Nestled in the charming village of Poynton, Cheshire, Lester & Brown Jewellers has been a cornerstone of the community for years. Known for their exquisite craftsmanship and personalised service, the journey of Lester & Brown is a testament to passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
The Beginning of a Dream
The story of Lester & Brown Jewellers began on July 31st, 2004 when Ian Lester and David Brown decided to turn their shared dream into reality. Both brought unique skills and perspectives to the table: Ian, a master diamond setter and jewellery repair expert with a background in jewellery design and manufacturing, and David, a seasoned jewellery repairer and valuer with a keen eye for design and customer service. Their combined expertise laid a strong foundation for what would become a beloved local business.
Ian Lester’s Journey
After leaving school at 16, Ian went to college to study jewellery design and manufacturing. He gained extensive work-based experience in various workshops around Manchester, where he designed, created, and repaired jewellery for the trade. Ian found stone setting particularly intriguing and specialised in setting diamonds, precious, and non-precious stones.
At 21, Ian opened his first workshop, offering repairs, stone setting, and other jobbing work to the trade. By 25, he decided to open his own retail store. A chance opportunity led to the opening of Lester & McCready in Poynton, which later evolved into Lester & Brown after moving across the street.
David Brown’s Journey
David Brown, a jewellery designer and manufacturer with nearly 40 years of experience, specialises in creating contemporary, bespoke, and fine diamond jewellery. He is known for supplying high-quality jewellery in a relaxed, friendly environment. Remodelling customers' jewellery has also become a significant part of his business. David joined forces with Ian in 2008 to create Lester & Brown.
Building a Reputation
From the outset, Lester & Brown set themselves apart with a commitment to quality and personalised service. Their small design studio on Poynton's quaint main street quickly became known for its welcoming atmosphere and the exquisite pieces on display. Ian and David's hands-on approach ensured that every customer received individual attention, whether they were looking for a simple gift or a custom-designed piece.
Expansion and Innovation
As their reputation grew, so did their business. The late 2010s saw Lester & Brown expand their showroom to accommodate a larger collection and a dedicated workshop. This expansion allowed them to offer a wider range of services, including bespoke jewellery design, which became one of their hallmark offerings.
Embracing modern technology was a key part of their growth. Ian and David were early adopters of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, revolutionising the way custom jewellery was designed and created. This technology allowed for greater precision and creativity, enabling them to craft truly unique pieces tailored to each customer’s vision.
Commitment to Sustainability: Lab-Grown Diamonds
One of the most significant advancements embraced by Lester & Brown was the introduction of lab-grown diamonds, a practice they fully committed to a few years ago. Recognising the environmental and ethical benefits, they started offering these stunning, eco-friendly alternatives to mined diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds not only align with their commitment to sustainability but also provide customers with beautiful, affordable options that do not compromise on quality or brilliance.
Community-Centric Approach
Throughout their history, Lester & Brown have remained deeply rooted in the Poynton community. They have supported numerous local events, charities, and initiatives, reinforcing their role as a beloved local business. Their commitment to customer service extends beyond transactions, creating lasting relationships with clients who return for life’s most significant moments – engagements, weddings, anniversaries, and more.
A Family Legacy: The Next Generation
As Lester & Brown Jewellers celebrated their successes, they also looked to the future. The next generation, Ben Lester and Ethan Brown have joined the business, ensuring that the legacy of exceptional craftsmanship and personalised service continues.
Celebrating Milestones and Looking to the Future
As Lester & Brown Jewellers approached significant milestones, they celebrated with special collections and events that paid homage to their rich history. Each anniversary is a testament to their resilience, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to their craft.
Looking to the future, Lester & Brown continue to innovate while staying true to their core values. Ian, David, Ben, and Ethan are committed to ensuring that the legacy of exceptional craftsmanship and personalised service will continue for years to come.
Conclusion
Lester & Brown Jewellers is more than just a business; it’s a legacy built on passion, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to the community. From their beginnings in 2004 to becoming a beacon of excellence in Poynton, Cheshire, their journey is a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication and heart. As they continue to evolve and grow, Lester & Brown remain committed to creating beautiful, meaningful jewellery that captures the essence of life’s most precious moments.
#lesterandbrown #jewelleryhistory #poynton #cheshire #familybusiness #labgrowndiamonds #customdesign #jewellerycraftsmanship #legacy #communitybusiness #ethicaljewellery #sustainablejewellery #milestoneanniversary