AJS-U FULL SCHEDULE
Expanded Education like this, only happens once a year, at one show, the spring SoHo Experience by AJS.
This is a MUST-ATTEND SHOW!
FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2024 (Pre-Show Afternoon Education)
Jason Champion
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
THE ART OF HOROLOGY: HANDS-ON WITH MECHANICAL & QUARTZ WATCHES
Presented by Jason Champion, CW21, AWCI
Room 104
Understanding what goes on with a watch can be very complicated. There are many different types of movements and complications, and many different watch customers during this 90-minute presentation. The watch experts at the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute talk about what goes on under the crystal of the watch. There will be hands-on sections in the presentation that will provide a deeper understanding of the different types of movements in watches and how they are serviced, including tooling for the job. Attendees will better understand what watchmakers do at the bench to strengthen the relationship between the store and the customer of luxury and sentimental watches of all types.
William Jones
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
MASTERCLASS: BE TRUE TO YOUR BRAND. A WORKSHOP & COLLABORATION ON SELLING
Presented by: William Jones, Jewelry Sales Academy & Sissy's Log Cabin
Room 105
This masterclass is more than just a learning experience; it's a transformative journey for your brand. You'll leave with a clear game plan, actionable strategies, and a deeper understanding of how to align your store's experience with your brand's true essence. Don't miss this opportunity to redefine your brand and connect more authentically with your customers.
- We will take a deep dive into:
- Understanding Customer Expectations
- Crafting the In-Store Experience
- Creating a Brand-Experience Action Plan
Grant Hansen
2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
CYBER SECURITY - THREAT PREDICTIONS & STEPS TO PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS
Presented by: Grant Hansen, Jewelers Mutual Group
Room 105
The threats are real, growing, and can happen to you. This session will give you the necessary protections to safeguard your business. Grant Hansen will give you real-life scenarios of cyber attacks, how they happened, how businesses were affected, and preventative steps to take now. You have the free resources and tools for training your staff with the online Safety and Security Academy offered by Jewelers Mutual Group. Find out what these resources are during this session.
Marty Hurwitz
4:00 PM - 4:45 PM
THE STATE OF THE LAB-GROWN DIAMOND MARKET TODAY
Presented by: Marty Hurwitz, CMO, Kira Jewels
Room 105
Marty will present a detailed overview of what is happening at all levels of the LGD product pipeline- from grower to consumer. He will provide insights on who is thriving and why and show real-time examples of best practices of jewelry retailers succeeding in the category. Marty will also provide a sneak peek into the future and make bold predictions of where the LGD category is going.
Jason Champion
4:45 PM - 5:45 PM
HOW TO BECOME SPECIALISTS IN THE BUSINESS OF WATCHES
Presented by Jason Champion, CW21, AWCI
Room 104
The watch business can be intimidating. Understanding the watch customer is a big part of the plan for success. Watch sales and repair present stores with unique challenges separate from those of the jewelry and diamond business. During this 60-minute presentation, the watch experts at the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute talk about how to make money with watches, including everything from initial contact with the watch customer, including take-in, battery replacement, and band sizing, to connecting with high-end collectors and identifying fake watches. AWCI will demonstrate how basic watch repairs, including watch battery replacement and band sizing, will bring value to your store through training and how some simple tips and techniques will help you avoid mistakes that eat into your profits. Whether you buy, sell, or repair watches, you will want to listen as AWCI shares their knowledge on how to determine whether luxury watches are genuine or fake and how to connect with the knowledgeable and wealthy watch collector in a way that encourages them to bring repeat business.
Guy Borenstein
5:00 PM - 5:45 PM
DETECTING LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS (UPDATE!)
Presented by: Guy Borenstein, Stuller, Inc.
Room 105
The hot lab-grown diamond trend shows no sign of cooling off, and the independent jeweler needs to understand the technical side of lab-grown diamonds to protect themselves and their customers. Media attention to the increased prevalence of undisclosed lab-grown diamonds has fueled consumer awareness and skepticism. In this presentation, learn about the formation processes of both natural and lab-grown origins, their visible and non-visible unique properties, and the common screening technologies used for separating them. Most importantly, learn the limitations and blind spots of each screening method so you can build trust with your customers, present all diamonds with transparency, and avoid unnecessary damage to your reputation.
