Steffan’s Jewelers continuing success after 70 years in business

McHENRY – In 1946, Harold and Theresa Steffan opened a new jewelry store in McHenry called Steffan's Jewelers. Today, the store remains in the family, as Suzanne Cannon, Harold and Theresa's granddaughter, owns and operates the business.

In 1991, Cannon took over the local jewelry store, which is located at the Fountain Shoppes of McHenry, 325 Front St. With the help of her siblings and staff, Cannon said her jewelry store continues to be a successful business 70 years after it first opened.

“This is just amazing that we’ve been around for so long,” Cannon said. “We’ve survived by adapting, growing and following what customers need and want.”

To commemorate the jewelry store’s success, the city of McHenry recognized the local jewelry story Monday. During the special event, McHenry Mayor Sue Low read a proclamation about the store’s history, presented the family with a plaque and declared Nov. 18, 2016, as Steffan’s Jewelers Day in the city of McHenry.

“It was extremely nice,” Cannon said. “I’m just so honored to get a day named after us.”

The store’s success, Cannon said, wouldn’t have been possible without the help of the employees, the city of McHenry and, of course, the customers.

“We are so grateful to be a part of this community and to have built so many friendships throughout the years,” Cannon said.

But it wasn’t all easy, Cannon said, as the business had to survive during the tough times, as well.

“The recession was a big challenge to get through because we weren’t only struggling, but so were our customers,” Cannon said. “Still, the customers would make an effort to come in during rough times to help keep this business alive, and I’m very thankful that they did.”

Cannon, who supports charities in the community, said Nov. 18 also marks the store’s 34th annual Ladies Day Wish Card Party, with proceeds from that event going to McHenry County PADS, a division of Pioneer Center for Human Services.

“We invite the women of McHenry County to come out that day and help us raise money for the local emergency shelter,” Cannon said. “So Nov. 18 is an extra special day for us.”