Goldsmith Michael Metzger remembers what it was like when he started out as a jewellery designer.
Fresh out of George Brown College in Toronto, he was grateful for the support of an established jeweller who mentored him.
Twenty-five years later, he’s doing the same thing at Metzger Studio in downtown Barrie, a business he founded and owns with his sister, Beverly Metzger-Noble, also a goldsmith. Recently re-located to 99 Dunlop Street East, the new space provided the brother and sister team with an opportunity to expand their business, both in size and scope. In addition to the designs of three full-time jewellers, the store now showcases the work of three recent graduates from the jewellery and metals program at nearby Georgian College. All three rent benches at the store and each is provided a display case. The store is paid a commission on the sales.
“There was a real calling for this from students and we just answered the call,” Metzger says. “They want to become more independent, more in touch with their customer base, and strive to do things themselves.”
Part of that means not carrying the cost of equipment all on their own, which is a significant expense when starting out.
“We have all the equipment here and we show them how to use it safely,” Metzger says. “We’re here and they can lean on us if they’re having trouble with a project, need some ideas, or are stuck with something. We’re mentoring them as well along the way. They can really learn from our experience and fast track things.”
The new store—which sells original and custom designs—is also helping to do its part in the revitalization of downtown Barrie, so much so, Mayor Jeff Lehman attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony. His push to make the core a cultural arts centre has helped a great deal, Metzger notes.
“Downtown Barrie has gone through a pretty hard time with the growth of big box stores, which pull a lot of business away from here,” he adds.
“We’re trying to bring people back into the heart of the city to see what it has to offer. New stores are popping up left, right, and centre.”
