends, my favorite designers, or what’s coming up at the store. Because, the truth of the matter is … life is about so much more.

Today my friends I’m not here to talk about bling. I’m here to remind you all of the larger picture. To encourage you to always put family first.

Family first.

That was the title of a recent e-mail that I received from someone I respect immensely. In that e-mail, they explained that they would be stepping away from the grind for a while. Instead they would be shifting their energy to help their family in a time of need.

Since I received that e-mail two other events have occurred within our Lakota/West Chester community that have caused me to pause. First, a 13-year-old boy was hit by a pitch during a baseball game. This poor boy has faced several challenges since the incident and has only recently made his way back home. Without the support of his family and his community I’m not sure this would have been possible.

Family first.

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Following this event, a high school Lacrosse player collapsed after a game. What they suspected was heat stroke actually turned out to be a rare brain disorder. Within hours of the game our community came together to support the family and stand behind the child. It’s been remarkable to witness.

Family First.

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While these are members of my community I don’t personally know either of these families. What I do know is that the theme in these stories is something we all need to give a little more attention too. With a 14-year-old baseball player an 11-year-old lacrosse player at home, I’ve been reminded that life is precious. Every moment counts.

Summer is here. Rather than getting hung up on the things that don’t really matter, enjoy the moments you have with your family. Stay up a bit later. Eat the ice cream. Hug your kids every night and remind them how much you love them. Whether they show it or not, they need to hear it as much as you can say it!

Every cloud has a silver lining and I am proud to be part of this community that has pulled together to support both the Edrington & Stratman Families.  Keep the prayers and support coming! And remember … family first.

xo

Yelton Family Summer Bucket List

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It’s hard to believe that summer has officially arrived. One thing is for sure … I’m ready to celebrate! As a family, it’s going to be a busy few months. There will be fun things like family vacations, sports tournaments, and urban date nights. And then, I have some other goals that I’m not sure the boys will love. You know like getting the house clean {wink}. It’s all about balance, right?

In order to keep us accountable I’ve jotted it all down. What’s on the 2018 Yelton Family Summer Bucket List, you ask? Well, here it is …

5. Organize, Organize, Organize

Before we get to those good times we need to roll up our sleeves up and do a little bit of work. We’ve been in this home for three years now and already I can feel the walls closing in on me. The clutter! Ahh! From the closets, to the garage, and everywhere in between it’s time to clean, purge, and organize. My boys are going to love me.

4. Visit Kings Island

After a bit of a hiatus our boys have secured their season passes to Kings Island again, so you’ll be able to find us there on the regular. I’ll admit that I’m not a HUGE of the rides, but I’ll play along in the name of family time. Plus, I do really enjoy the blue ice cream and late-night fireworks. Can you blame a girl?

3. Date Nights

Now that school is out, there’s no need for us to set our alarms for the crack of dawn. You know what that means? More date nights! Mark and I love checking out new restaurants as well as dining at our old favorites. From there we usually catch a movie or post up at a local brewery. Do you have any spots you would recommend for the summer? I’m all ears!

2. Lake Time

While we do own a lake house, sometimes it feels like we never have time to get there! Well my friends this summer it’s right near the top of our summer bucket list and I’m not going to let anything get in the way of that. I can’t wait to spend time in the sun, on the boat, and simply relaxing away from the hustle and bustle of normal life. Ahhh.

1. Have Fun!

Above all, I want everyone to have fun! To me that means that everyone’s interests are taken into consideration, we make time for each other, and we walk away from the summer with new memories. After all this season is only a few short months. We have to enjoy it while we can!

So, what’s on your bucket list? Did I miss anything on ours? We’re always open to suggestions, especially when it comes to summer fun! Whatever you end up doing I hope you have an amazing couple of months. Happy summer everyone!

Another School Year Comes To An End

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Well, I can’t believe it, but another school year is coming to an end. And, I am over here jumping for joy! No more homework, no more projects, and see you later to those early mornings. Whether your child is in pre-school or high school, if you’re a parent, you know exactly what I’m talking about. Sighs of relief all around.

Before we jump fully into summer mode I walk to congratulate two graduates in our family. First, our son Ty who will be putting his middle school years behind him and preparing to enter big ol’ high school in the fall. I’m still in shock. Am I really ready for this? Today we’ll celebrate his 8th grade graduation at a Passages ceremony. I’ll be bringing all of the Kleenex for this one.

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We also have a high school graduate in the family this year! My nephew Gage will be graduating from Lakota West with plans to attend the University of Cincinnati to study engineering. You may recognize him as he’s quite the social butterfly {like his aunt} and has also put in plenty of time at the jewelry store. He even wore Yelton purple to prom this year. Talk about super fan!

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Congratulations to Ty, Gage, and all of the other graduates out there! Whether it’s a milestone year for your family, or just another school year coming to a close, enjoy it! Get out there and soak up those summer vibes. Because, as we all know, it will be gone before we know it.