ICEBREAKER SOCIAL
6:00 - 7:30 PM
ICEBREAKER SOCIAL
Renaissance Waverly Hotel Atrium
Sip on a cocktail and engage in meaningful conversations with industry peers, experts, and
potential collaborators. Let the good times flow.
SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2024 (SHOW: SHOPPING & SESSIONS)
MORNING MINGLE!
8:30 - 9:30 AM
NEW! MORNING MINGLE
The Gallery - Downstairs at the Cobb Galleria Centre
Yes, it is true. The bagels are back! Join us for breakfast refreshments, an overview of what's happening on the show floor, and a schedule of social events. While networking at this friendly event, meet the SoHo Pros! What is a SoHo Pro? SoHo stands for Sothern Hospitality. Pro represents an industry specialist with knowledge and experience to share with you. Join just as you make new friends and visit with old friends. What a great way to start your morning!
Jason Champion
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
PROFITABLE WATCH BATTERY REPLACEMENT
Presented by: Jason Champion, CW21, AWCI
AWCI Mobile Classroom
Join AWCI at our Join AWCI at our Mobile Classroom as we demonstrate how watch battery replacement can be a profit generator for your store. Learn hands-on how to avoid costly pitfalls and transform your watch battery replacements into your most profitable part of the day. AWCI Certified Watchmakers will demonstrate tools & techniques to build success with watch battery replacement and watch repair.
Limited to 8 participants in the mobile classroom. First come, first served.
The AWCI sessions will be broadcast outside the Mobile classroom with seating available.
Rémy Rotenier
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
MASTERCLASS: HOW TO DRAW DIAMONDS
Presented by: Rémy Rotenier, Rémy Rotenier, Inc.
Sketch Studio - Show Floor
This 3-hour class will focus on learning how to render diamonds. Seating is limited. Register to reserve your seat.
Learn from a master! Jewelry designer and artist Rémy Rotenier will guide you through the steps to draw the round brilliant diamond that will give a realistic guide to start your important diamond jewelry rendering for your customer. The students will be given a kit that includes everything they will need, from pencils, erasers, paper stumps, and more.
There is a clear resurgence in the appreciation for jewelry art in our industry, which doesn’t conflict with the advantages CAD design brings as a second step of production.
Any one of us can develop and refine our drawing skills. Drawing a jewelry design live in front of a client solidifies the collaboration, brings trust, and is beautiful! Rémy will introduce this session with a brief discussion of several important points:
- How freehand design benefits both clients and the designer
- Why freehand designs are so beautiful that clients keep and frame their jewelry renderings
- How freehand drawing helps the production process and provides a better sense of scale
- Why the discipline of drawing refines a designer’s creativity
After Rémy’s introduction to these topics, participants will dive in, grab their pencils, and get designing with step-by-step instructions!
John Hartke,
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
CAD CORNER
Presented by: John Hartke, Jewel-Craft
At the Bench - Show Floor
Step into the future of jewelry design with John Hartke, a visionary artist at the intersection of craftsmanship and technology. John goes beyond the ordinary, seamlessly incorporating 3D printing and modern techniques into his workflow. As a versatile professional, his diverse background creates a unique blend of traditional artistry and cutting-edge technology. Join us for an exclusive experience as John Hartke unveils the art of bringing innovative and exquisite jewelry creations to life through captivating CAD demos. Don't miss the chance to witness the fusion of tradition and technology at the Cad Corner – it's where creativity knows no bounds!
Joel McFadden & William McFadden
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
THE PROFITABLE SHOP - LIVE DEMOS & SHOP TALK
Presented by: Joel McFadden & William McFadden, Joel McFadden Design
At the Bench - Show Floor
Meet Joel McFadden and his son William as they demonstrate the latest tools and techniques for success at the bench. they will show you time-saving procedures for setting, soldering, and engraving. 
Have questions about lasers, laser engravers, stone setting, and jewelry repair? Bring your questions to Joel and William as they demo and explain best practices at the jeweler's bench. Tools, topics, and techniques will vary throughout the day. Discussions include what it takes to run a profitable shop. You can even talk about how to price repair and custom work. Find out the dos and don’ts laser engraving and for permanent jewelry!
