(PRESS RELEASE) “As a platform solely focused on the empowerment and growth of indie brands, we knew a virtual option had to be the next stop on our journey,” says Samantha Silverberg, senior event director for Metal + Smith.
What began in New York as an alternative to traditional jewelry shows and expos in 2016, is now headed to the world wide web. Beginning May 1st, Metal + Smith will roll out the industry’s first virtual trade show experience, connecting retailers, editors, and influencers to a global rolodex of Independent Jewelry Designers. “As a group we remain committed to maintaining a sense of togetherness which makes this pivot to an online solution the next logical step for our portfolio,” commented Olivia Lucas, senior account manager.
The inspiration behind it all: understanding that our industry will recover over time, but innovations like this will help keep the borders of our industry open. “Designers can’t press pause on their businesses and hope to remain relevant. As Retailers and Editors shift their focus online Designers will also need to find clever ways to follow suit”, says Lucas.
The virtual event will introduce a small group of global innovators with big stories to tell on a monthly basis. Similar to needing a badge for a physical show the Trade will need a login, provided via email, to access the Virtual Platform. Once a selection is made on the virtual floor plan the Guest is taken to the “Designer Residence” – the virtual counterpart to booths – where pricing and product details, brand statements, founder notes, and contact information is made available.
For more information email olivia@metalandsmith.com or visit www.metalandsmith.com
Four Decades of Excellence: How Wilkerson Transformed a Jeweler's Retirement into Celebration
After 45 years serving the Milwaukee community, Treiber & Straub Jewelers owner Michael Straub faced a significant life transition. At 75, the veteran jeweler made a personal decision many business owners understand: "I think it's time. I want to enjoy my wife with my grandchildren for the next 10, 15 years."
Wilkerson's expertise transformed this major business transition into an extraordinary success. Their comprehensive approach to managing the going-out-of-business sale created unprecedented customer response—with lines forming outside the store and limits on how many shoppers could enter at once due to fire safety regulations.
The results exceeded all expectations. "Wilkerson did a phenomenal job," Straub enthuses. "They were there for you through the whole thing, helped you with promoting it, helping you on day-to-day business. I can't speak enough for how well they did." The partnership didn't just facilitate a business closing; it created a celebratory finale to decades of service while allowing Straub to confidently step into his well-earned retirement.
