For over 83 years, jewelry has been a passion for the Schreibman family. Chad and David Schreibman are third generation owners of Alson Jewelers. As brothers and partners, they are at the helm of the store which has been a fixture in the Cleveland area for decades. Read on and get to know the owners behind Alson Jewelers.
What is your earliest memory of working in the family business?
Chad ~ I have so many, but a few stand out. I remember sitting at our master jeweler’s bench on his day off and drilling holes on the bench. Back in the 70’s, we had ashtrays on the top of each case and it was my job to gather all the dirty ash trays and clean each one.
David ~ When I was 10 years old, I would go to work with my dad on Saturdays and just watch what he did. My favorite part of the day was lunch and going to Slyman’s Deli. My dad and I would always split our sandwiches. He would get a tuna, I would get a corned beef and we both would have half of each sandwich.
What is your favorite thing about owning a jewelry store?
Chad ~ Being able to be a part of so many of our client’s special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, engagement or just because, our job is to put a smile on people’s faces. What could be better?
David ~ Working together with my dad and brother and celebrating happy occasions with our clients every day.
What was the best advice you received from your father and grandfather?
- Chad and David with their grandfather Alvin Schreibman, circa 1983.
Chad ~ Lose the battle, but win the war. Do whatever is necessary to make the client happy. You can have the best location, fill the cases with the prettiest jewelry, have a great marketing plan and well-trained staff; but if you don’t listen to your clients and treat them with the respect they deserve, they will find another place to do business.
David ~ There were two pieces of advice:
1. Surround yourself with good people. You can’t do it alone.
2. Follow through. Whether it is with clients or associates, get back to people with an answer. Sometimes it may not be the answer they want to hear, but they will appreciate the follow through.
What jewelry trend are you loving this season?
Chad ~ I love the combination of diamonds and rose gold. It’s such a warm look that can be worn casual or dressy.
David ~ I’m really loving the black & white trend we’re seeing in jewelry. From darkened metals set with diamonds to black and white diamond jewelry, black & white is a great fashion look.
What three pieces do you think every woman should have in her jewelry wardrobe?
Chad ~ Diamond stud earrings, a simple necklace that can be worn with jeans or a cocktail dress and a watch that is an extension of her personality.
David ~ Diamond hoop earrings, stacked bangle bracelets and an oversized watch.
Favorite vacation spot?
Chad ~ Anywhere on a mountain skiing in powder.
David ~ Anywhere on a ski slope or beach as long as I’m with my wife and three boys.
What watch are you wearing right now?
Chad ~Rolex Sky Dweller in Everose on a chocolate-brown alligator strap.
David ~ Cartier Calibre on a stainless steel bracelet.
Favorite song on your i-Pod?
Chad ~ Anything by Dave Matthews
David ~ Bruce Springsteen is a favorite.
Best meal and where?
Chad ~ Sounds corny, but any dinner my wife makes sitting around our kitchen table with our kids!
David ~ I’m a meat and potatoes guy, but the best meal I’ve had has to be the filet and garlic mashed potatoes at Mastro’s Ocean Club in Newport Beach, California.
If you could have a super-power, what would it be?
Chad ~ Invisible. I would love to be in a room with mega super-star athletes while they are negotiating a contract with agents and the team owner.
David ~ I’m with Chad on that one! I would also like the ability to see into the future.
I hear what you say about the ash trays. I remember them as a child and I still see them in some of the shops here in The Jewelry District in Los Angeles.