We are the second-oldest independently owned jewelry store in the United States, a title we do not take lightly.
We understand we wouldn’t be able to share that incredible accolade if it were not for the talented and dedicated team we have at Merkley Kendrick, and while the faces have changed over the 100+ years of business, we are proud to call this crew our work family. We invite you to visit with us, and one of our knowledgeable jewelry experts will be happy to assist.
BRIAN MERKLEY
President & CEO
“One of the joys of my work is being a part of the special occasions in people’s lives. Having the opportunity to share in their joy as they celebrate brings meaning to my work, and I treasure the relationships I’ve developed over the years through these experiences.”
Brian Merkley spent many of his early years at Merkley Kendrick Jewelers along with his siblings. Upon graduating from Trinity High School and then Loyola University in 1995, Brian began working full time at the family business. He served as Vice-President until 2006 when he became the President of Merkley Kendrick, and is proud to continue to serve the Louisville and surrounding community as he carries on the family tradition.
Nanette Merkley Vale
CFO
“I like being part of such a long-standing tradition and want to be a part of making that continue.”
Nanette Merkley Vale started working at Merkley Kendrick Jewelers as a teenager in high school. Nanette graduated from Sacred Heart Academy and began working full time at Merkley Kendrick Jewelers in 1988 while continuing to earn her degree from the University of Louisville. She is GIA certified in Diamonds and Diamond Grading. Formerly a sales consultant and office manager, she is now the Chief Financial Officer and Director of Inventory Management.
Mark Redmon
CGA
“I take great personal satisfaction in presenting pieces that are superior and reflect exceptional quality vs. just a price point. It is a real pleasure when I get to take part in the happiness and expression of people’s love. I am pleased to present something that is exquisitely made for these special occasions.”
Mark Redmon has spent most of his career in the jewelry industry and has been with Merkley Kendrick since 1998. Mark brings a keen interest and knowledge in vintage and estate jewelry. Mark is a graduate of Westport High School and the University of Kentucky and has received certifications as an American Gem Society Registered Jeweler, Certified Gemologist, Certified Gemologist Appraiser, GIA Graduate Gemologist Appraiser, and Jewelry Insurance Appraisal Institute Certified Insurance Appraiser.
Matt Parrish
Director of Sales
“I started working in a family-owned jewelry business, and each day the owner taught me something new. Now at Merkley Kendrick after many years, I still find exceeding the expectations of my customers always satisfying. I take pride in making sure the small things are taken care of because to others those things can be big. I like working where my customers are proud that their purchase came from Merkley Kendrick Jewelers.”
Matt Parrish comes to Merkley Kendrick Jewelers from Michigan where he worked for more than 18 years in the jewelry industry. He is a native of Louisville, attended Male High School and joined Merkley Kendrick in 2011. Matt is a GIA-Accredited Jewelry Professional in Essentials, Gemstones, and Diamonds.
Rachel Keens
Fine Jewelry & Timepieces Consultant
“Engagements, anniversaries, births, graduations; it is an honor to be a part of such happy occasions in peoples' lives. It is a great joy to help facilitate people communicating their love and joy through a piece of jewelry.”
Rachel began her jewelry career with Merkley Kendrick Jewelers in 2012 by way of South Oldham High School and the University of Kentucky. She has completed GIA studies and is a GIA-Accredited Jewelry Professional in Essentials, Gemstones, Diamonds and Diamond Grading. Rachel brings a keen eye for repurposing clients' gems into new pieces to suit their current lifestyles.
Alex Wallace
Graduate Gemologist, Appraiser & Consultant
“This is such an exciting, fascinating, and endearing business. I feel very fortunate to be part of a company that has not only a wonderful history and great people, but also an impeccable reputation for quality and selection.”
Alex comes to Merkley Kendrick by way of Chicago, where he was the Staff Gemologist and Fine Timepiece Specialist for a significant Mid-West auction house. He brings nearly 15 years of experience in the fine jewelry and watch industry. Alex is a graduate of Homestead High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana and received his GIA Graduate Gemologist Diploma in 2014 in Carlsbad, California.
Selby Barker
Bench Jeweler & Stone Setter
“I love working on the beautiful pieces at Merkley Kendrick Jewelers. I see so many beautiful gems and exquisite designs.”
Selby’s parents owned a jewelry store in Louisiana, and he grew up around the business. He then studied at the Texas Institute of Jewelry Arts and Technology and is GIA certified in Diamonds and Diamond Grading. After Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, he felt as though life there was too unsettled. Selby decided it was time to relocate and Merkley Kendrick was looking for a jeweler. He joined the team and moved to Louisville in 2008.