To My Ladies

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International Women’s Day was on March 8th and I want to tribute this blog to a handful of females that inspire me. Ahem, the women of Yelton Fine Jewelers! Not only are they my coworkers, but also my friends, my support system, and my mentors. I couldn’t imagine a day without them, and here’s why …

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JoAnn

What can I say?! I sure lucked out in the Mother in Law department. After being married to her son and working with her for nearly two decades she is still at the top of my list. One thing is for sure, this woman is the one who keeps the Yelton family together! For JoAnn family always comes first, which says a lot given how much she cares about the business. When you walk into the store you can tell that she’s doing what she loves. Her passion is contagious and it’s why all of our customers adore her. Fun fact: I married JoAnn and her husband, John Arnold, on November 1, 2016.

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Heather

If you know Heather, chances are you love her as much as we do! When Mark and I started dating, Heather was one of the first people that I met through the store. She worked with us for five years in the past, took a sabbatical, and then thankfully made her way back to the team. She has three amazing children and does an amazing job balancing work and family. She keeps us together on the daily and goes out of her way to ensure that nothing ruffles our feathers! Fun fact: Mark and I went traveled all the way to Vegas for Heather and Scott’s wedding only to find out that Scott gave us the wrong dates. We arrived a day late, but still enjoyed celebrating with them.

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Megan

Megan has been with us for two years now and if you have yet to meet here, be sure to stop in and say hello.  Along with her passion for jewelry, Megan has an amazing spirit and a smile that could turn anyone’s day around. She is always putting others first, which translates in so many ways – like when she brings donuts to the store on Saturday mornings {#yum}! Megan and her husband have another business in Blue Ash so when she’s not at the store, you can find her there! Fun fact: Megan makes an AMAZING Rum Punch and she loves glitter!

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Gina

Most people don’t see Gina around the store because she’s always busy behind the scenes, juggling all of our hopes and dreams. In my eyes, she’s the glue that holds Yelton Fine Jewelers together. Outside of work Gina has two amazing kiddos that go to Lakota West. I actually refer to them as my “adopted children” because we’re all so close. Typically, if Mark and I are out and about, we’re with Gina and her husband. You know on those off nights when none of our kids have a sporting event scheduled. Fun fact: Gina goes to Cycle Bar at 5AM and does a 21-day juice fast every January! 

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Lindsey

Lindsey is working with us part time while her kids are still home. We love having her around! She has a true passion for jewelry, so much so that she typically spends her paycheck in the store before she even makes it out the door. Can’t blame her! She was a teacher in her past life and now enjoys using those skills to educate her own children. She loves to sell and appreciates the opportunity to take breaks from her tough job as a mom! Fun fact: Lindsey’s family owns a jewelry store in Chicago.

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Lynette

While it’s hard to believe how quickly time flies, Lynette has been with us for eleven years now! As our goldsmith, she leads the charge within our successful repair department and is also to credit for most of our custom jewelry pieces. She is married and has an amazing family comprised of four-legged kiddos. Lynette grew up in Cincinnati where she rode horses and dominated as a competitive gymnast. Fun fact:: Lynette goes to ComiCon every year and is a huge hockey fan.

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Lesley

Lesley has been at the store for five, maybe six years. I can’t keep it straight, but I do know that she’s amazing asset to our team. She started as a shop assistant and has furthered her education to become a Goldsmith. Working alongside Lynette day in and day out, she manages our repair orders and also takes care of all of our appraisals! When she’s not at work she enjoys spending time with her favorite feline, and also helps run her family’s business. Fun fact: Lesley and Lynette are best friends and Lesley loves to do Karaoke.

Join me in honoring this amazing group of women. And, to all of the other ladies out there, happy International Women’s Month. You’re awesome. Never forget that.

Good Vibes For The Long Weekend

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Hold on just a little bit longer, the holiday weekend is almost here! Do you have anything fun planned? For our family Labor Day weekend is a great way to reconnect after the busy summer months. We try to knock off any last adventures, we enjoy the opportunity to relax, and we also reserve plenty of time to celebrate!

You see, for the Yelton’s September is much more than getting back to school and reorganizing … it’s a big ol’ birthday month. Mark kicks it off on September 3rd, I follow on September 6th, and Trent is just behind us on September 12th. The long weekend is a great way to see that we all get our fair share of birthday treats and candles.

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Whatever you have planned for Labor Day, I’m sending good vibes in your direction! If you see my birthday boys around in the next couple of weeks, give them a high five. I guess I wouldn’t to say no to encouragement as I continue to age gracefully as well {wink}.

 

Show Us Your Heart Of Gold

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As some of you know promoting healthy hearts is a cause that’s near and dear to me. When I lost my father to heart disease in 2012 it was a wake up call. One of those moments where you realize, ah ha, our time on this earth is in fact limited. Our bodies our one of our greatest assets. And, these people we surround ourselves by? We should tell them that we love them … every day.

If you too feel passionate about supporting the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association, stop by Yelton Fine Jewelers this month and show us your heart of gold. The details go a little something like this …

We appreciate your support as we work to put together a {hopefully sizeable} donation for these two organizations. Whether or not you round up your transactions, I do beg all of you to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of a heart attack and stroke in case of an event. Here, I’ll make it easy one you …

  • Heart attack symptoms: Chest pains, discomfort in the upper body, shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea, lightheadedness.
  • Stroke symptoms: Sudden changes including numbness or weakness especially on one side, confusion, difficulty speaking, trouble seeing, severe headache with no known cause.

If you, or someone you love is experience any symptoms call 9-1-1, immediately. You could save a life.

xo