Jason Champion
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
OPENING & CLOSING DIFFICULT WATCH CASES
Presented by Jason Champion, CW21, AWCI
AWCI Mobile Classroom
Most watch cases open and close easily, but we have all experienced the stubborn watch case. Get hands-on with the latest tools as Certified Master Watchmaker Tom Schomaker shares the tips and techniques he has learned working in every segment of the watch industry. In this hands-on seminar, you will see how the proper tools and some simple techniques will make you successful in opening and closing almost every watch case.
Limited to 8 participants in the mobile classroom. First come, first served.
The AWCI sessions will be broadcast outside the Mobile classroom with seating available.
Rémy Rotenier
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
MASTERCLASS: HOW TO DRAW A SOLITAIRE RING
Presented by: Rémy Rotenier, Rémy Rotenier, Inc.
Sketch Studio - Show Floor
This 3-hour class will focus on learning how to render a diamond ring in perspective. Seating is limited. Register to reserve your seat.
Learn from a master! Jewelry designer and artist Remy Rotenier will guide you through the steps to draw the round brilliant diamond ring that will give a realistic guide to start your important diamond jewelry rendering for your customer.
The students will be given a kit that includes everything they will need, from pencils, erasers, paper stumps, and more.
"It's really important if you sell custom jewelry to learn how to draw a little bit," says Rotenier. "Even in this era of so many digital design options, the ability to free-hand draw is impressive. You can get into clients' heads and deliver the individualized design they want. When you sketch in real-time, you also gain their trust that you have skills as a jewelry artist. You've shown them that you're not afraid to grab a piece of paper and start drawing. It gives clients a greater level of respect for the complexity and detail that go into creating a piece of jewelry. And there's no question it will help you close more sales.
Jason Champion
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
HOW TO SIZE WATCH BRACELETS
Presented by Jason Champion, CW21, AWCI
AWCI Mobile Classroom
After this hands-on seminar on watch bracelet adjustment, you can adjust the length of a bracelet on the first try every time without any struggle. Join AWCI and our Certified Watchmakers as we offer advice and demonstrate how to measure and size a watch bracelet. Get hands-on with the latest tools to assist in removing links of all types.
Limited to 8 participants in the mobile classroom. First come, first served.
The AWCI sessions will be broadcast outside the Mobile classroom with seating available.
8:00 PM - 11:30 PM
SATURDAY NIGHT "SOCIAL"
Renaissance Waverly Hotel, Kennesaw Ballroom
Our Saturday night "Socials" brings together the AJS family. This is the perfect place for attendees to socialize and unwind while enjoying a night of cocktails, appetizers, cocktails, and more!
SUNDAY, MARCH 17, 2024 (SHOW: SHOPPING & SESSIONS)
MORNING MINGLE!
8:30 - 9:30 AM
NEW! MORNING MINGLE
The Gallery - Downstairs at the Cobb Galleria Centre
Yes, it is true. The bagels are back! Join us for breakfast refreshments, an overview of what's happening on the show floor, and a schedule of social events. While networking at this friendly event, meet the SoHo Pros! What is a SoHo Pro? SoHo stands for Sothern Hospitality. Pro represents an industry specialist with knowledge and experience to share with you. Join just as you make new friends and visit with old friends. What a great way to start your morning!
9:30 - 10:30 AM
AGS ATLANTA/SOUTHEASTERN GUILDS MEETING (Open to AJS Attendees)
Presented by: Brock Wilke, Gemological Institute of America
ROOM 104
Special Presentation: The Frontier of Diamond Cut
A few years ago, GIA and the American Gem Society began collaboration on a fancy-shape cut grading system. We formalized that partnership at the end of 2022, combining the two research teams as one. This united team extended the research into fancy-shaped diamond cuts and designs. This session will explore the steps GIA is taking toward this avenue of research. We will explore our evolving understanding of the link between light performance and taste. Finally, the implementation of new cut-related products and how GIA can support the manufacturing process.
