Name:
Randi Udell Alper
Company:
London Jewelers
Contact info:
Email: rudell@londonjewelers.com
How many years have you been in business in NYC?
Been in business 90 years, but one month in NYC with our first brick and morter, which opened in August in the Oculus, WTC.
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
I grew up in this family-owned and operated business, four generations strong.. I literally grew up in our Glen Cove store. I would sit on my fathers lap, listen and learn. I would play with stones, and my grandfathers watch parts at his bench, clean the cases free of fingerprints with windex and watch my grandfather do all our hand engraving. After school and weekends, my mom brought my brother and I to the store.
My great grandfather, Charles London started the business in 1926. After my great grandfather passed, my grandparents then took over, and continued the success. It wasn’t until my parents, Mark and Candy took over that it grew into The London Jewelers we have today with 6 London jewelers, a Cartier boutique, two Van Cleef and Arpels boutiques, a David Yurman boutique, a Chanel Fine jewelry boutique and a Roberto Coin boutique all under our London umbrella. We carry the world’s finest watch and jewelry brands from around the globe, all under one roof.
What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
We are the number one independent family jeweler in the country. We are committed to excellent service and an unparalleled selection. At London, we carry over 60 luxury brands. We cater to clients for small gifts and large gifts and heartfelt gifts.
What do you feel gives you longevity in this big city with so many options?
No one else has what London Jewelers has to offer, with all our brands of jewelry and watches. We can create anything custom to cater to specific needs, and we deliver through our “London Calling” service. Trust is key in this business, and you can always count on us. We cater to each client personally. Service, Integrity and passion is truly what makes us different.
What is your favorite part of your job?
There is so much! But my all-time favorite part of my job is working alongside my family. Most days, its my parents, Candy and Mark, my daughters, Sienna and Skye, my brother Scott and his wife, Jess and their two children, Blake and Mason. I feel so blessed to call my “work,” my happy and safe place. I love the buying, and all aspects of the creative side of the business as well.
What is your favorite secret NYC spot?
My favorite spot in NYC is central park, my kids and I go at least once a day to escape the chaos of NYC.
How do you benefit mamas?
I make many mamas happy everyday! From “push” gifts, to birthdays, to anniversary gifts and everything in between, I bring the jewels right to you. I love to help style moms and transition them out of their everyday wear. It is the best way to shop, try on and make a wish list for husbands! I also celebrate all of life’s most wonderful joys with mommies, so it is a great feeling to be involved in.
What is the most memorable feedback a client has given you?
The most memorable feedback is when clients realize the amount of detail we put into everything we do. Its all in the details, and we don’t skip any.
What is the best advice anyone's ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
My mother gives me the best advice. Her words of wisdom are “jewelry is a woman’s best insurance policy”.
I always believe in giving back as well, and philanthropy is a huge part of us at London Jewelers.
As moms, the day can escape us, what is your best time-saving trick?
Make lunch and prep dinner before anyone else is up in the morning, it saves chaos in the kitchen. Another time saving trick is to always bath both kids together!