(PRESS RELEASE) NEW YORK — With just a few weeks until the launch of PREMIER at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), May 30th to June 3rd, show organizers introduce the launch of several key initiatives intended to add value to both the exhibitor and attendee experience. Throughout the show, three casual discussions, called “Idea Labs,” will take place in the lounge of the PREMIER X Designer area of the show. Led by passionate experts in their fields, these discussions will focus on a number of topics relevant to both exhibitors and attendees. On Saturday morning, an hour prior to show open, “Speed Mentoring” is being introduced. Several industry insiders, including retailers, press and brand strategists, are being paired with PREMIER X Designer brands that have opted to participate in the program. In brief, 15-minute sessions, the experts will meet with the designers in their respective booths to provide feedback on their collections, and answer any questions the designers may have.
“Our job as show organizers does not stop when we sell an exhibitor their booth space,” explains Drew Lawsky, PREMIER’s show director and group show director for JA New York Shows. “In addition to working diligently to generate attendee registration, we have developed programs that will add value to the overall show experience. These Idea Labs, along with our Speed Mentoring program, serve to create a sense of community inside of these shared experiences, and that will continue beyond the five days we spend together in Las Vegas.”
The first Idea Lab is being led by Monica Stephenson of ANZA and will be centered on the power of collaboration. PREMIER designer, Jennifer Maxwell of Leigh Maxwell, as well as gem cutter Beth Stier will join Monica to discuss elevating and supporting artisans. On Saturday, brand advocate, influencer and consultant to fine jewelry designers, Ben Guttery of @ThirdCoastGems will lead a discussion on building community through social media. On Sunday, Grace Lavarro, owner of Jewels by Grace, will share her foundation of knowledge of estate jewelry, as well as offer insight into how she incorporates beloved estate pieces into her contemporary designs. All Design Lab discussions will take place from 11:30am to 12:30pm and will include a prosecco toast.
The Speed Mentoring program was just announced to brands last week, and has already been enthusiastically received by the majority of brands exhibiting in the PREMIER X Designer section of the show. Twenty experts in their field have already volunteered to participate as mentors, including Paul Schneider from Twist, Paula Lee from O Magazine and Sara Yood with Jewelers Vigilance Committee. More mentors are signing on each week.
To be considered as a volunteer mentor, or for more information about PREMIER, which is taking place alongside AGTA GemFair Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Antique Jewelry and Watch Show, May 30th to June 3rd, please contact Michelle Orman at Michelle@LastWordComm.com.