Jason Champion
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
PROFITABLE WATCH BATTERY REPLACEMENT
Presented by: Jason Champion, CW21, AWCI
AWCI Mobile Classroom
Join AWCI at our Join AWCI at our Mobile Classroom as we demonstrate how watch battery replacement can be a profit generator for your store. Learn hands-on how to avoid costly pitfalls and transform your watch battery replacements into your most profitable part of the day. AWCI Certified Watchmakers will demonstrate tools & techniques to build success with watch battery replacement and watch repair.
Limited to 8 participants in the mobile classroom. First come, first served.
The AWCI sessions will be broadcast outside the Mobile classroom with seating available.
Rémy Rotenier
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
MASTERCLASS: HOW TO DRAW PEARLS
Presented by: Rémy Rotenier, Rémy Rotenier, Inc.
Sketch Studio - Show Floor
This 3-hour class will focus on learning how to render diamonds. Seating is limited. Register to reserve your seat.
Utilizing the same basic tools as jewelers did hundreds of years ago, such as pencils, erasers, etc., designing by hand creates a real connection between you and the design and with your customers. All supplies for this session are furnished.
There is a clear resurgence in the appreciation for jewelry art in our industry, which doesn’t conflict with the advantages CAD design brings as a second step of production.
Any one of us can develop and refine our drawing skills. Drawing a jewelry design live in front of a client solidifies the collaboration, brings trust, and is beautiful!
Rémy will introduce this session with a brief discussion of several important points:
- How freehand design benefits both clients and the designer
- Why freehand designs are so beautiful that clients keep and frame their jewelry renderings
- How freehand drawing helps the production process and provides a better sense of scale
- Why the discipline of drawing refines a designer’s creativity
- After Rémy’s introduction to these topics, participants will dive in, grab their pencils, and get designing with step- by-step instructions
After Rémy’s introduction to these topics, participants will dive in, grab their pencils, and get designing with step-by-step instructions!
Joel McFadden & William McFadden
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
THE PROFITABLE SHOP - LIVE DEMOS & SHOP TALK
Presented by: Joel McFadden & William McFadden, Joel McFadden Design
At the Bench - Show Floor
Meet Joel McFadden and his son William as they demonstrate the latest tools and techniques for success at the bench. they will show you time-saving procedures for setting, soldering, and engraving. Have questions about lasers, laser engravers, stone setting, and jewelry repair? Bring your questions to Joel and William as they demo and explain best practices at the jeweler's bench. Tools, topics, and techniques will vary throughout the day. Discussions include what it takes to run a profitable shop. You can even talk about how to price repair and custom work. Find out the dos and don’ts laser engraving and for permanent jewelry!
Jason Champion
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
OPENING & CLOSING DIFFICULT WATCH CASES
Presented by Jason Champion, CW21, AWCI
AWCI Mobile Classroom
Most watch cases open and close easily, but we have all experienced the stubborn watch case. Get hands-on with the latest tools as Certified Master Watchmaker Tom Schomaker shares the tips and techniques he has learned working in every segment of the watch industry. In this hands-on seminar, you will see how the proper tools and some simple techniques will make you successful in opening and closing almost every watch case.
Limited to 8 participants in the mobile classroom. First come, first served.
The AWCI sessions will be broadcast outside the Mobile classroom with seating available.
Rémy Rotenier
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
MASTERCLASS: HOW TO DRAW A PEARL PENDANT
Presented by: Rémy Rotenier, Rémy Rotenier, Inc.
Sketch Studio - Show Floor
This 3-hour class will focus on learning how to render diamonds. Seating is limited. Register to reserve your seat.
Bring out your inner artist with Remy's step-by-step instructions on drawing a part pendant. All tools for the class are provided. You will be amazed at what you can do once given the tools and method to approach putting a design on paper. Rémy will provide worksheets with designs that provide you with a method to start your jewelry renderings.
"It's really important if you sell custom jewelry to learn how to draw a little bit," says Rotenier. "Even in this era of so many digital design options, the ability to free-hand draw is impressive. You can get into clients' heads and deliver the individualized design they want. When you sketch in real-time, you also gain their trust that you have skills as a jewelry artist. You've shown them that you're not afraid to grab a piece of paper and start drawing. It gives clients a greater level of respect for the complexity and detail of creating a piece of jewelry. And there's no question it will help you close more sales."
