Independents

Retailer Hall of Fame 2019: Steve and Judy Padis

IndependentsJul 30, 2019

Retailer Hall of Fame 2019: Steve and Judy Padis

The Padises have created a thriving, multi-generational family business completely on their own terms.

20190729_Padis1.jpg
Judy and Steve Padis pictured with daughter Alexis, Padis Jewelry president. The Padises have been inducted into the National Jeweler Retailer Hall of Fame in the Multi-Store Independent category.
It all started with some beaded necklaces in 1970s Berkeley, California.

Click <a href="https://magazines-nationaljeweler-com.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/retailerhalloffame/2019/index.html?page=1" target="_blank">here</a> to read the full story in the Retailer Hall of Fame issue.
Click here to read the full story in the Retailer Hall of Fame issue.

Steve Padis was a student at the University of California, Berkeley, which was known for, in addition to its prestigious academia, being a magnet for the era’s hippie culture.

But Steve wasn’t the average bead-shilling flower child.

“I went from stringing beads and making necklaces and selling them on Telegraph Avenue as a street artist to wholesaling to other street artists,” he explains.

This knack for entrepreneurship turned into a full-fledged career for Steve upon graduation, when he opened a wholesale showroom in Berkeley.

Though it would be nearly a decade before they married and began working together, it was at that first Berkeley location that Steve met his wife-to-be, Judy, a buyer for the store Beadazzled.

“We actually met the day I moved from Berkeley to San Francisco,” says Steve. “She came to buy jewelry from us [at the old location], and we were literally packing it at the time! So, we had to unpack it and were looking at it …”

“…we were sitting on the floor,” Judy Padis interjects.

“…because all the furniture had already been moved,” Steve continues.

Just as a successful, sustainable business takes times to establish, Steve and Judy weren’t immediately a couple following that first encounter sitting on the showroom floor. First, they were business associates.

Judy, too, was something of a wunderkind. Her boss at Beadazzled, owner Carl Stark, appointed her vice president when she was only 22, putting her in charge of 250 employees. Located in shopping centers, Beadazzled had four stores when Judy joined. When she left 14 years later, it boasted 50 locations. 

Beadazzled was the biggest buyer of Padis Jewelry’s beaded necklaces. And as Steve and Judy’s relationship blossomed, so did Padis Jewelry.

The move from Berkeley to the much-larger San Francisco market propelled the business to the next level.

“[In San Francisco], our volume increased dramatically,” says Steve. “We went from a 500-square-foot showroom, which was essentially four counters in an alley just off Dwight Way in Berkeley, to a 3,000-square-foot store in San Francisco in one of the design centers, so instantly our volume quadrupled.”

Padis Jewelry’s St. Helena, California location
Padis Jewelry’s St. Helena, California location

Steve began working in silver jewelry, then gold chains, then started incorporating gemstones into his work, growth he describes as “little by little, over a 40-year period,” eventually resulting in today’s booming diamond bridal business, selling directly to consumers.

There were a couple of steps along the way that proved particularly prescient.

After occupying the original San Francisco showroom from about 1976 to 1984, Steve decided it was time to move Padis Jewelry to the San Francisco Jewelry Center. The only problem? It didn’t exist.

In 1983, he bought a 70,000-square-foot warehouse and converted it into a jewelry center, replete with 60 showrooms. It officially opened in 1984.

Steve asserts it’s the best investment he’s ever made.

“It was quite a dilapidated warehouse. At the time I purchased it, it didn’t have walls. It had a floor and a roof and literally fencing and corrugated fiberglass for sides,” he recalls. “I converted it into what was for more than 30 years: the San Francisco Jewelry Center.”

This year, with San Francisco’s real estate market at a fever pitch thanks to its techie headquarters status (neighbors include Airbnb), the Padises sold the building.

“It was an offer too good to refuse,” Judy explains.

Yin and Yang
Steve and Judy know better than anyone that their ability to see the larger picture beyond the limits of the traditional jewelry retail model—to make decisions like establishing an entire jewelry center—is a result of their professional synergy.

The pair married in 1983, as Steve was establishing the jewelry center.

They had the blessing of Stark, Judy’s boss at Beadazzled; he was so close with the couple, he was even in their wedding.
“He was the greatest champion of our marriage,” Steve says.

“If it wasn’t for him we wouldn’t be sitting here right now,” Judy adds.

“You have to have the ability to switch, to move, to change direction because if you try to stay and do the same thing, you will not be successful in today’s market. Every day is a new day.” — Steve Padis

Judy remained at Beadazzled during the first few years of their marriage, continuing the professional supplier-retailer relationship with her husband.

