Behind The Counter

May 31, 2009 | Link This | Email this | Comments (0)

I actually saw a lot of movement. Today, it felt like there was a jewelry convention going on. Downstairs, in the main area vendors had retailers around their entire booths; though, at the very back of the showroom—I couldn’t help to notice a ton of empty booths. I realized if there was a year to get a great spot upstairs—this was the year to do it. Many of my vendors were able to secure a spot upstairs—I hope it worked out well for them. I had the chance to speak to some of the vendors. Many felt the same as all of us—times are tough and they weren’t worried about selling but instead collecting. Then there were a few (specifically non-branded bridal retailers) who said they were doing extremely well. They told me their retailers needed an assortment of rings that filled price points because they knew even in this ec...Read More

May 30, 2009 | Link This | Email this | Comments (1)

I felt the show floor was very slow and I think I saw more exhibitors than retailers. As I walked around the aisles I noticed many of the sterling exhibitors seemed to have retailers sitting and picking out large quantity of pieces—price points of course or they’re thinking like me and wanting to bring in new people (ones whom might want to spend less now) during the grueling summer months.

As I walked down the aisles I didn’t see anything new or different—I’m sure Jennifer Heebner probably did and will post those pictures. I did, however see, pave rings, hearts, and pendants—ones like in the late 80’s but these were white gold and not yellow. Some pendants depicted interesting shapes and the pave rings were wide and concave like&mda...Read More

May 29, 2009 | Link This | Email this | Comments (3)

To be able to book a Couture appointment two weeks before the show is astonishing to me. I did not know the number of days I would be attending the shows; so of course, I waited until the last minute to make some appointments. The show was terribly slow but it was only the second day in.

My first appointment was 10am this morning with Scott Kay. Surprisingly enough he did have some new bridal pieces—because of the way things are going I figured not many vendors would be showcasing new merchandise. He also introduced a new sterling line/designed pieces called “Faith.” In addition, while pursuing the cases I saw men’s black titanium rings which looked extremely similar to the ones I have by ...Read More

May 28, 2009 | Link This | Email this | Comments (0)

I’m sitting on the plane and as I type this…I can’t help to look around at who I think is going to the show and who’s not. As I watch men and women walk down the airplane aisle I notice some very nice pieces. Expensive taste (I think to myself while in gym pants and an old t-shirt and sweatshirt) wondering if they own a store or are buyers or just haven’t seen them shop at my store and wondering if I should slip them a card.

The plane is in the air and I am free to use my much-loved laptop. In the row in front of me there happens to be a man and his wife armed with inventory (best seller sheets). I see the pictures of the jewelry, prices and so forth. He is also thumbing through some direct mail pieces. First off, I wouldn’t be caught de...Read More

May 25, 2009 | Link This | Email this | Comments (0)

This is the first time I have ever been to Vegas and my Couture, Luxury, and Premiere vendors have more than a few open slots for appointments. Are things really still not picking up? Guliani’s definitely so strong May sales—of course, I wished for more but have to thank god we moved a few larger pieces. Am I terribly worried about the summer—yes? I don’t think we’ve seen the worst of it yet and I am holding on tight and hoping we (meaning our industry) doesn’t see anymore businesses close this June, July, or August. I hope our repair business will exceed my expectations and people will want to put money into fixing their items if their not going to purchase.

So—even with what’s going on…I’m not missing Vegas. Thi...Read More