BREAKING: Former Oakwood jewelry store has a new tenant

The former Wm. Rife Co. Jewelers store at 2411 Far Hills Avenue in the Shops of Oakwood — vacant for the last 18 months — has a new tenant that won’t have to move very far to fill the space.

Gregory's Salon and Day Spa of Oakwood leased the 2,400-square-foot space late Monday and will begin renovations immediately with an eye toward opening in the coming months, owner Gregory Moore told this news outlet today.

“We have a signed contract. Now it’s time to remodel,” Moore said. “We’re hoping to open by Feb. 1, and if not, then by March 1 for sure.”

The new location will offer much greater visibility and a street-level storefront presence that will better accommodate walk-ins, Moore said.

The current Gregory’s Salon and Day Spa is on the second floor of the 2600 Far Hills Professional Building across the street and a couple of blocks south of the former jewelry store. Moore said he is exploring the possibility of retaining a portion of the space that he currently leases in the building at 2600 Far Hills Ave. (Ohio 48)

The Gregory’s founder said the open space of the new shop will allow him to add two to four stylists or other specialists to the 10 who already serve clients at Gregory’s.

Gregory’s, which was founded three years ago and moved to Oakwood a year and a half ago, offers hair styling, manicures/pedicures, waxing, massage, and other services.

Wm. Rife Co. Jewelers shut down in mid-2015 after nearly eight decades in business. Third-generation owners Sheryl Rife Merker and Christine Rife Depew say that increased competition from other jewelry stores in the area and jewelry web sites, along with their desire to retire, were the primary factors in their decision.

RELATED: Oakwood jeweler to close after 78 years

About the Author