The 2018 Southeastern Jewelers Organization (SJO) Buying Group Fall Show reported record attendance at the group’s Fall Show. The event was held at The Ballantyne Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina on August 26 – 27.
The luxurious Ballantyne offers top class facilities providing SJO members, guests and vendors multiple opportunities to mix and mingle in an intimate setting. The Show featured top vendors that reported robust sales and great energy in the buying room and throughout the weekend activities. “We love the show because the jewelers are relaxed, and clearly enjoy working the buying room at their own pace, while enjoying all the in-house facilities of the hotel, including the amazing spa, swimming pool and golf course,” said Barry Hochman of Metal Marketplace International.
SJO members enjoy meeting with industry leading vendors in an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.
SJO recognizes the importance of continuing education for independent jewelers. Well attended educational seminars were held both days of the SJO Show, highlighted by a superb presentation, “Fashion Forward” by Erica Happe, Customer Experience Segment Director with Stuller. Members loved her presentation on identifying upcoming trends in the industry and how best to capitalize on them in the coming months. “Her presentation was very relevant and timely,” said Neill Hennes, Morris Jewelers, Gastonia, North Carolina. Already members have requested Erica to present again at the Spring 2019 Show in February.
Additionally, Terry Chandler, President and CEO of the Diamond Council of America presented an informative seminar on the vital subject of employee training to best reflect a store’s branding and core values. Terry’s seminar provided members and guests with specific ideas to take back to their stores.
At the Saturday evening Welcoming Party, Harold Ingram from Haywood’s Jewelers in Rocky Mount, Virginia was presented with the SJO Lifetime Achievement Award for 2018. Harold recently celebrated 50 successful years in the industry!
Members enjoyed dinner and music outside on the lawn as the Sunday evening Gala was held outside on the lawn with superb music and dinner, providing another excellent opportunity for members, guests and vendors to relax and enjoy each other’s company.
“The show was upbeat and positive with excellent deals and ideas to be had for stores heading in to the holiday season,” stated Aisling Downey, CEO of SJO.
The next SJO Show is scheduled for February 2 – 4, 2019 at the Ballantyne Hotel. This show will feature extended educational seminars on Saturday, February 2nd.
The Southeastern Jewelers Organization was founded in 1963 to allow select independent jewelers the opportunity to build great relationships and receive special terms and discounts with the nation’s finest vendors. Members enjoy two shows each year at the luxurious Ballantyne Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina along with relevant and meaningful educational seminars. The purpose of the organization is to provide members with enhanced margins, great vendor choices and the knowledge needed to be better jewelers every day.
For membership details or more information please call Aisling Downey at 877-996-9850 or visit www.sjorg.com.
