5 Questions With Holly & Gerard Irvine
Holly & Gerard from U & I Co. share their experience of starting a business locally, and what they love most about the community they call home.
Photography by Viola & Vow.
What made you start this business locally?
We got engaged and went through the process of designing a ring ourselves and quickly realised there was a gap. Getting a truly custom, intimate fine jewellery experience locally just wasn’t really a thing, so we made it one. It’s also our way of investing in the place we love and the community around us.
What’s something people misunderstand about your industry?
That pretty equals good. Instagram is full of stunning jewellery, but a great photo doesn’t tell you anything about integrity, craftsmanship, or whether that piece will hold up to real life. We spend a lot of time talking to clients about their lifestyle before we even touch a design. A piece intended to last needs to be engineered that way from the start, not just look the part.
What’s your favourite hidden gem in the area?
We’re biased, but we think Luxe Studios is a hidden gem! You’ll find excellent coffee and a relaxed atmosphere at the Daily, plus a suite of service based businesses to check out (did we mention there’s parking?!).
What’s the toughest part of running a local business?
Competing with the assumptions that you have to leave town to get something special. A lot of people still think a truly custom and elevated jewellery experience means a trip to Brisbane or scrolling through an overseas website. Changing that perception one piece at a time is an ongoing challenge!
What do you appreciate most about the Gympie community?
Two things: where it came from, and who it is now. The gold rush history gives this town real bones and the community builds on that every day. People here back each other without being asked. That kind of place is worth investing in.
