MEET JO McCAWLEY OF JOALLIERE SILVER, HOYLAKE MY JOURNEY FROM NURSE TO HANDMADE JEWELLERY
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MEET JO McCAWLEY OF JOALLIERE SILVER, HOYLAKE MY JOURNEY FROM NURSE TO HANDMADE JEWELLERY
After nearly 30 years as a dual-registered nurse, working across various specialties from bedside care to management, I embarked on an unexpected journey into entrepreneurship. It all started with selling silver jewellery at artisan craft fairs, a creative outlet that provided a refreshing contrast to the structure of healthcare.
By September 2019, I felt it was time to step away from nursing and explore a new chapter in my life. Little did I know that my departure would be short-lived. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, I was called back to the emergency register to support the healthcare system during an unprecedented crisis. Like many others, I returned to the front lines, and over the following years, I transitioned back into management. However, despite my dedication to nursing, I missed the artisan fairs and wanted something more creative.
When COVID-19 restrictions eased, I started attending markets again. At one I first met Wai San Lett, and together, we co-founded Celestial Events. Our vision was to create vibrant artisan markets and fairs, and we soon began collaborating with Flintshire County Council, Wirral charities, and various venues. Last year we were invited to create an event market at the Cosmic Cape Music Festival in Capenhurst. Celestial Events has since grown into a thriving business, providing a platform for talented artisans and small businesses to showcase their work.
Leaving a structured career without a safety net was daunting, but looking back, it remains my proudest achievement. Running a market stall alongside my nursing career had introduced me to the world of business, but it wasn’ t until I fully stepped away from healthcare that I could immerse myself in the creative process.
On 23rd November 2023, I took another major step and opened my own jewellery shop, Joalliere Silver, on Market Street in Hoylake. This location holds deep personal significance— my grandmother was born here into a well-known Hoylake family, and opening a business Hoylake feels like coming full circle. Some of my family still live in the area, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a welcoming and supportive community.
Market Street is home to fantastic independent businesses, and it’ s heartwarming to see customers making the effort to shop local. Even more excitingly, word of mouth has brought visitors from further afield, eager to discover what we have to offer.
Since then Jewellery has become my true passion. I have been training as a silversmith, allowing me not only to design but also to handcraft some of my own pieces, adding a personal touch to the collections at Joalliere Silver. Whether designing my own pieces, discovering new designers, or sourcing unique products, I love every aspect of the craft. Joalliere Silver carries European designer brands, an award-winning pearl jewellery line, and stunning creations from British designers.
Having a physical shop has also allowed me to support other small businesses, stocking locally made products that align with my values of craftsmanship and quality.
Jewellery is deeply personal— whether it’ s a self-purchase or a heartfelt gift, every piece tells a story. At Joalliere Silver, we take pride in helping customers find that perfect item. Our offerings extend beyond silver jewellery, which remains my speciality. We also provide fine jewellery by appointment, as well as remodelling services, repairs, and memorial jewellery to create meaningful keepsakes. Handmade or sourced, traditional or contemporary— I like to think there’ s something here for everyone.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my business is the impact it has on the local community. By hosting and participating in artisan markets, I’ ve been able to support fellow entrepreneurs and bring people together. Seeing customers return, forming relationships with designers and makers, and playing a role in a thriving high street gives me an immense sense of pride.
For women considering stepping into entrepreneurship, my advice is simple: believe in yourself and take the leap. It’ s never easy to leave behind security and familiarity, but the rewards of building something you’ re passionate about are immeasurable. Add the personal touches – the name of my business is a play on my name and the French word for Jeweller- I love everything French! Surround yourself with supportive people, be willing to learn, and don’ t be afraid of making mistakes— they are just steps on the path to success.
My next big challenge is launching our website, an exciting step that will allow us to reach even more people and share our collections online. Looking ahead, I hope to expand our offerings, collaborate with more local artisans, and continue making Joalliere Silver a destination for unique and meaningful jewellery.
Transitioning from nursing to running events and a creative business hasn’ t been easy, but every challenge has been an opportunity for growth. The support from the Hoylake community has made this journey worthwhile, and every day reminds me that it’ s never too late to reinvent yourself and pursue what you truly love.
Joalliere Silver. 28A Market St, Hoylake, Wirral CH47 2AF T: 0151 739 6645 W: www. bemyjeweller. com E: enquiries @ bemyjeweller. com
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