I used to think meeting clients outside the shop was unprofessional and risky... Then a family emergency had me doing a quick valuation at their kitchen table. Having my loupe and scale in a go-bag made it smooth, and they were so grateful. Now I see how flexible service can really build client loyalty.
Was fixing a loose sapphire last week. My neighbor, a retired jeweler, stopped by. He showed me a trick with beeswax to hold stones in place. Never thought of that. Works like a charm now.