Voices Discovered: Joe Hubay
Searching for the perfect gift for that special occasion? Joe Hubay, the sole owner of High Point Jewelers and Fine Gifts, might have exactly what you’re looking for. We recently had the wonderful opportunity to chat with Joe and he shared with us his best pieces of advice, his go to R&R activities, and his biggest motivation –his family. Since 2009, High Point Jewelers and Fine Gifts has offered a wide variety of fine jewelry, repair services, and custom design, as well as a large selection of china, crystal, flatware, and assorted gifts for all occasions. Joe and his team at High Point Jewelers have a special emphasis on community and have committed to giving back through various charities.
Q. How did you wind up in the jewelry industry?
A. I got my start in the Jewelry business 30 years ago for no other reason than I needed a job and someone in my Sunday school class worked at Carlyle & Co and referred me for a fulltime position that was available. From there I fell in love with the business and began managing stores up until Perkinsons closed in 2009 and decided to open my own store!
Q. What type of career would you have in an alternate universe?
A. In an alternate universe I would probably be a comedian, but I would need my “partner in crime” Bobbie Aiken to go with me!
Q. What would people be surprised to learn about you?
A. The only surprise I can think of is that, believe it or not, I’m really am an Introvert!!!
Q. What motivates you?
A. Having the ability to donate and help others along with seeing my children grow up and become successful!
Q. Best career advice you have ever received?
A. Never, ever prejudge ANYONE! All of us are created equal and if you prejudge someone then you may miss out on your next “best customer or friend.”
Q. Best vacation you have taken?
A. Any vacation at the beach with my family and friends!
Q. Where will find you on a Sunday afternoon?
A. On a Sunday you will usually find me on the front porch drinking coffee then maybe a Mimosa…then ending the day with a big family dinner at our house!
Q. Your go-to cocktail (or mocktail)?
A. OMG.. Depends on the mood I am in… Chardonnay, Craft Beer, Margaritas and Mimosas
Q. What makes you truly happy?
A. My family.
Photography by ZoZo Photography
Q. As you know, HPU is right here with incredible students looking to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. What three pieces of advice would you give them?
A.
- Find your passion and pursue that as you will spend more waking hours at work than at home with those you love.
- If you think working for someone is hard, owning your own business is three times that hard, but it has its rewards!
- Get and absorb as much advice from others who have “been there and are doing that.” Book sense is good but the advice from a “Seasoned in the trenches business owner is worth its weight in gold”
High Point Favorites
Q. Restaurant you can’t get enough of?
A. Any Blue Group Restaurant.
Q. Local shops doing everything right?
A. Honestly there are too many to name. We have such a great variety of small businesses here, especially in the Uptown area. I would encourage anyone who hasn’t tried them to come and I assure you that you will be hooked!!
Q. Where do you go to unplug?
A. I really don’t ever unplug… even when I am sleeping.
Q. Favorite place to grab a drink?
Q. Where would you tell a first-time visitor to High Point to go and why?
A. Well Obviously High Point Jewelers and Fine Gifts!! I can assure they will be treated well and we have offerings to meet almost any need!!
It was a pleasure chatting with Joe and we are honored to share his story here.
Voices Discovered is a series where High Point Discovered asks questions to High Point business leaders and entrepreneurs to share their view. Consider it a peek into the heart and soul of our local businesses. We hope you will be inspired to investigate more. Past guests have included Jason Phillips and David Armstrong.
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