Our Staff

Jeff Walters

jeff@jeffwaltersdiamonds.com

The Walters family has been in the Jewellery business since 1946.  Jeff has been a part of the industry himself since the day he could push a broom in his father’s shop on Wyndham Street in downtown Guelph, Ontario.

In October 1998, a new and innovative Jewellery Store was launched in Barrie, Ontario. Jeff visualized this new concept in the jewellery business most of his adult life. "What we do here, is  transform the jewellery buying process into a pleasant, relaxed and entertaining experience where the customer learns what we know about diamonds" The store and online gallery have been designed to make Jeff’s customers feel more comfortable and in control of their purchasing decisions.

Jeff says, "Having worked in my father's jewellery stores over the years, I was able to develop this new system of running a business. It became clear to me over time that customers want to be taught how to make an informed decision around diamonds. Hence, Jeff Walters Diamonds has become a learning environment."

All of the staff have been fully versed in the manufacturing techniques used to create his jewellery. Jeff personally takes them on regular mini tours of the factory so that they can receive a firsthand insight into the world of jewellery making and repair. To this he says, “Customers are the ones who really benefit. When my staff knows, my customers know. It's that simple."

Another aspect that makes Jeff Walters Diamonds so unique is one of the shop’s showrooms  that feature  showcases with no glass barriers. In this room, over a thousand sample rings are open for customers to touch and feel, without supervision. The designed jewellery in the rest of the store have price tags, so there's no mystery. "Men, especially love this feature. And the best part is,” Jeff says, “is that all of our designs can be altered in any way you wish, to suit both your budget and your sense of style.”

Our friendly, up-beat staff, look forward to meeting every customer. As well, please ask to say "hi" to Jeff the next time you visit. In his own words, "I always have time for family and for my customers."

Shane Haapala

shanehaapala@jeffwaltersdiamonds.com

Shane has been with Jeff Walters Diamonds since January 1999.  From his beginnings with Birks Jewellers to running his own successful jewellery consultant business,  Shane brings professionalism and a great deal of knowledge to Jeff Walters Diamonds as the jewellery designer. Always positive, courteous and lots of fun, he will assist you with all your jewellery creations!

Yvonne Sucharzewski

yvonne@jeffwaltersdiamonds.com

Yvonne has been with Jeff Walters Diamonds from the first day the company opened in 1998. As the Office Manager, she handles all in store accounting issues as well as all administrative activities. Her commitment and attention to detail allows Jeff Walters Diamonds to make good decisions on a daily basis. Yvonne also brings a good balance between her creative and her accounting background.

Anita Vermilyea

anita@jeffwaltersdiamonds.com

Anita has been with Jeff Walters Diamonds for 12 years. Being a former customer, and working in a retail environment, she  brings a wealth of experience to Jeff  Walters Diamonds. With her knowledge and hands on approach with diamonds, gold and repairs, she has  customers coming back on a regular bases just to see her. Anita has a unique and professional way of dealing with  customers to make them feel relaxed and confident with their purchases.

Tawnya Sobun

tawnya@jeffwaltersdiamonds.com

Tawnya came to us May 2010 as a co-op marketing student from Georgian College and became full time in September of 2012. Her charm and attention to detail makes her a valuable asset to our company. Having completed our in-house Gem Course, Tawnya has proven to be a fast learner with practical application. When she is not shadowing Jeff in and outside of the store with marketing venues, you will find Tawnya ready to serve you at the diamond counter.