Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers has been a beloved fixture in the community for over four decades. What started out as a life tragedy became the legacy of original owner Jim Kennedy’s life work. At the age of 22, Jim was in a terrible car accident, forcing him to change career paths. He went to watch-making school to learn a new vocation and started working for a local jeweler. During that time he met his beautiful bride Becky. In 1983 Jim with the support of his wife Becky founded Kennedy’s Jewelers.
From the beginning, Jim wanted Kennedy’s to be known for their exceptional designs, craftsmanship, personalized customer service, and community support. He believed to be successful they had to care about people and earn their trust. As second-generation owners, Aaron Kennedy and Trisha Kennedy-Thompson, continue to uphold the values set by their parents when Kennedy’s was first established.
When asked about how being second-generation owners has influenced their approach to the business today, Aaron and Trisha both agreed they were fortunate to witness their parents’ commitment firsthand. “Our parents learned from their achievements and mistakes, and we were lucky to be there for those experiences. Their love for the craft ignited our own passions and instilled the importance of integrity and customer satisfaction."
Kennedy’s Jewelers continues to uphold the core values passed down from Jim and Becky Kennedy. "Our father believed in investing in customer satisfaction,” Trisha explained. "This philosophy remains central to our business today, alongside our commitment to community involvement. We believe in giving back to the community that has supported us.”
Today Kennedy’s Jewelers gives back to the community in various of ways, including scholarships, and supporting multiple nonprofit organizations. They are also active members in community-focused organizations including the Blue Springs Education Foundation and the Rainbow Center. Trisha serves as the current treasurer of Blue Springs Rotary. “We strive to enrich the lives around us and make the world a better place. This was what our parents did over 40 years ago and we want to continue that legacy for years to come.”
When reflecting on being in business for 41 years, Kennedy’s Jewelers has witnessed dramatic industry transformations. Aaron and Trisha recall their parents having no computers and all the tickets being handwritten. Now there are CAD Cams to help design those one-of-a-kind pieces that each client envisions, and Kennedy’s helps craft.
Kennedy’s continues to prioritize customer satisfaction, just like they did when they first opened their doors, but their approach has evolved. “Customer taste, particularly in engagement ring selection, has changed over time. When our dad was working he shared stories about seeing a bride’s eyes light up when they received that sensational handcrafted piece of jewelry from the one they loved. He loved being able to be a small part of that life-changing moment.” Aaron and Trisha shared with a smile on their face. “In our current era, there are thousands of designs to choose from. Couples will often come in together and the bride-to-be is heavily involved in picking out her engagement ring.”
To ensure customers are happy, Trisha researches current and upcoming trends to guarantee inventory attracts any client that walks through their doors. “We listen attentively to our clients’ preferences and consistently refresh our inventory to ensure it remains captivating. I take the time to hand-select each piece of jewelry we have. We want our customers to not only have the best options but know they are receiving high quality.”
Having been in business for over 41 years, there are thousands of memorable projects Kennedy’s has had the privilege of working on. “Some of our favorite projects are custom designs with personal significance. Oftentimes this is after the loss of a loved one. We help customers take sentimental pieces of jewelry and redesign them into new pieces for them to wear and cherish. This brings immeasurable joy and meaning to our work because of the love that goes into it.”
As Kennedy's Custom Jewelers look toward the future, they remain dedicated to upholding their legacy of excellence, while welcoming new generations and honoring their rich heritage.
Beyond their exceptional craftsmanship, Kennedy's Custom Jewelers takes pride in their strong ties to the Blue Springs community. They are more than a jewelry store; they are a trusted partner in life's most significant moments. Whether celebrating an engagement, anniversary, or personal achievement, Kennedy's is there to provide guidance and support both in their store and out in the community.
“Their love ignited our passions and instilled the importance of integrity and customer satisfaction.”
"This brings immeasurable joy to our work because of the love that goes into it."