“I was Steve’s biggest customer,” Judy notes, “so it was kind of a good gig.”

The power couple also began working together unofficially, establishing a jewelry trade show, the San Francisco International Jewelry Show, with the intention of promoting the jewelry center.

“That time period was when we were having our four children,” Judy says, “so I was [constantly] pregnant and trying to sell booth space.”

After two years of doing the show, in which about 70 companies exhibited per edition, a San Francisco trade show company bought them out.

Judy and Steve Padis with their four children
Judy and Steve Padis with their four children

It was 1986 by then and, without the show to work on, Judy left Beadazzled and joined Padis Jewelry.

“When we merged, it was much better for the company,” says Steve. “Judy is really great at merchandising and marketing, and her degree is in accounting and she still basically runs the accounting side of the operation.”

Judy says that Steve’s talents are “his ability to see into the future what the next hot thing is going to be, and also his diamond buying—there’s nobody like him.

“I used to think I could come in and do what he does and I can’t. He just knows how to make a deal work for everybody. He lets everybody make a profit without overpaying.”

Combining their varied talents allows the Padises to tackle their operations in a way few individuals could.

“Judy has a very strong retail background,” Steve says, “and I have a very strong manufacturing and wholesale background. When you merge this, all of a sudden you can have a very large retail operation with the ability to do your own manufacturing, and the purchasing power to be able to buy from the largest sources in the industry and largest sightholders in the diamond business.”

Judy says their respective skill sets work so well because, despite working in physical proximity for decades (their desks are mere feet apart), they allow each other figurative room to flourish.

“We respect each other’s talents instead of trying to compete with each other,” she says. “He’s so good at what he does with diamonds—I don’t even think about competing with him on that. And he respects me for what I do with all the designer buying. He doesn’t question it; he’s very supportive.”

The Only Way Is Up
Padis Jewelry opened a second store a mere three blocks from the San Francisco Jewelry Center in the San Francisco Gift Center Diamond Mart in 1990, then a third store in the same building.

With their proximity to Silicon Valley, Judy, a self-proclaimed “computer geek,” stayed tuned in to technology trends as computers became a regular part of the American household.

“My first website was in 1996 before anybody was doing jewelry websites,” she says. “Having young kids also really helps [in keeping up with technology]. You have to be so with it now, and I think the kids have exposed me to a lot.”

“You have to be dynamic,” Steve adds. “If we tried to stay doing what we were doing, I know we would be out of business. You have to be relevant today; you have to have a seamless connection online and in-store.”

Fast forward to 2015, Padis Jewelry pivoted in a new direction—north.

While their previous locations had been in San Francisco for decades, they decided to move further afield, opening a store in St. Helena, California.

It’s located in Napa Valley where, in true Padis fashion, Steve and Judy have more than a jewelry store.

They embraced their love of wine by opening their very own vineyard in the valley’s Oak Knoll region in 2008. (For more on Padis Vineyards as well as other jewelers who have expanded into wine and spirits, see the feature “Jewelers Uncork New Opportunities.”)

Of the company’s openness to change, he says: “You’ve got to be willing to change on a dime. You have to have the ability to switch, to move, to change direction because if you try to stay and do the same thing, you will not be successful in today’s market. Every day is a new day.”

Opening the St. Helena store wasn’t the biggest development in the Padis’ recent history, however.

Daughter Alexis Padis joined the company a little over a decade ago, with an MBA in entrepreneurial management and some corporate-world experience under her belt.

“It was right in the middle of that kind of social media pickup from zero to 60,” says Alexis, “and timing couldn’t have been better in terms of the needs of the business and the impact I could make by joining it.”

“She’s young, she’s a millennial and she has different ideas, which helps guide us into the future,” says Steve of his 32-year-old daughter. “With our traditional thoughts and her new innovations it’s been a very important part of our growth.”

Padis Jewelry’s Tacori shop-in-shop
Padis Jewelry’s Tacori shop-in-shop

Working with her parents on a daily basis has demonstrated to Alexis that career passion is sustainable through decades.

“Every day is an adventure with them,” she says. “They have an infectious level of energy and there never seems to be a day off for that energy.

“They’re so passionate about what they do and they’re so enthusiastic. My dad walks into the store every morning whistling.”

The next step in the company’s growth is a unique venture that would be easy to get excited about.

“Every day is an adventure with them. They have an infectious level of energy and there never seems to be a day off for that energy. My dad walks into the store every morning whistling.” — Alexis Padis, on her parents

The Padises are set to own and operate the first Forevermark boutique in the United States, which will be located in Walnut Creek, California.

