Step into the light and airy store of A Pawn USA and you would never suspect you’re in a pawn shop. Located in the heart of Clermont, FL; A Pawn USA is a world apart from the typical storefront pawn shops. This is what Josh and Gina had envisioned from the start.
Well, let's back track a few years. Josh and Gina had always envisioned owning there own business; something they could pass on to their boys. Now, visions and ideas sounded great, but it was a matter of the two of them agreeing on what would be their next business venture.
Josh, with his knowledge of jewelry and diamonds wanted to open a high-end jewelry store. Gina, with her nursing background wanted to open a facility for senior citizens. You can only imagine, how a 'Jewelry Senior Center' would work out. Of course, not thrilled with Josh's blithe idea, Gina decided to stretch the vision even more. Both ideas very strong, yet so broad is - what brought them to a 'buy, sell, and trade' store. Josh could use his knowledge of jewelry and diamonds, while Gina could reach out and help everyone who came into the store. Sounds like the perfect idea!
Perfection was spoken too soon. Josh and Gina acquired a building, but at first and with all new business owners; it was empty and slow. Josh and Gina had to pull their own jewelry collection, while Gina's dad gave them antiques and home goods to fill the store. This was their foundation to their business venture.
Within the first few months, Josh and Gina were able to assist many families financially by purchasing their unwanted items. This opportunity gave their customers extra cash to pay for things such as electric bills and car payments.
Josh and Gina adored their customers and loved to hear their stories. Some were quite happy and had an interesting history behind an item, while others were very grief-stricken and heart breaking.
The first year of business definitely had it's ups and downs and twists and turns. Josh and Gina were using their own profit to purchase items at yard sales and auctions to resell and bring in more business. There were even some months that Josh and Gina didn't know if they were going to make their rent for the building. They persevered and left no stone unturned.
Every morning was a new day and a new way Josh and Gina could help someone else.
Almost a year past the anniversary of when they first opened the doors, they reached their pivotal moment. They new from that point forward this would be their path. They would continue to help customers keep food on their table, pay their bills on time, and keep a roof over their head by purchasing their unwanted items for instant cash.
This was the moral they would live by and share with their boys.
Every day is a new opportunity and a new way to help someone else's life.
Don't give up on what you want most, the beginning is always the hardest.
