Life & Work with John & Amy Perri of Shelby township

Today we’d like to introduce you to John & Amy Perri

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Johnny’s Treasure Quest: A Legacy of Adventure and Innovation
Johnny’s Treasure Quest, founded by Johnny (Johnnys Treasure Quest) and Amy (AmyAfterDark) Perri, is a vibrant testament to their passion for adventure and their entrepreneurial spirit. This dynamic duo has been captivating treasure hunters across Michigan with their unique and immersive treasure hunts since 2020. But their story is deeply rooted in a rich history of craftsmanship and resilience.
For 24 years, Johnny; and in later years Amy ran J & M Jewelers, a well-respected jewelry business in the Metro Detroit area, known for its exquisite craftsmanship and commitment to quality & the customer experience. Their expertise and dedication to their craft earned them a cherished place in their community. However, like many businesses, J & M Jewelers faced unprecedented challenges during the pandemic shutdown. The crisis forced Johnny and Amy to pivot and rethink their future.
Inspired by the legendary Forrest Fenn, who sparked a nationwide treasure hunt with his hidden cache, Johnny and Amy envisioned a new venture that combined their love for adventure with their entrepreneurial acumen. Thus, Johnny’s Treasure Quest was born—a series of real-life treasure hunts and adventures across the state of Michigan.
Since its inception, Johnny’s Treasure Quest has become a sensation, offering treasure seekers of all ages the chance to embark on thrilling quests. Highlights of their innovative endeavors include the annual JTQ Silver Ticket Chocolate Bars, which have added a sweet twist to the treasure-hunting experience, and the annual Great American Treasure Hunt held in the 60,000 acre scenic Porcupine Mountains of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. These events draw participants from near and far, eager to explore the beautiful landscapes of Michigan while solving clues and uncovering hidden treasures.
Johnny and Amy Perri’s journey from jewelry store to treasure & adventures is a testament to their resilience and creativity. Their adventures not only provide excitement and entertainment but also forge lasting memories for those who join their quests. Through Johnny’s Treasure Quest, they continue to inspire and engage with a new generation of explorers, all while celebrating the spirit of discovery and the thrill of the hunt.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Overcoming obstacles in pioneering a new business creation like Johnny’s Treasure Quest, where we had to write the book because it had never been done before, was no small feat. Not only did we have to think creatively and outside the box, but we also had to face skepticism from others who doubted the viability of our venture. However, through determination, resilience, and hard work, we were able to push past these challenges and create a solid foundation for our business. The experience has taught us valuable lessons in perseverance and the importance of believing in our vision.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We organize real-life treasure hunts and adventures for communities throughout Michigan! Johnny and Amy personally handpick the treasures to be hidden, choose public access locations where the treasure or proxy item will be concealed, and then get to work creating the riddles or designing the treasure maps. In today’s age of AI and Google, crafting a solvable challenge that remains unsearchable can be quite a task to uphold the integrity of the adventure. Once the riddle is released to our treasure hunters, we maintain a private group for them to share their experiences, ask questions, and exchange photos of their escapades. Our community of treasure hunters has bonded during the most challenging times in our world’s history, and we have discovered that our motto holds true: “The treasure lies in the adventure.” We are known for our integrity & transparency, our unique riddle writing skills, and our spirit of adventure.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
In addition to launching Johnny’s Treasure Quest in 2020, Johnny and Amy also celebrated their marriage in the same year, amidst the shutdown. Opting for a simple ceremony in their apartment, they exchanged vows with only their children and parents in attendance, officiated by Johnny’s son. Beyond their thrilling adventure-based business, Johnny and Amy lead a modest life surrounded by their large, blended family. With one son, five daughters, and the care of their nephews, they embrace the joys and challenges of parenting with love and dedication. Adding to their growing family, they are eagerly anticipating the arrival of a grandchild, further enriching their lives with love and happiness.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://JohnnysTreasureQuest.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnnys_treasure_quest?igsh=MXdmaWVjYWQyMHBncg==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/564FY9RtzTd1za8r/?mibextid=K35XfP
• Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/johnnystreasurequest
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnnystreasurequest?_t=8pCByAhcTjG&_r=1