Coffeez for Closers with Joe Shalaby
Episode: Building a Legacy in Diamonds ft. Gabe & Danny Arik
Release Date: June 20, 2025
In this compelling episode of "Coffeez for Closers," host Joseph Shalaby engages in an in-depth conversation with Gabe and Danny Arik, the dynamic brothers behind Happy Jewelers. Drawing from their rich family legacy and extensive industry experience, Gabe and Danny share valuable insights into building and sustaining a successful jewelry and watch business. The discussion traverses various facets of entrepreneurship, from daily routines and risk management to leveraging social media and maintaining authenticity in a fast-paced market.
1. Inheriting and Building a Legacy
Joseph Shalaby (Joe) introduces Gabe and Danny by highlighting their inheritance of not just a store, but a legacy rooted in their father's vision. Established in Fullerton, California, Happy Jewelers has grown into a respected name in the industry, renowned not only for their exquisite products but also for their exceptional customer service.
Joe [00:00]: "In this business, it's common to inherit a store. But Gabe and Danny, Eric, they inherited a legacy."
Gabe reflects on the family's long-standing presence in the jewelry business, emphasizing their extensive experience from a young age.
Gabe [02:20]: "I decided to open up my own shop, Happy Jewelers. That's when it got established. But me, I've been, you know, growing up since I was like, six, seven years old. I've been around jewelry and the business all my life."
2. Daily Routines and Work Ethic
The brothers discuss their morning routines, balancing family responsibilities with business commitments. Despite their success, Gabe and Danny maintain disciplined schedules, emphasizing the importance of health and early starts.
Danny [01:36]: "I wake up, take the kids to school. I know it doesn't show, but I actually do work out."
Their commitment is further showcased as they detail their approach to arriving at work and managing daily operations.
Gabe [01:30]: "After 25 years being in the business, I get here at like 9:30 actually."
3. Reputation and Customer Service
A cornerstone of Happy Jewelers' success is their unwavering focus on reputation and customer service. Gabe underscores the significance of these elements in maintaining industry respect and fostering trust among clients.
Gabe [03:51]: "The success of Happy Jewelers is very importantly, people say, definitely customer service and, you know, being presence on social media and having good inventory, that's very important."
4. Social Media Domination and Marketing Strategies
Gabe attributes their robust social media presence to early adoption and strategic use of influencers. This proactive approach has enabled them to reach a global audience, setting them apart from competitors.
Danny [04:10]: "When I hired a whole crew, started, like, blasting it. But that's what makes us different. We're aggressive."
Their innovative marketing techniques, including collaborations with influencers and hosting exclusive events, have significantly contributed to their brand's visibility and customer engagement.
5. Navigating Risks and the COVID Impact
The conversation delves into the impact of COVID-19 on the luxury watch market. Gabe and Danny discuss how fluctuating prices and inventory management posed both challenges and opportunities, highlighting their strategic responses to market volatility.
Danny [10:00]: "We were selling that inventory and we're rebuying it. So it got to a point where sometimes it was a little frustrating..."
They candidly share experiences of taking calculated risks, absorbing losses when necessary to maintain cash flow and business continuity.
6. Preserving Family Values and Authenticity
Despite rapid growth, Gabe and Danny remain steadfast in upholding the family values instilled by their father. They emphasize treating employees like family and ensuring every customer interaction is genuine and personalized.
Gabe [14:05]: "Be very appreciative, be respectful, don't cheat anyone. Treat your employees like you would treat your family members."
This dedication to authenticity has fostered a loyal customer base and a positive workplace culture.
7. Views on AI and Technology in the Industry
Gabe and Danny express skepticism towards AI in the jewelry and watch business, valuing the human touch and craftsmanship that define their products. While acknowledging AI's potential, they believe it cannot replicate the artistry and personal service integral to their brand.
Danny [17:27]: "We do all of our designs by CAD, but it is by a person behind the camera doing it..."
Their reluctance to fully embrace AI underscores their commitment to maintaining the artisanal quality of their offerings.
8. Maintaining Brand Identity Amid Growth
As Happy Jewelers expands nationally, Gabe and Danny discuss the challenges of scaling while preserving their brand's intimate and personal feel. They prioritize hands-on management and resisting offers from private equity to maintain control over their business ethos.
Danny [23:33]: "I just can't let it go. I won't let it go because it's my family business. It's my dad's legacy."
This approach ensures that growth does not come at the expense of their foundational values.
9. Future Goals and Next Generation Grooming
Looking ahead, Gabe and Danny focus on grooming the next generation within their family to sustain and evolve the business. They actively involve their children in daily operations, teaching them the intricacies of the trade and the importance of upholding their legacy.
Danny [34:19]: "Our business is here to stay and it's not going anywhere. And it's always going to be a family business."
Their commitment to education and mentorship ensures the continuity of their entrepreneurial spirit.
10. Personal Reflections and Philosophy
Towards the episode's conclusion, Gabe, Danny, and Joe share personal reflections on life, success, and spirituality. They emphasize humility, integrity, and the importance of contributing positively to the community.
Danny [45:06]: "I hope he says, Danny, you helped a lot of people in your life. You never cheated anybody..."
Their heartfelt insights provide a deeper understanding of the values driving their business and personal lives.
Key Takeaways
- Legacy and Experience: Building a business upon a strong family legacy and decades of industry experience.
- Customer-Centric Approach: Prioritizing customer service and maintaining a stellar reputation.
- Innovative Marketing: Leveraging social media and influencer partnerships to dominate the market.
- Risk Management: Navigating market challenges with strategic risk-taking and adaptability.
- Authenticity Over Automation: Valuing human craftsmanship and personalized service over technological automation.
- Sustainable Growth: Balancing business expansion with the preservation of core family values and brand identity.
- Next Generation Development: Actively mentoring and involving children in the business to ensure its future.
Notable Quotes
- Gabe [03:51]: "The success of Happy Jewelers is very importantly, people say, definitely customer service and, you know, being presence on social media and having good inventory, that's very important."
- Danny [04:10]: "We're aggressive. You know, when we see something happen, well, we're willing to take that risk."
- Danny [14:05]: "Be very appreciative, be respectful, don't cheat anyone. Treat your employees like you would treat your family members."
- Gabe [17:27]: "We do all of our designs by CAD, but it is by a person behind the camera doing it..."
- Danny [34:19]: "Our business is here to stay and it's not going anywhere. And it's always going to be a family business."
- Danny [45:06]: "I hope he says, Danny, you helped a lot of people in your life. You never cheated anybody..."
Connect with Happy Jewelers:
- Website: www.happyjewelers.com
- YouTube: Happy Jewelers
- Social Media: Search for "Happy Jewelers" on Instagram and TikTok
Happy Jewelers continues to set the standard in the jewelry and watch industry through a blend of tradition, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence.