Kelsey Klont
Contributing Writer
(Photo by Cindy Gaedert-Gearhart/TCJ: From L to R – Hannah, Matt, Carrie, and Pam)
Carl V. Reck Jeweler & Engraver, an appraised jewelry store in the heart of downtown Charlotte, will celebrate their 50th anniversary on September 29, 2023. They have been locally owned and operated since 1973, when Dan DeLeeuw expanded the family business from the original location in Kalamazoo. Working alongside Dan was longtime employee and beloved friend, Eleni Nicolaou-Sparks, who was at the store for more than 20 years. Eleni became friends with everyone who walked through the doors and became family with the current staff. She was instrumental in helping Carrie, Matt, and Pam lay the groundwork for their outstanding customer service. Eleni’s saying was exactly that: to always treat the customer like they are your friend.
Being in business for 50 years brings its own set of challenges. Store owner, Matt DeLeeuw said they have faced challenges just like any business would, as well as navigating the recessions that occurred back in the 1980s and in 2008.
Collectively as a store, Carl V. Reck Jeweler is so thankful for the community and everyone who has visited them and helped them to become a well-established business in Charlotte. “The local community has made us who we are today, and it is why we have made it to this great milestone,” said Matt.
Carrie Burch, the store manager, said, “Being part of every anniversary, class ring, and engagement means so much to all of us at the store. We are glad to help those in the community during the special times in their lives.”
Carl V. Reck Jeweler looks forward to serving Eaton County for the next 50 years, providing jewelry services including stunning custom work.
Many Eaton County customers well know that Carl V. Reck has a gorgeous selection of pieces that you just cannot find in those big box stores. They also serivce repairs on top of their growing custom work department. Carl V. Reck offers lab-grown and classic natural diamonds.
When asked what she likes most about working at Carl Reck, Carrie said, “When I applied here 21 years ago, I knew it would become my dream job. Ever since then it has been an absolute joy working here and to be a part of our customers’ special occasions.”
In addition to Matt and Carrie, the Carl V. Reck staff includes Pam Burt and Hannah Harris. Pam performs all the engraving. Hannah is a sales associate and designs custom jewelry.
Congratulations to Carl V. Reck Jeweler on 50 years of wonderful business here in Eaton County!
To find or design what you are looking for – whether it is for that special someone, a class keepsake, or any other celebration – know that the friendly faces at Carl V. Reck are here and happy to help you find your dream piece. Visit the store at 106 S. Cochran Ave. in downtown Charlotte or call them at 517-543-6531. Find them on Facebook @Carl Reck Jewelers or visit their website, carlreck.com.
