Jewelry Wholesale Market

This weekend I went shopping for my store. Buying is one of the most fun things I do. I went to the New York Gift Show on Sunday and into the jewelry (and accessories) wholesale market on Monday.

The wholesale market is a very UNglamourous way to buy. It feels like a chaotic, ethnic marketplace with massive amounts of jewelry in lots of low-brow stores. I bring in a suitcase with wheels and schlep around the dirty, crowded streets between 25th and 31st between 6th and Broadway. Cash is preferred and zero service is the norm.

There are literally millions of earrings, necklaces and bracelets to choose from. Hundreds of scarves and socks. Maybe 50 stores. But I'm not complaining, in fact I had a ton of fun! Come on in and check out our new jewelry, scarves and socks!

Welcome

Hey, everyone. Welcome to NoKa Jen's blog. In this space, I'll be writing about life in my little shop, NoKa & NoKa Joe's. The shop is two floors, and two related but distinct enterprises. Downstairs, you'll find NoKa Joe's, where I sell organic and fair trade coffees and teas, along with delicious baked goods and oodles of candy. And we have great soups from Hale & Hearty. Upstairs is home to NoKa, a store with fun gifts, silly toys, funky jewelry and an eclectic mix of vintage furniture.

As our store heads into the holiday season, I look forward to seeing you here on the blog and in the store. And don't forget to shop local!

Coming tomorrow: "Hey, NoKa Jen: What Does 'NoKa' Stand For?"