After Rémy’s introduction to these topics, participants will dive in, grab their pencils, and get designing with step-by-step instructions!
Jason Champion
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
SIZING WATCH BANDS
Presented by Jason Champion, CW21, AWCI
AWCI Mobile Classroom
After this hands-on seminar on watch bracelet adjustment, you can adjust the length of a bracelet on the first try every time without any struggle. Join AWCI and our Certified Watchmakers as we offer advice and demonstrate how to measure and size a watch bracelet. Get hands-on with the latest tools to assist in removing links of all types.
Limited to 8 participants in the mobile classroom. First come, first served.
The AWCI sessions will be broadcast outside the Mobile classroom with seating available.
MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2024 (POST-SHOW: FULL DAY OF TRAINING)
NEW! Masterclass Monday is a MUST-ATTEND EVENT, offering tailored post-show training for stores and staff, focusing on all levels of skill development. Attendance at Monday Masterclasses require at least one representative from the store to attend the show to enable staff participation in the classes.
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
SOHO DEMOS & HANDS-ON TRAINING
9:00 - 9:30 AM
NEW! MORNING MINGLE
Meeting Room Pre-Function Area
Join us for breakfast refreshments, an overview of what's happening on the show floor, and a schedule of social events. While networking at this friendly event, meet the SoHo Pros! What is a SoHo Pro? SoHo stands for Sothern Hospitality. Pro represents an industry specialist with knowledge and experience to share with you. Join just as you make new friends and visit with old friends. What a great way to start your morning!
Jason Champion
9:30 PM - 10:30 PM
HOW TO BECOME A "SPECIALIST" IN THE WATCH BUSINESS
Presented by Jason Champion, CW21, AWCI
Room 102
The watch business can be intimidating. Understanding the watch customer is a big part of the plan for success. Watch sales and repair present stores with unique challenges separate from those of the jewelry and diamond business. During this 60-minute presentation, the watch experts at the American Watchmakers-Clockmakers Institute talk about how to make money with watches, including everything from initial contact with the watch customer, including take-in, battery replacement, and band sizing, to connecting with high-end collectors and identifying fake watches. AWCI will demonstrate how basic watch repairs, including watch battery replacement and band sizing, will bring value to your store through training and how some simple tips and techniques will help you avoid mistakes that eat into your profits. Whether you buy, sell, or repair watches, you will want to listen as AWCI shares their knowledge on how to determine whether luxury watches are genuine or fake and how to connect with the knowledgeable and wealthy watch collector in a way that encourages them to bring repeat business.
Limited to 8 participants in the mobile classroom. First come, first served.
The AWCI sessions will be broadcast outside the Mobile classroom with seating available.
Joel McFadden & William McFadden
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
ENGRAVING: A HANDS-ON WORKSHOP
Presented by: Joel McFadden & William McFadden, Joel McFadden Design
Room 106
A client with an engraved jewelry item quickly bonds with it and the event it emotionally represents. That's very special.
In this session, you will have a hands-on opportunity to try out a laser engraver. Find out how easy it is to meet the customer's request and develop a client for life.
Lyn Falk
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
SHOWCASING YOUR BRAND INSIDE YOUR BRICK & MORTAR
Presented by: Lyn Falk, Retailworks, Inc.
Room 105
Your brand is more than your logo and color scheme, it’s everything your customer experiences from the moment they step through your front door until they exit your store. Don’t miss this new way to look at your store’s layout, decor, lighting, signage, and sensory elements. Learn how to capitalize on bringing your traditional 2-D brand into the 3-D world.
Once you’ve heard Lyn Falk speak, you’ll never look at your store the same way again!
Note: If you’re a good steward of bringing your brand inside, please send Lyn a few photos ahead of her presentation. lfalk@retailworksinc.com
Jennifer Shaheen
9:30 AM - 11:45 AM
MASTERCLASS: ChatGPT MASTERY FOR JEWELRY PROFESSIONALS
Presented by: Jennifer Shaheen, Technology Therapy Group
Room 104
✨A laptop or tablet is required for this hands-on experience.