“I see that as a turning point,” Steve says. “We recognized early that De Beers had the ability to spend marketing dollars and that’s very important to establish a brand. When you sell generic diamonds the margins are very minimal and really unsustainable, so we moved into Forevermark diamonds because we believe in them, and it allows us an avenue to sell what we feel is the best diamond at a fair price.”

Judy adds: “The Forevermark store will create the next chapter. If this one works well, hopefully we’ll open others.”

A Legacy for the Future
Steve and Judy have continuously demonstrated their ability to embrace new avenues of growth for Padis Jewelry. One direction they’re certain of, moving forward, is within their own family.

In March 2019, they elected Alexis president of the company, with Steve stepping into the role of chairman.

“I don’t think me taking over as president is a sign of them slowing down, by any means,” says Alexis, “but it’s a nice nod that they’re looking to share some of the responsibilities and are looking to grow the company in a way where they need to take on somebody else in command.”

In addition to their innovative thinking, Alexis wants to perpetuate her parents’ values, values like treating everyone with respect and kindness.

“They’re some of the most generous and loving people I know. I think that’s been the biggest joy for me in getting to work with them in the jewelry business every day—getting to know them as people and as friends. I would choose them as friends [even if we weren’t related].”

Steve and Judy say if they could go back and do something differently in their careers, they wouldn’t. What they value the most is the relationships they’ve made.

“We have such amazing clients,” Judy says. “The people we meet become our friends. We vacation with some of them. We’ve been to their weddings and baptisms. You become a part of people’s lives. We both just love what we do.”

The Padises so enjoy their work that at times it’s difficult for them to take a break.

“When we go on vacation, we go to jewelry stores,” says Judy.

Steve concurs: “If we vacation for more than two or three days, I can’t wait to get back to work.”

Though growing up Alexis didn’t know if she would join the family business, her first engagement ring sale instilled in her the magic of selling jewelry that marks milestones.

She intends to carry forward the passion evident in her parents, the passion that eventually drew her into the company.

“Being a jeweler is the dream job because, as I found out with that first sale, you’re selling somebody a piece of jewelry that becomes such an important part of her or his life and there’s nothing better than being involved in that moment.

“It’s truly something special and something that all three of us live and breathe. I want to keep that passion going.”

And, lest Alexis forget Padis Jewelry’s humble beginnings 40 years ago, she had one of her father’s original beaded necklaces framed and hung in the office, a constant reminder of the company’s journey.
Ashley Davisis the senior editor, fashion at National Jeweler, covering all things related to design, style and trends.
tags:

The Latest

Stock image of a gavel
CrimeDec 11, 2024
Former Tiffany & Co. Factory Supervisor Sentenced for Stealing Precious Metals

A federal judge gave Benjamin Preacher 59 days in jail, plus 10 months of home confinement and two years of supervised release.

Grader looking into microscope at IGI lab
GradingDec 11, 2024
IGI Set to Go Public Next Week

In a CNBC interview, CEO Tehmasp Printer discussed the IPO in India and what declining lab-grown diamond prices mean for the company.

Heuer Monaco Ref. 1133B
AuctionsDec 11, 2024
Sotheby’s Important Watches Sale Fetches $16.6M

The offering included vintage Rolexes, timepieces worn in “Titanic,” Steve McQueen's watch, and a special Citizen pocket watch.

ja nj btyb.jpg
Brought to you by
Advocacy and Excellence: How Jewelers of America Is Committed to Elevating Our Industry

For over a century, Jewelers of America has been the voice of the industry and valuable resource to jewelers across the country.

Stephanie Gottlieb, Anna Harman, Stephanie Gottlieb x Studs Collection
CollectionsDec 11, 2024
Stephanie Gottlieb Brings Natural Diamonds to Studs

The 13-piece “Stephanie Gottlieb x Studs” collection is the piercing studio’s first fine jewelry offering to feature the gemstone.

Weekly QuizDec 05, 2024
This Week’s Quiz
Test your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Take the Quiz
Person at keyboard holding credit card
SurveysDec 10, 2024
Jewelry Among Top Sellers on Cyber Monday, Says Adobe

An Adobe Analytics report explored the rise in mobile shopping, the popularity of Buy Now Pay Later options, and peak shopping hours.

American Gem Trade Association and University of Arizona
Events & AwardsDec 10, 2024
AGTA Launches Scholarship for University of Arizona Geosciences Students

The inaugural Dick Greenwood Memorial Scholarship in Gems Science will cover the fall 2025 and spring 2026 semesters.

undefined.png
Brought to you by
Protecting Your Sparkle: Why Screening Has Become Essential

While no reputable jeweler would knowingly sell lab-grown stones as natural, it's a growing possibility.

