TheBurg

32 | theburgnews.com | 03.18 1. Why did you want to start your own business? I was ready to do something creative, to dip a toe back into the workforce, while having the flexibility to continue my full-time job—mom, wife and manager of all things health and home. I've had the opportunity to try my hand at quite a range of things and have enjoyed very different types of work. e areas I've enjoyed most, however, have had a creative aspect. at's where I feel simultaneously Zen and plugged-in. Sweet 504—the shop and the client work—has been that flexible, creative space for me. 2. What makes your business unique? Blending the old and the new, appreciating quality, craftsmanship and function, while keeping things fresh – that has always been my personal style. Current classic. at concept is more and more appreciated in main stream design and style. However, it can be tough to pull off if it's not your comfort zone, or if there is nowhere to see it in person. We source great vintage items, for those who don't enjoy, or have time, to hunt for them, and curate new, on-trend accents to keep it current. Our customers find it all in one place, with access to design and style services too. e sweet spot between big-box trendy and over-done antique. 1. Why did you decide to go into your profession? While attending the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, I took an intro to jewelry elective and absolutely fell in love with metal-smithing. While I was working for two incredible jewelers (Lola Brooks and Gabriella Kiss), my husband and I somewhat unexpectedly found the perfect little storefront in Camp Hill to start this journey. is opportunity allowed me to focus on developing my personal line of jewelry and also to offer something unique and different to this area. Meeka is a collection of extraordinary jewelry handmade by incredible artists from across the country. 2. What makes your approach to your job different or unique? Meeka has been a very personal journey for me. To me, jewelry is a personal expression that you share with the world every day. Each piece is an object you can connect and identify with on an intimate level. It communicates something about you and has the incredible ability to tell a story and take on meaning. I believe it should be bought with intention, not on a whim or as a trend. Each piece is an heirloom that celebrates and commemorates, something to be Rebecca Werley sweet 504 sweet504.coM 717.884.4919 Monika Krol MeekA fine Jewelry MeekAJewelry.coM 717.979.5448 3. What's the most fun or gratifying part of what you do? at's a tough one! Here are few: Hunting the interesting and beautiful; Getting to know so many fun and interesting people; Helping clients create spaces they love. Recently, I've been working on a local-and-handmade collection. at's been a great experience—connecting with local makers and artists and seeing their work in my shop. We've added exclusive lines with Quiet Clay ceramics and will have Lyes and Lathers soaps in shop very soon. Toby Bouder's wood vessels are here, and I am on the hunt for a local leather artist, as well. I'd add that, for me, true gratification must include a sense of purpose beyond aesthetic. In December 2017, we launched a "cause candle" in partnership with Green Tree Karma Candles. Exclusive scents, phthalate free, hand-poured, non-gmo soy, locally handmade. Forty percent of the proceeds support global efforts to end human trafficking and support the freedom of women and children. Having the opportunity to proactively impact something I feel strongly about has been truly gratifying. I plan to offer additional items in the future towards this effort. orum si accae. Que voluptiis magnat. cherished and passed on to future generations. I'm thrilled when people come into the store, and I can help them find a piece that tells their story. 3. What's the most fun or gratifying part of what you do? Personally and professionally, I have experienced an incredible amount of growth since opening the doors to Meeka in 2014. e most gratifying part has been meeting and building friendships with the amazing people the store has brought into my life. I've been able to build strong relationships with the talented jewelers whose work graces our cases, lovely customers and the wonderful business neighbors and partners, especially the strong women providing mutual encouragement and support. And if I'm honest, it's also fun to see my pieces finding their place in the world.

• Cover