Welcome to a detailed exploration of the passion and precision behind Ali Munn Jewellery, as shared by the owner and creator, Ali Munn. Nestled in the historic heart of Gastown, this business stands out for its commitment to crafting unique handmade jewellery pieces, including custom gold work, wedding and engagement rings, and exquisite hand-engraved items. From the joys of connecting with clients worldwide to the nitty-gritty of the craft, let’s delve into the essence of Ali Munn Jewellery and discover what makes it shine.
What does your business do?
I create handmade jewellery in my studio located in Gastown. I specialize in custom gold pieces, particularly wedding and engagement rings, as well as hand-engraved jewellery.
What made you want to do this work?
I moved to Vancouver from Calgary in 2012 to complete a Jewellery Art & Design diploma at Vancouver Community College, after taking some evening silversmithing classes at the Alberta College of Art and Design.
From my first class, I was hooked. I love working with my hands and was excited to make something that became a part of people’s everyday life and self expression. I love the timeless nature of jewellery and how it can be passed down through generations, along with the symbolic nature of the pieces.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
My goal when creating custom jewellery is to make the process fun and educational for my clients. I love sharing my craft, and I want clients to feel engaged and informed as they learn about the jewellery-making process and see their ideas come to life.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
I work with people from all over Vancouver as well as Canada and around the globe!
How does your business make money? How does it work?
I sell a collection of gold and silver pieces through my online shop, as well as through my brick-and-mortar stockists in the USA, including Paxton Gate in Portland, OR, and Fiat Lux in San Francisco.
For custom designs, the process begins with a preliminary meeting to discuss key design elements, budget, and timeline. I host appointments at my studio in Gastown or via phone and Zoom for non-local clients.
Once I have an idea of what we will be creating, I can source any necessary diamonds or gemstones and create design mockups.
I start by taking a 50% deposit on the final cost after selecting stones and finalizing the design. I will then create a detailed digital rendering for the client so they know exactly what the final piece will look like.
Throughout the creation process, I share progress photos, and the remaining 50% of the payment is due upon pickup or shipping.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
The best way to find a jeweller to create your dream piece is to look through the pieces they have already created and find someone whose style resonates with you! Looking through someone’s instagram or website to see if you like the type of jewellery they are already creating is a great place to start. Some specific design elements like hand engraving are not offered by every jeweller, so it is good to enquire if they offer that service if you know it is something you would like to include.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is getting to work with lovely people to create something that is very meaningful to them. The worst part is that making jewellery is very dirty, the compound used to polish jewellery gets on everything and is difficult to wash out of clothing. You just have to embrace that part!
Where can we follow you?
You can find me on Instagram, TikTok, and my website.
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
Support the Wise Hall! One of my favourite local institutions that is at risk of closing. The best place to grab a beer and play pool downstairs, or go to a live show or one of the many other events upstairs.
