Meet Jennifer Parks | Owner & Goldsmith

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jennifer Parks and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jennifer, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
As an artist, I have worked in different roles after completing my studies in Metalsmithing at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. Right out of college, I worked for a goldsmith as a bench jeweler developing my skill further. It was a valuable experience by expanding the application of my technique to a production setting. With the knowledge from my background, I later became the lead designer and goldsmith for a jewelry store. I spent 10 years fine tuning my skill in that position. My employment in that role was valuable in many ways but was also lacking in others. During this time, I hadn’t considered that my work would eventually be held hostage from as the owner of the jewelry store was considering retirement. This unfortunate turn of events made it apparent to me, that the only way to have true ownership of my creations was to be my own boss. From that heart-breaking reality, Avu Goldsmiths was born.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Being an artist and a business owner wrapped into one is quite possibly the hardest journey I have ever embarked on. The pressures of running a business can be overwhelming and stifle the creative process. I have come to learn that time is my most precious commodity and taking moments to recharge is necessary to feed my creativity. Slowing down and making time to create, is what fuels my brand and gives me a deeper sense of purpose. I utilize the lost wax method of casting in which the work begins with a wax model I build by hand. This step is where my design ideas take shape through carving and forming the wax medium. I’m drawn to the natural world and reflect that love in the composition of my designs. Pairing carefully selected gemstones with the organic nature of twirling vines and leaves is where I find my niche. The intricacies that exist in my handmade jewelry are the hallmark of Avu’s craftsmanship setting us apart from the usual.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Williamsport, Pennsylvania lies along the banks of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River which is at the base of the Bald Eagle Mountains. The surrounding rural area offers a wide range of outdoor recreational options from hiking and biking the Pine Creek Rail Trail or Rickett’s Glen State Parks that boast 22 waterfalls on the Falls Trail. Kayaking, canoeing or boating the river, creeks or lakes will keep visitors busy while taking in the landscape. After a day well spent outdoors, it is hard to pick a favorite locally owned restaurant, brewery or pub. Some of my favorites are The Bullfrog Brewery, Moon and Raven Public House, and Ozzie and Mae’s Hacienda to name a few. Dinner can be followed by arts and entertainment at either the Community Theatre League or the Community Arts Center to take in a musical, play, comedian or live music. Saturday mornings throughout the summer offer a robust Grower’s Market to pick up the freshest locally grown produce and locally raised meats for a casual dinner at home. When visiting Williamsport, time should absolutely be spent exploring the variety of locally owned boutiques, gift shops and jewelry stores such as Avu Goldsmiths, Patinaz, Gustonian Gifts and The Robin’s Nest. Williamsport is truly a hidden gem with a small town feel.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There have been so many people along the way that have made my success possible. I’m grateful for the support of family, friends and loyal customers that have supported me throughout my career, but the people who truly deserve all the love are my parents. They taught me what it means to work hard and be kind. After losing my father 12 years ago everything was hard but my mom, Sue Parks, has been an enormous support. Her dedication to my success is unparalleled. From the demolition and renovation of Avu’s brick and mortar home to warmly greeting customers after we opened, she has played a part in nearly every aspect of my small business. It is an understatement to say I couldn’t done it without her love and support. I’m beyond thankful that I have her as a mother and work everyday to make both her and my father proud of what we have built.

Website: https://www.avugoldsmiths.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avu_goldsmiths

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/avugoldsmiths