What you will learn and experience:
• ChatGPT Account Configuration: Step-by-step guidance for setting up your professional ChatGPT account.
• Enhancing Product Descriptions: Utilizing writing prompts to create compelling product narratives.
• Customer Service Excellence: Strategies for incorporating ChatGPT to improve customer interactions.
• Content Analysis: Techniques for using ChatGPT to analyze and extract key information from texts.
• Social Media Strategy: Best practices for employing ChatGPT in your social media endeavors.
• Professional Guidelines: Understanding the essential do’s and don’ts of ChatGPT application in the jewelry sector.
Scott Allred
10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
CUSTOMER SERVICE BEST PRACTICES
Presented by: Scott Allred, Sales Manager, Podium
Room 105
When it comes to jewelry sales, building relationships is a cornerstone of success. Scott Allred, Sales Manager – Jewelry at Podium, previously owned a jewelry store and recognized the importance of trusted relationships in the jewelry industry. Scott will share his informed perspective on:
· The state of the Jewelry market
· The top 5 Marketing strategies to increase sales
· How to enhance the customer experience to create a lifelong buyer
Joel McFadden & William McFadden
10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
PERMANENT JEWELRY - A BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
Presented by: Joel McFadden & William McFadden, Joel McFadden Design
Room 106
Permanent jewelry, also known as "Forever Jewelry," is jewelry the wearer never takes off. It is simply a necklace, anklet, or bracelet with no clasp. It is often used to demonstrate a long-term commitment. It is a favorite for bridal parties and as a demonstration of the connection of a group of friends or a show of individual style.
Find out how to hop on this popular trend. Welding is involved, as well as having the right materials available. Joel show you how the welding should be done, and then you will have the opportunity to practice welding yourself. Permanent jewelry is a popular trend that can help you build your prospects for other fine jewelry needs.
Justin VanMatre
10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
HOW TO EXECUTE SUCCESSFUL EVENTS
Presented by: Justin VanMatre, National Rarities
Room 102
We will discuss the details of the pre-event, during the event, and post-event that make it more successful. While many jewelry stores continue to search avenues to drive foot traffic and revenue through their doors, they will look to a special event. However, many do not see the return on time, energy, and money spent. We will discuss the different event options and the steps taken to improve the likelihood of a successful event. You will also hear about how a buying event works and if it is the right fit for your store.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
COMPLIMENTARY CHICK FIL-A LUNCH
Presented by: Justin VanMatre, National Rarities
Meeting Room Pre-Function Area
Joel McFadden & William McFadden
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
STONE SETTING: HAVE THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE RIGHT JOB
Presented by: Joel McFadden, Joel McFadden Designs
Room 106
Joel will unveil the secrets behind successful stone setting. From selecting the right tools to expert stone-setting tips, Joel will guide you through the art of precision and craftsmanship.
- Highlights of the Seminar:
- -Tools of the Trade: Discover the essential tools needed for flawless stone setting.
- -Hands-On Techniques: Get hands-on experience as Joel demonstrates expert stone setting techniques.
- -Q&A Session: Have burning questions? Joel's got the answers!
Whether you're a seasoned jeweler or just starting in the trade, this seminar is your ticket to unlocking the potential of your craft. Don't miss this chance to learn from a master craftsman and take your stone-setting skills to new heights.
George Prout
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
LABORATORY-GROWN DIAMOND UPDATE: A BUSINESS UPDATE & SURVIVAL GUIDE
Presented by: George Prout, Columnist for Southern Jewelry & Mid-America Jewelry News
Room 102
The advent of laboratory-grown diamonds (LGDs) has disrupted the jewelry retail sector, triggering a significant drop in Average Unit Bridal Retail sales. According to The Edge Retail Academy, in the past five months, there has been over a 30 percent drop in the Average Unit Price of Bridal Retail sales. This session addresses this crisis by providing strategies to maintain Average Unit Retail Value in the bridal category and identify alternative revenue streams to offset falling LGD prices.
