Micro-Enterprise Spotlight: Johnson’s Custom Jewelry

Travis Johnson reports to work each day on the ground floor of a structure that has been part of Spokane’s skyline since 1898. The Peyton Building on Post Street is where you will find Johnson’s Custom Jewelry, established in 2011 and quickly earning a reputation as a company that specializes in products as unique and distinguished as the building it calls home.

A certified gemologist with degrees from the Gemological Institute of America, Travis designs rings and other items that are specially ordered by clients looking to make a lasting impression. “When you go into most places, you’re not speaking with the designer or the goldsmith,” Travis said. “Here, you’re working with the person who’s creating the piece.” Travis moved into a space at Peyton that previously housed an espresso/sandwich shop. So far, the location has suited the single proprietorship perfectly. Since orders are specialized, Travis cuts down on costs by not having to worry about in-store inventory. “I see about 10 to 15 people a week in the store,” Travis said. “Sometimes people come in with a design in mind, other times they have two or three designs they make into one.” A 2000 graduate of Central Valley High School, Travis worked at Tracy Jewelers in Spokane Valley for over a decade before starting his own venture. Classes at CVHS in copper work and sterling silver got him started down his career path. “I was a gemologist who knew how all the stuff at the bench but I didn’t know how to start a business,” Travis said. “The workshop helped me learn about licensing, tax things, all of that. They had lawyers and accountants who would come talk to us and answer questions. It was very helpful.” From ideas about marketing to legal requirements, Travis took the lessons from the workshop and incorporated them into his new venture. In September 2011, the business was off and running. As a certified gemologist, Travis can also appraise gems of all kinds. His alma mater was founded in 1931 and is recognized for establishing the standard by which diamond quality is determined. Running his own store meant going from 40 hours a week to 60 in the first year. With the holidays approaching, Travis will be working a steady seven days a week until Christmas Eve. As Travis puts in the hours, he also works to get out the word that custom-made jewelry is more affordable than most people realize. Looking ahead, he hopes to expand the company and eventually design his own line of rings. As far as the help from SNAP, Travis said the instruction and insight helped chart the path to his custom-made success.   “Looking back, I would definitely recommend the SNAP workshop,” Travis said. “It helps you get everything in line before and after the business opens.”   

To learn more about SNAP Financial Access and micro-enterprise development, call 456-7106.

Story & picture by Craig Howard. Originally published: 11.27.13