Today’s Notable Young Professional is Laura Aline co-owner Laura Zakem (pictured right), whose downtown Montreal boutique brings an innovative flare to the jewelry market. What was the inspiration behind her career route? Find out in today’s profile…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
We are Canada’s largest genuine pearl retailer located in the heart of downtown Montreal. We are a mother-daughter partnership catering to each client’s vision in-house all while bringing an innovative flare to the jewelry market.
Our philosophy? Creating versatile jewelry that can be worn daily with no limitations!
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
Being a fourth generation jeweler I have always been exposed to talented artists. Growing up, I loved and appreciated fine jewelry and could not wait to graduate university and begin getting involved in our family’s heritage. My mother/partner, a very talented jewelry designer who is recognized worldwide, is my biggest inspiration and mentor. She has taught me the tricks of the trade and continues to coach me. I have so many supportive family members surround me, which has allowed me to pursue my passion in the jewelry business. The launch of Laura Aline was a natural next step to expose our Montreal clientele to contemporary pearl and gemstone designs.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Even after all this time, I still get so excited when our clients react with great enthusiasm to our pieces. It is the most gratifying feeling! We travel to the most beautiful parts in the world to source pearls and gemstones that will wow our clients. We want our clients to enjoy wearing their jewelry on a daily basis rather than for special occasions. To this day, my happy customers are still the best part of my day.
The challenging part of this is to continuously create jewelry that remains unique and wearable. A challenge we accept with pleasure!
Where do you see your business going in five years?
We will be celebrating Laura Aline’s third year anniversary in November, which we are very proud to announce. We have big plans for the future and definitely plan on expanding our business abroad.
What does success look like to you?
Success is when you know you have a good product and you stand behind it.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
One of the most memorable moments since the opening of Laura Aline has to be when I was witness to the purchase of a pair of earrings bought at our store for a Queen, whose name I am not at liberty to disclose. It was a very humbling experience knowing that out of all the jewelers in the city, she sought out our services and left with a one-of-a-kind Laura Aline creation!
Do you have advice for young professionals?
My biggest piece of advice to my fellow young professionals is to always stay grounded and focused. Avoid being impulsive and make realistic goals.
Do you support charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
We are avid supporters of many charities in Montreal. A few in particular that we hold close to our hearts are the Table of Hope, the Starlight foundation, the Farah Foundation and the Guzzo Environment-Cancer Research Chair of the Université de Montreal.
What is Notable to you?
Notable to me is a great opportunity for young professionals to share their knowledge and experience about their triumphs and failures.
Blackberry, iPhone or other?
Definitely iPhone!
How do you keep active, energetic, and vibrant?
I keep active by exercising daily and surrounding myself with positive people!