Helping Charities – Selling Jewelry

The Shinnston News and Harrison County Journal, in conjunction with North Central West Virginia Airport, has named Michelene Sheppard’s Park Lane Jewelry as June’s Business of the Month.

Though not a traditional brick and mortar business, Park Lane Jewelry, with Bridgeport’s Michelene Sheppard serving as Senior Division Fashion Director, has made quite the impression on Harrison County.  The company, based in Chicago, is a main sponsor for Dancing with The Stars, making it one of the most recognized brands in Hollywood. Sheppard took an unconventional pathway to her position but knew all along that she wanted to use the business to benefit local charities.

Sheppard moved to Harrison County with CNG Gas Company and worked as a chemical and petroleum engineer, converting vehicles to dual-fuel and was instrumental in the installation of the first natural gas public fueling station east of the Mississippi.  After her sons were born, she wanted to have a more flexible schedule, which launched her into a 22-year career with Longaberger.  After one of her son’s extended illness, she decided to start working with the Park Lane Company after they pursued her to expand the brand on the east coast.

“The Park Lane family offers flexibility, travel opportunities, amazing customer service, and great quality jewelry,” said Sheppard.

With her new-found flexibility, Sheppard immersed herself in community service, organizing National Skateboarding Day with Shinnston businesses, creating the Parade of Champions to recognize Bridgeport youth, and volunteering over 100 hours with her son’s school, earning her the Presidential Volunteer Award.  She also served in many capacities in her church, including choir, lecturing, teaching, and leadership positions.

Sheppard is now known as the “Bingo Lady” around Harrison County.  She started the trend to have merchandise bingo games as fundraisers for local charities, first with Longaberger and now with Park Lane Jewelry.  The no-risk fundraising strategies have helped school groups, church groups and civic organizations raise thousands of dollars and has allowed her to raise awareness of the oldest jewelry company in the United States.  She also holds special events, participates in vendor shows, and displays at local venues and shops.

To celebrate her upcoming birthday, Sheppard is offering special deals for Shinnston News readers.  She will give one free piece of jewelry to each person who schedules a qualified get-together or get four items half price after purchasing two smaller items.  Additional information is available on her website, www.myparklane.com/msheppard.