By Tina Lange from EverythingBrevard.com
Staci Sullivan Opens New Jewelry Studio in Downtown Melbourne
The word jewelry and the name Sullivan are synonymous in Brevard County. Sullivan’s S&S Jewelers was established in town in 1955 by Joe and Violet Sullivan — a couple who met as teenagers, miraculously defied health odds and established a business with family at its foundation and its core.
The legacy of three generations of Sullivan jewelers in Brevard continues with Joe and Violet’s granddaughter Staci Sullivan, who in July hosted the grand opening of Staci Sullivan’s Jewelry & Design Studio in Downtown Melbourne.
When Staci was young, she often could be found hanging out in her parents Doug and Isabel’s and grandparents’ jewelry stores — holding gems with tweezers and greeting customers.
“Our family is strong, we take heart in that we help people with their sentimental celebrations,” she said. “It’s not just jewelry.”
Staci’s grandparents’ North Babcock store is now owned and operated by her aunt and uncle, Angie Sullivan Evans and Mike Sullivan, Sr. The two studios support each other and carry unique merchandise.
“My favorite thing to do is taking old jewelry or sentimental treasures and re-setting them and making them pieces people can wear,” Staci explained about her “lifestyle” jewelry approach. “It’s truly an art and keeps a piece of jewelry alive within a family for generations.”
In love with her new space in the former Grimaldi Candy Store, Staci said the warm and inviting neighborhood reflects a “creative new approach to design that I’m excited to share with my customers. A lot of the concepts I’m using in my new location I’ve been waiting to do for years.”
In addition to her jewelry as art — Staci plans to incorporate unique elements inspired by the jewelry, art and architecture of places she’s traveled — Staci is all about supporting local artists. She hosts various art-centered gatherings at her studio, including what she affectionately calls “Fun-Raisers.” She’s also excited about a planned mural involving local artists.
Staci is at home in her new studio, where she works with mom Isabel and daughter, Caitlin. “Give me a ring, and I’ll help you shine,” she likes to say.
As a single mom, Staci is working to promote a win-win career as she continues the family legacy. She spends Monday through Wednesday creating in the studio and offers focused customer service, primarily meeting clients by appointment.
Her passion is sharing her drive and mentoring others to bring out their inner artist.
“Self-esteem is such a gift that when we lift others up, we also become the best version of ourselves,” Staci said.
Taking life experience and applying it to daily life has allowed Staci to serve others beyond the sparkle.