These local jewelry designers offer services for entertaining and rewarding clients or employees.
1. With her new "Have Cuffs, Will Travel" service, local jewelry designer Tracy Mayer offers a high-end, desk-side gift service. Armed with a suitcase full of 75 cuff link samples, Mayer can travel to offices in the city and suburbs to meet with clients or employees, either individually or in groups. Incorporating stones such as pink sapphires and black diamonds, materials ranging from vintage Mah Jongg tiles to coins from the 1700s, and 950 silver (a metal slightly purer than sterling), the cuff links range from $350 to $700 per set. Once the giftee has selected a pair, Mayer will ship it to him along with a note that details the jewelry's symbolism and the origin of its stones.
2. Designer Erin Gallagher uses colorful gemstones to make necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings that cost $20 to $275 apiece. The designer hosts employee and client-appreciation parties in her Lincoln Park studio, and says the events are particularly popular with advertising reps who want to thank their customers. Catering to groups as large as 25, the two-hour events allow participants to design their own pieces by stepping up to Gallagher's so-called "gem bar," where they select a jewelry style, then mix and match metals and stones. Gallagher's employees are also on hand to offer design advice or draft mockups of guests' creations. After the event, Gallagher hand-makes each piece and sends it directly to its creator, or to hosts so they can present the gifts themselves. The designer can help arrange catering for events held in her studio, and can travel to the city or suburbs for in-office events.
