(PRESS RELEASE) CHICAGO, IL — Get ready to combine strategy, creativity, and a dash of friendly competition in one of the most energizing sessions at The INSTORE Jewelry Show. On Saturday, Sept. 27, from 3:30–4:45 PM, two of the industry’s most respected visual merchandising experts — Lyn Falk, President and Founder of RetailWorks, and Larry Johnson, owner of Larry Johnson Consulting — will team up to lead “How to Create Purposeful Holiday Decor in Your Store and Cases”, followed immediately by a fast-paced Holiday Showcase Display Contest.
The INSTORE Jewelry Show, running September 27–29, 2025, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL, is the can’t-miss buying and educational event for fine jewelry retailers looking to get stocked—and inspired—for the holiday season. And this dynamic Saturday afternoon Pre-Show session is designed to jumpstart your holiday display strategy while connecting you with fellow creative minds.
Attendees will first learn smart, intentional techniques for creating festive displays that do more than just look good—they highlight products and enhance the overall in-store experience. Then, the real fun begins.
Participants who sign up in advance will be placed into three teams of two, and go head-to-head against other retailers in a timed, 15-minute challenge: designing a beautiful, holiday-themed jewelry showcase display using curated props and cases provided by Box Brokers, RetailWorks and The INSTORE Jewelry Show. Each team will have an opportunity to speak on the strategy behind their display. Judges will then choose the winning display—and bragging rights (plus prizes!) are on the line.
“We’re excited to offer a session that’s not just fun, but truly impactful,” said Trace Shelton, Editor-in-Chief of INSTORE Magazine. “Retailers always ask for practical holiday ideas they can bring home and implement immediately. This session delivers that—and gives them a chance to connect with peers and show off their creativity in the process.”
Matthijs Braakman, CEO and Publisher of SmartWork Media, added, “This is exactly the kind of energy and engagement we wanted when we reimagined the show format. The hands-on, collaborative spirit of this contest reflects what our community is all about—learning from each other while having a great time.”
More Reasons to Attend the 2025 INSTORE Jewelry Show
In addition to this interactive session, this year’s event includes a newly free Saturday Pre-Show Conference, giving attendees an extra day of education with a holiday twist, at no additional cost. Expect expert-led workshops, holiday marketing strategy sessions, and valuable networking opportunities.
When the exhibit hall opens on Sunday the 28th, attendees can explore a curated show floor packed with best-sellers, new launches, and seasonal collections. Get personalized advice at the Social Media Strategy station, connect with retailers and exhibitors during the new Sunday Show Floor Happy Hour, plus enjoy the city’s lively Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District after show hours to grab great food and fun.
It’s your one-stop destination for holiday prep, creative fuel, and serious inspiration.
About The INSTORE Jewelry Show 2025: The INSTORE Jewelry Show is the only trade show and buying experience for independent fine jewelry professionals in the Midwest market. Presented by INSTORE magazine, this event offers a unique platform for buying, networking, learning, and discovering the latest industry trends and product offerings. Now with a holiday twist, this year’s event will be the only show you need to attend to get your store stocked and ready ahead of the busy holiday retail season. Join us in Rosemont, IL, from September 28-29, 2025, for an unforgettable jewelry industry event.
ABOUT SMARTWORK MEDIA: SmartWork Media is dedicated to the idea that business media should strive to inform, excite and inspire business readers, and that a good business magazine can (and should) have the energy and compulsive readability of a top consumer publication. The company publishes INSTORE, INVISION, PETS+, VMSD, Signs of the Times, Big Picture and Screen Printing, as well as their respective websites and events — The INSTORE Jewelry Show, IRDC, Shop! MarketPlace and the Garden Center Show. Learn more at smartworkmedia.com.
