MB Addison & Co Pioneer From The Past & A Legacy For The Future

MB. Addis & Co.

Pioneer From The Past & A Legacy for the Future

TopCity, how lucky are we? Right in the heart of downtown Topeka, MB Addis & Co., a new jewelry store has opened its doors. This store features a unique selection of pieces curated by an expert who has been in the field working for some of the most well-known jewelers in the world.

Owner Michele Billam went to Shawnee Heights High School and Washburn University, then her career took her to far off places around the world. She began her fine jewelry career as a corporate buyer for Helzberg Diamonds then went to work for Signet Jewelers, one of the largest jewelry retailers in the world. You’d likely recognize the names, Kay's, Jared and Zales which Signet Jewelers is the parent company of. Traveling the globe several years for Signet put Michele in the perfect position to transition to lead a team of 20 individuals for LVMH that placed jewelry, watches and luxury items on cruise ships! She recently moved back from Miami to open MB Addis & Co.!

Michele has known since her late 20’s that she wanted to not only have a corporate retail career but become an entrepreneur. She has been able to do both throughout her times of travel away from home and has built a very, unique skill set which you will notice when you visit MB Addis & Co.

Michele is not only passionate about the true artisanship of fine jewelry but the love and emotion that connects people with their jewelry. She’s been so happy to see the excitement in customers when they come through the doors of MB Addis & Co. and love what they find. The selection is not only unique, but you will find pieces at every price point, even some diamond jewelry priced under $100! Her times of travel around the world has forged connections and friendships that no doubt play a role in the most unique selection of jewelry in town.

We love that Michele isn’t just motivated to grow her own business but that she is pouring back into our community. She participates in various volunteer opportunities and is already supporting other local nonprofits like Top Teer and Bloom with donations and sponsorships. She is also becoming involved in the revitalization of downtown Topeka and is excited about helping downtown become a destination.

“I like helping people celebrate their special moments and I want to do that for years to come. I also hope to be a pillar of downtown as it continues to grow and expand as a destination for Topeka.” said Michele.

Legacy is part of what Michele and her team want to build and it starts with a firm foundation in the history of the name. This business is named in part for a legacy and pioneer in the jewelry business, Miss M.L Addis. She was the first recognized woman jeweler in the United States! Would you have even guessed that her store was right here in Topeka, Kansas!

Moving back to Topeka from Florida to open this store was a big move! Opening the business here enabled Michele and her husband to be closer to family and friends and share life together again after many years apart. Let’s give her a big welcome home and show her some support!

Make sure you check out her upcoming promotion for your Valentine! She will be teaming up with another local business owner to put together something stunning!

New Business Story Sponsor: Derrick Hodam, Agent, Farm Bureau Financial Services