What is it like to work in the jewelry industry? Philippe L. is the passionate entrepreneur behind Philippe & Co, a high-end jewelry that specializes in engagement rings. Handcrafted in Montreal, its pieces are a woman’s dream come true. He answered to my Luxury Insiders’ questionnaire below.

What does luxury mean to you?

It represents a good feeling of satisfaction, it’s meant to create emotions and give you a certain level of satisfaction, if not than it shouldn’t be called luxury.

How would you describe your job?

Pretty fun! My role consists of assisting and advising my customers considering purchasing jewellery. Because of our vast network, we have customers from all nationalities, background and even some celebrities. There’s never a dull day at the office.

What are the first things you do when you wake up in the morning?

Kiss my wife and son. Check my emails and look at our social media data. I’m a morning person so I try to leave before 7am to head to the office. Mornings are usually for overall planning and production reviews.

What do you like the most about your job?

Our customers. Jokes aside, we really have great customers and meeting and getting to know all of them is really a cool part of the job.

Who are you most inspired by and why?

I love creating and building stuff from A to Z and this is what we are doing with the business. I want to look at this in 10 years and say we went from unknown to the most trusted jewellery company for engagement rings in Canada.

What would you tell people who aspire to work in your industry?

Bling Bling is overrated. This is not a short term business. Doing what is right for your customers will always bring you ahead of the competition in the long run.

Who influenced you in your carreer?

By far my mom. She has played a huge role in my life, from boosting my self-esteem from day one to always being there to support me. I’ve also had the privilege to have an excellent mentor/partner who is one of the most trusted individual within the Canadian Jewellery Industry. I also have an amazing godfather who makes sure I don’t neglect my family time  and helps me put things in perspective.

What skill set is needed to do what you do?

Trustworthy, patient, respected, people’s person.

What’s the most common misconception people have regarding your industry?

Easy & fast money.

What’s the best career advice you ever received?

Do what you love and take good care of the people around you.