Zachary’s Jewelers Unveils Children’s Book Featuring Beloved Mascot

A New Chapter for Zach Bear

Constance Polamalu, Chief Operating Officer of Zachary’s Jewelers, is launching her first children’s book, titled ‘Zach Bear and the Window Necklace.’ The book aims to bring the retailer’s cherished Zach Bear gift to life, weaving a narrative that emphasizes curiosity, bravery, and the joy found in helping others. Illustrated by Nick Nikiforou, the story introduces Zach Bear, a teddy bear who observes the nightly routine at Zachary’s Jewelers, where jewelry is placed in the windows each morning and secured in the vault each night.

The plot thickens when Zach Bear notices a necklace left behind in the window after closing. Driven by a sense of responsibility, he endeavors to secure the necklace, but faces the challenge of the vault’s code. He ultimately falls asleep near the vault, necklace in tow, only to be discovered by the store team who commend his efforts. This experience establishes Zach Bear’s role in ensuring the store’s security each night.

From Gift to Storybook Character

Zach Bear is not a new character to Zachary’s Jewelers’ clientele. The teddy bear is a special gift provided to families expecting a new baby, whether as a push present or in celebration of a client’s life milestones, such as purchasing an engagement ring. These gifts often include a care package with the bear dressed in a Zachary’s T-shirt, a personalized welcome note, and sometimes a treat for the family.

Polamalu was inspired to write the book by her own son’s attachment to his Zach Bear. She stated, “a combination of loving my children and loving reading to them but also loving all of the children that come into the store.” She finds joy in observing how children perceive the jewelry store differently from adults, appreciating her role as a family jeweler.

Embracing Failure and Fostering Connections

A key theme Polamalu intentionally included is the concept of not always succeeding. “As a mother, I like my children to know that failure happens and it’s okay,” she explained. “If you know what the right thing to do is, you should still try to do it and there’s still honor in not getting something done.”

Designed for preschool-aged children, the book serves as a complementary piece to the Zach Bear gifts. It aims to forge an early connection between children and the Zach Bear character, creating memories that may foster loyalty as they grow. Polamalu expressed optimism: “I’m betting that if a child grows up playing in this jewelry store and feeling really comfortable here, when it does come time for them to get engaged, I can’t imagine they’re going to go anywhere else.”

Zachary’s Jewelers positions itself as a lifestyle brand focused on “family, community and legacy,” a philosophy that extends beyond transactions. Polamalu describes this as bringing “humanity to retail,” emphasizing that relationships with clients extend beyond the point of sale.

Book Launch and Availability

‘Zach Bear and the Window Necklace’ is not available for purchase. Although valued at $34.99, the book will be distributed as a gift to Zachary’s Jewelers customers at the discretion of the sales team and based on availability. The 24-page book officially debuted on April 19 with a special book launch and signing event held at Zachary’s Jewelers in Annapolis. The event featured a reading of the story and a brunch with Polamalu.

Illustrations and In-Store Experience

Polamalu collaborated with illustrator Nick Nikiforou, whom she described as a “very talented friend.” She noted that his familiarity with the store’s atmosphere was crucial in capturing its essence, stating, “I don’t think an illustrator who had never experienced the magic of our team or our store could have ever produced what Nick has.” His illustrations are said to evoke a sense of magic and resonate with her inner child, reminiscent of her favorite childhood book, ‘Madeline.’

This child-centric approach is also reflected in the in-store experience at Zachary’s Jewelers, which includes a ‘kiddie case’ with small treasures and a collection of magnatiles for young visitors. Polamalu affirmed, “We really mean it when we say children are welcome inside our store.”