This session will provide an update on holiday sales and review emerging trends in lab-grown diamond sales. Despite your current engagement with LGDs, this industry shift affects everyone. The session offers crucial insights into the evolving diamond market and strategic planning for this new business reality. It's an essential seminar for retailers to navigate the challenges brought by the rise of LGDs effectively.
Larry Johnson
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
MASTERCLASS - VISUAL MERCHANDISING WITH SELLING IN MIND
Presented by: Larry Johnson, Larry Johnson Consulting & Box Brokers
Room 105
Jewelry Display & Merchandising Workshop
Attend this workshop hosted by Larry Johnson, noted display expert and Box Brokers Group. During the first 45 minutes, you will learn how to make your displays generate more sales.
Major topics covered will include:
- How to best arrange merchandise in the showcases. How much merchandise should you show in your case? What kind of displays work best.
- What can I do with my displays to reduce loss due to theft or smash and grab events. How to use program trays in more cases to grow sales.
- What do I do with my wall cases and my windows. How to sell more of the pieces you want most to sell. When to use vendor displays and when not to.
- Better ways to speed up the put out and take down of the store each day. How to clean and keep your old displays looking fresh.
Larry will cover how to use the EDGE “Inventory Performance by Category” report to design a perfect store layout and merchandise needs. This session will have sample showcases setup where teams of attendees will set up cases to accommodate their best idea of a perfect case.
Following that, the group will discuss display and merchandising challenges presented by attendees, offering suggestions on solutions. Bring photos of your store to share with the group for FREE consultation advice and ideas.
Box Brokers will give away a gift card for $500 to an attendee at the end of the session.
Joel McFadden & William McFadden
2:15 PM - 3:15 PM
ENGRAVING: A HANDS-ON WORKSHOP
Presented by: Joel McFadden & William McFadden, Joel McFadden Design
Room 106
A client with an engraved jewelry item quickly bonds with it and the event it emotionally represents. That's very special.
In this session, you will have a hands-on opportunity to try out a laser engraver. Find out how easy it is to meet the customer's request and develop a client for life.
Tali Nay
2:15 PM - 3:15 PM
GIA KNOWLEDGE SESSION: RETAILER POLISH-UP
Presented by: Tali Nay, Gemological Institute of America
Room 102
If you’ve got spring cleaning on your brain, learn how GIA can help you polish up your store and attract even more customers. From front-of-house to back-of-house, this informative talk covers tools for your website, innovative ideas for educating in-store customers, new equipment to help you feel more confident in your analysis of diamonds and colored gems, and more!
- Got an old microscope you can no longer find parts for? Want a cool, new way to educate clients at the counter that doesn’t cost a thing? Thinking of a website rehaul and in need of ready-made 4Cs content? In this season of spring cleaning, learn how GIA can help you polish up and keep doing what you do best.
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Jennifer Shaheen
2:15 PM - 4:30 PM
MASTERCLASS: ChatGPT MASTERY FOR JEWELRY PROFESSIONALS
Presented by: Jennifer Shaheen, Technology Therapy Group
Room 104
✨A laptop or tablet is required for this hands-on experience.
What you will learn and experience:
• ChatGPT Account Configuration: Step-by-step guidance for setting up your professional ChatGPT account.
• Enhancing Product Descriptions: Utilizing writing prompts to create compelling product narratives.
• Customer Service Excellence: Strategies for incorporating ChatGPT to improve customer interactions.
• Content Analysis: Techniques for using ChatGPT to analyze and extract key information from texts.
• Social Media Strategy: Best practices for employing ChatGPT in your social media endeavors.
• Professional Guidelines: Understanding the essential do’s and don’ts of ChatGPT application in the jewelry sector.
Joel McFadden & William McFadden
3:30 - 4:30 PM
REWARD YOURSELF! PRICING CUSTOM & REPAIRS RIGHT
Presented by: Joel McFadden & William McFadden, Joel McFadden Design
Room 106
🔔 This session is a MUST for anyone taking in repairs, appraisals, and custom work.
Learn how to determine the true costs of custom jewelry design and then learn how to discuss value and price with your design client.
Join Joel McFadden in this vital conversation bolstered by real-world examples with real-world retail pricing. Joel will give you advice on how to communicate with your shop professional.