Expo NY 2012 Seminar Schedule Announced
From working with subcontractors to capitalizing on current consumer trends, the 2012 MJSA Expo New York seminars will once again offer insights into all aspects of jewelry making and design. It will also feature the finale of the first Future of Design "business incubator" competition, in which the winner will receive a prize package of business servies and promotional opportunities woth $250,000.
Developed by the Jeweler’s Resource Bureau (JRB) and StrategyWerx, the Future of Design contest will evaluate jewelry designers’ business development skills, not just design acumen. Six semi-finalists will be interviewed by designers Erica Courtney, Gurhan, Todd Reed, Lisa Jenks, Robert Lee Morris, and Penny Preville. From that round, three finalists will be chosen to give short presentations at Expo New York to five judges: Andrea Hill of StrategyWerx, Cindy Edelstein of the Jeweler’s Resource Bureau, Kate Peterson of Performance Concepts, Jim DeMattei of Viewpoint Showrooms, and manufacturer Mendel Rotenberg of Induscan.
The Expo lineup also includes:
Sunday, March 11
Selling Your Message-No Matter the Metal
Practical examples of how noted designers have raised the profiles of their brands, by delivering compelling stories and messages that turn heads and drive sales. Moderator: Andrea Hill, StrategyWerx. Panelists: Robin Haley, Robin Haley Jewelry; Gloria Maccaroni, Gurhan; Alex Woo, Alex Woo Inc.; Killian Rieder, Chamilia.
MJSA’s At the Bench Live: The Finishing Touch
How to ensure all areas of a finished piece are finished and polished to perfection. Presenter: Joel McFadden, JMB Custom Jewelry. Bench and Tool Sponsor: Stuller Inc.
Subcontracting Jewelry Work
How to subcontract effectively, from soliciting recommendations, comparing subcontractors, and agreeing on payment terms to crafting clear communications and managing expectations. Moderator: Tina Snyder, MJSA. Panelists: Kitty Hundley, Sierra Design Studio; Nancy Schuring, Devon Fine Jewelry; Rosemarie Billanti, Billanti Casting Co. Inc.; Jane Bohan, Jane Bohan Inc.
Finding Inspiration
Techniques for stoking creativity. Presenter: Alishan Halebian, Alishan.
Monday, March 12
MJSA Awards Presentation
Honoring the recipients of the eighth annual MJSA Thinking Ahead Awards and the 2012 MJSA Vision Awards.
By the Numbers: What’s Ahead for the Jewelry Industry
How to capitalize on the current trends outlined in a new report by Ken Gassman of the Jewelry Industry Research Institute. Presenter: Andrea Hill, StrategyWerx.
MJSA’s At the Bench Live: Secret Shop Weapons
The favorite tools of noted jewelers and designers, and how they effectively apply them. Based on the new MJSA Press book, Secret Shop Weapons, which will be available at a discounted price for attendees. Presenter: Ann Cahoon, Flying Marquis Studio. Bench and Tool Sponsor: Stuller Inc.
Critique My Website!
An analysis of how several well-trafficked websites create a user-friendly experience and gets noticed by search engines. Attendees will also be able to submit their own websites for possible critique. Moderator Eugene Brill, Rio Grande. Panelists: Michael Schechter, Honora Pearls; Jennifer Gandia, Greenwich Jewelers; Kathy Maurella, Greenwich Jewelers website consultant.
Green Shop Practices
How jewelry makers and designers can run more socially responsible and environmentally friendly shops. Presenter: Christine Dhein, Revere Academy of Jewelry; editor, Green Jewelry News.
For complete information on all seminars, click here.