Channel 7 partners with the Buffalo-Niagara Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners on these reports.
Barbara Maira left a long-time career to follow her life-long love of jewelry. Her leap of faith is why she was chosen to be part of the Women in Leadership series.
Fine Jewelry may be desired by many, but for Barbara Maira, it goes deeper than that. It's also her passion.
It inspired her to buy Lisa Hunter Jewelry in Williamsville, a custom design store that's been around since 1982.
So after more than 25 years in banking, this art major is now following her dream, designing creative works to wear, adding some sparkle to her life.
And she's also taken a shine to those she works with, including the two skilled bench jewelers who have been with the business since the beginning, painstakingly crafting creations.
Barbara says their work and reputation have helped sustain the business even in tough economic times.
Carving out a unique niche in the market has also served her well. It's a gleaming legacy Barbara looks forward to continuing.
She says,"I love working with jewelry. It is one of my great passions in life, and it's just great to come to work and do something you love everyday."
