Our Story
Where We Started
If you had told us in 1996 that we would own a jewelry store, we would have laughed out loud. We didn’t like jewelry stores, knew nothing about retail, and Karen was teaching children with learning and behavior disorders. Then things changed.
Karen wanted a break from teaching and found she had a talent for creating jewelry. She enlisted a friend and started doing jewelry trunk shows and selling jewelry out of the house.
After creating a successful business that outgrew the house, it was time to take the next step.
In 2005, we rented 1,800 square feet of space in a strip mall along a busy shopping corridor and
opened K.Hollis Jewelers. Our customers and community embraced our little idea; we added
jewelers, appraisers, staff, higher-end jewelry, and new jewelry lines. We listened to people's wants, partnered with other designers and vendors, and were active in our communities. We became part of the fabric of our local business community and the business grew every year regardless of economic conditions.
Our Journey
In 2012, we expanded the size of the store to 4,100 square feet by leasing space next to us, tearing down walls, and adding a wine bar where we could hold small events. We continued to thrive in the new space and were recognized year after year as one of the best jewelry stores in suburban Chicago.
Our growth plan included acquiring our own building, and the plan became a reality in 2022 when we purchased a 10,000-square-foot building that was originally a Golden Corral Buffet restaurant. The transformation of a restaurant to retail was a great experience and gave us an opportunity to reimagine our business.
So in September 2022, K.Hollis Jewelers became K.Hollis Jewelers, Boutique & Wine Bar where
we expanded our engagement, diamond, repair, custom services, jewelry selection, event space, etc. and added a woman’s boutique that carries unique, comfortable, versatile clothing and accessories. We like to say that K. Hollis Jewelers, Boutique & Wine Bar is “Where Fun Meets Fine.”
Who We Are
Conceptually, everything we do is about enhancing the customer experience, bringing a unique shopping destination to our area, and offering products and services our customers enthusiastically tell others about.
The wine bar and event space regularly bring new customers to our store and allow us to host charitable and networking events; social events with live music, games, and jewelry making; private parties, and a gathering place for our customers to enjoy while they shop. The boutique is proving to be a great addition to our store where women shop with friends, enjoy a glass of wine and pair their new clothing with beautiful jewelry.
We believe that to survive and thrive in today’s retail environment; retailers must provide a fun, unique shopping experience where customers find great products and services and a reason to get out of the house, gather with friends, and support a local business.