JA New York Show Entrance
Events & AwardsDec 10, 2024
JA New York To Debut 2 New Pavilions at Spring 2025 Show

A Piazza Italia pavilion will feature Italian designers and manufacturers while “MJSA Showcase” brings over a piece of the MJSA Expo.

Ray Griffiths and Ray Griffiths: The Works
CollectionsDec 09, 2024
Ray Griffiths’ First Coffee Table Book Spans 5 Decades of Design

“Ray Griffiths: The Works” tells the story of the master jeweler’s career, which started with an apprenticeship in Australia at age 15.

Grant Mobley and Thomas Davis
MajorsDec 09, 2024
Thomas Davis, Grant Mobley Join WJA Foundation Board

Davis is the director of business development at Select Jewelry Inc., and Mobley is the jewelry and watch editor at the Natural Diamond Council.

Movado campaign
FinancialsDec 09, 2024
Movado’s Q3 Sales Down 3% Amid ‘Challenging’ Environment

The retailer has been upping its marketing spend to drive revenue growth and brand awareness.

Pantone Color of the Year Mocha Mousse
TrendsDec 06, 2024
Pantone’s Color of the Year Is a Delicious Mousse

The color for 2025, “Mocha Mousse,” embodies thoughtful indulgences and everyday pleasures.

Cocoerow Fine Jewelry’s Kokoro Ant Pendant
CollectionsDec 06, 2024
Piece of the Week: Cocoerow Fine Jewelry’s ‘Kokoro’ Pendant

The Yoruba word for ant, “Kokoro” embodies the strength of womanhood in ant society while highlighting responsible sourcing.

Roberto Coin jewelry
FinancialsDec 06, 2024
Roberto Coin Acquisition Gives Watches of Switzerland a Boost in H1

The retailer’s jewelry sales doubled, with branded jewelry performing especially well.

Gold rings
FinancialsDec 05, 2024
Signet Jewelers’ Q3 Sales Slide Amid Slow Engagement Ring Sales, Tech Issues

The jewelry retailer addressed the lab-grown diamond “disruption,” the price of gold, and its holiday weekend performance.

Hand holding shopping bags
SurveysDec 05, 2024
Consumer Confidence Rises Again in November

A more positive view of the current labor market boosted the Conference Board’s index last month.

Michael S. Krzemnicki
Events & AwardsDec 05, 2024
Michael S. Krzemnicki to Receive 2024 Bonanno Award

The director of the Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF) will be honored for his impact on gemology and dedication to advancing the science.

1.png
Supplier BulletinDec 05, 2024
Join Us For Color's Premier Show: 2025 AGTA GemFair Tucson

Sponsored by 2025 AGTA GemFair Tucson

Gwen Beloti, Lisa Bridge, Eddie Plein, Anna Samsonova
Events & AwardsDec 05, 2024
BIJC Announces 2024 ‘Rock the Jewels’ Awards Winners

At the annual event, in its second year, the organization honored those making remarkable contributions to the jewelry industry.

For Future Reference Vintage turquoise necklace
TrendsDec 05, 2024
Amanda’s Style File: A Blue, Blue, Blue Month

Celebrate December babies with 20 pieces of jewelry featuring this month’s birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon.

People outside holding shopping bags
SurveysDec 04, 2024
In-Store Shopping Outpaced Online Over the Holiday Weekend, Says NRF

A total of 126 million consumers shopped in stores over the five-day period, about 5 million more than last year.

Stock photo of diamonds
Lab-GrownDec 04, 2024
GJEPC Says Indian Trade Will Use FTC-Approved Terminology for Lab-Grown Diamonds

The FTC’s Jewelry Guides require “clear and conspicuous” disclosure when advertising lab-grown diamonds.

Grandview Klein Diamond Group Staff
SourcingDec 04, 2024
Designer Saul Fraiman Retires After 55 Years

The fine jewelry designer, who came out of retirement in 2017, is putting down his sketchpad for good.

30.101-carat very light pink diamond
AuctionsDec 04, 2024
30-Carat Pink Diamond Fetches $2.6M at Bonhams

The Type IIa, very light pink colored diamond was the highlight of the recent Hong Kong jewelry auction.

John Willard Craiger mugshot
CrimeDec 03, 2024
Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murder of Florida Jeweler

John Willard Craiger, 83, fatally shot jeweler Ghazi “Gus” Michel Osta following an argument in the store.

National Jeweler columnist Peter Smith
ColumnistsDec 03, 2024
Peter Smith: How a Leadership Hire Can Make or Break a Company

In his latest column, Smith provides a list of questions every business needs to be asking their next potential leader.

×

This site uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to use & browse this site, we assume you agree to our Privacy Policy