MOMpreneur: n. defined as a female business owner who is actively balancing the role of mom and the role of entrepreneur.
Welcome to our latest installment of MOMpreneur Monday, highlighting businesses and brands that were founded by female entrepreneurs and fellow mommas!
Today’s featured Modern Boca MOMpreneur is Heidi Ortman Sheff, owner and president of J.Ortman Jewelry in Boca Raton. This diamond, precious stone & fine jewelry company was established in 1899.
Tell us a little about your background and why you decided to start J. Ortman Jewelry in Boca Raton…
Hi! I’m Heidi Ortman and I’m a New York transplant to South Florida. Although I raised my family in New York, I now reside full time in Boca and I absolutely love living here! I can’t even imagine ever moving back to the Northeast. I love the warm weather and vibrant community.
I continue to re-create myself and rekindle my passion for my jewelry business. As a concierge jeweler, specializing in custom made fine jewelry, my expertise is in tailoring your desired dream piece to compliment your unique style and stay within your financial considerations. Since my family has been in this industry for over 120 years, I have access to worldwide sources and connections to acquire top merchandise at the best value for any request.
What challenges did you face early on?
I wanted to continue the heritage as the fourth generation in my family business, so I have dedicated 40+ years to the craft of buying, selling and designing jewelry. In my early 20’s, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work alongside with my grandfather, Jack Ortman-a true maven, connoisseur and visionary in the jewelry industry.
His wisdom and spirit have always inspired me to thrive in business, nurture relationships, and carry forth our long legacy in gems and jewelry in Boca Raton. As I continue to navigate thru my life experiences, may the lessons learned from my grandfather help uphold the values that have been passed down for generations. My journey is a true testament to the enduring power of family values, the importance of tradition, and the passion for a world of beauty.
How has owning a business impacted your family life?
My ex-husband, Roger Sheff and I raised our two daughters, Jessie and Hanna in Chappaqua, NY. Alongside them, I have cherished the presence of my two step-daughters Morgan and Mallory, who I have known since they were 2 and 4 years old. Even though they grew up in France with their mother, they both came to the states for the holidays and summers and are still an integral part of our family life.
Being a mother has been my biggest joy, and having the flexibility to work part-time as my daughters grew up was a huge blessing! I have always been fortunate to be the owner of my company. This provided the invaluable liberty to shape my own schedule around my families needs, allowing me to be present for all the pivotal moments of their lives, from afterschool activities, sporting events, etcetera.
I have always been someone who finds fulfillment in the intellectual engagement that work brings.
“This balance between my professional life and motherhood wasn’t just advantageous—it was essential for me.”
It enabled me to be a more present, attentive parent. The duality of being a part-time, stay-at-home mom, while also engaging with the vibrant energy of NYC for work, was the perfect blend for nurturing my children and myself.
Hanna, my youngest daughter has inherited a deep-rooted love and enthusiasm for jewelry, a passion that mimics my own. Her childhood adventures often involved sneaking into my jewelry drawers and playfully adorning herself with my most valuable pieces. I recall a memorable event when she was 13, at a Bat Mitzvah, she wore my precious Van Cleef & Arpel’s yellow and pink diamond rings without asking. It wasn’t until the event concluded that I noticed the sparkling gems on her fingers, thankfully still securely in place!
Now, Hanna brings her radiant spirit to the forefront as the face of my brand, modeling for my website and Instagram. Her involvement is more than just a visual representation; she actively contributes to my trunk shows and amplifies her presence on social media. Hanna’s role is a beautiful testament to how family and business can intertwine, creating a legacy that’s both personal and professional.
My daughter Jessie just got engaged and it was an exhilarating journey, filled with personal joy and creative fulfillment while I was designing her ring. The moment she revealed her adoration for the design, it was a deep sigh of relief for me, especially since she has such a discerning eye for simple, yet specific taste. Dickson, her fiancé, also found solace in my guidance through what is undoubtedly a daunting endeavor for most men preparing to propose.
What’s unique about your jewelry in Boca Raton?
My role extends beyond the creation of beautiful pieces; it involves a keen understanding of my clients’ desires and financial boundaries. The satisfaction in my work comes from steering individuals towards their dream jewelry, ensuring it aligns not only with their aesthetic preferences but also with their budgetary considerations.
Currently, my primary concentration lies in crafting bespoke pieces that feature both Natural and Lab-grown Diamonds. My creations range from captivating diamond engagement rings to classic diamond stud earrings, elegant straight line necklaces and bracelets, and classic diamond pendants. These items serve as the foundation in many women’s jewelry collections and are classic pieces which can be worn every day and will never go out of style.
In addition to my focus on diamond jewelry in Boca Raton, I maintain a passion for vintage jewelry and colored gemstones. This passion for collecting and appreciating unique, historical pieces, along with the vibrant allure of gemstones, continues to inspire and shape my work. It’s this blend of contemporary craftsmanship and a love for timeless treasures that defines my approach and offerings in the world of jewelry.
What do you love about working and living in South Florida?
South Florida is one of the most beautiful and sought after destinations in the world. Coming from New York was one of the best decisions being that the weather is always so amazing and warm! We enjoy it all year round and look forward to continuing our memories here with our family and customers.
J. Ortman Jewelry in Boca Raton
For any Diamond, Precious Stone, Vintage or Custom-made jewelry in Boca Raton or beyond, please feel free to reach out me: [email protected]
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Website: https://jortman.com/
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Instagram: @j.ortmanjewelry
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/j.ortmaninc/
