2016 is stretching before us like a blank canvas, and if you are like me, this time of year can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. We can’t predict or control what the year will bring, what the economy will do, or how customers will react to global events. Therefore, the best thing we can do for ourselves and for our businesses is to move forward and anticipate the best outcome for everything, while staying flexible enough to adapt to any social or economic pressures that might arise.
Starting today, give yourself permission to break out of the mold and revitalize your business into a stronger, healthier and more profitable version of itself. Begin creating new opportunities, connecting with customers old and new, and captivating your market with products, ideas and events you haven’t had the chance to explore yet.
And if you aren’t sure where to start, I have the perfect recommendation for you! The Southern Jewelers Guild has partnered with the Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair and has a special offer for first time visitors to Antwerp.
If you ever thought about visiting Antwerp, consider this your personal invitation to participate in this 3-day event, complete with a free hotel room stay! The Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair is dedicated solely to loose diamond goods, and will take place from January 31 – February 2, 2016 within the prestigious halls of the Diamond Bourses of Antwerp. There you’ll find a vast selection of diamonds, including fancy colors, as well as many exceptional, one of a kind pieces that are perfect for jewelers who specialize in the creation of one-of-a-kind jewelry.
First time visitors, both retailers and manufacturers, are eligible for a complimentary 3 night hotel stay, with transportation to and from Brussels International Airport to the hotel of the Fair, located in the heart of Antwerp. Please note, there is no taxi transportation available between the hotel and the diamond bourses. The street to the bourses is closed to regular traffic at all times due to security purposes.
Sophia Silvert, Business Development Director of the Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair stated: “We are delighted to work with the Southern Jewelers Guild and look forward to welcoming some of its members to the Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair later this month. Attendees are also welcome to attend ‘The Antwerp Diamond Night’ grand evening on Sunday, January 31, 2016, sponsored by the Antwerp World Diamond Centre, as well as continue their networking at the Antwerp Diamond Networking Cocktail Party on Monday, February 2nd. In addition, the Trade Fair also has hostesses available to help with registration for those interested in visiting the HRD Antwerp and IGI Gemological laboratories, as well as to provide information on touring the diamond manufacturing firm located in the heart of the Antwerp Diamond District.”
Attendees interested in the educational side of the Trade Fair are welcome to attend breakfast seminars on Monday, February 2nd and Tuesday, February 3rd, which will take place at the Radisson Blu, the official hotel of the Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair. Topics for the seminars include “Identifying Synthetic Diamonds and New Technologies,” and “The World of Luxury.”
Starting 2016 off with a trip to Antwerp is more than a great way to make new connections with vendors who represent some of the finest diamond goods in the world. It’s an excellent opportunity for you to reshape the narrative of your business for the new year. What better way to remind your customers of your expertise than by allowing them to take a virtual trip to Antwerp with you through your social media? Put together a press release and distribute it to your local media outlets upon your return (just in time for Valentine’s Day!) and share photo’s and tips on the latest trends in diamonds and diamond fashions. Appeal to consumers looking for artisanal goods with a message and a story that emphasizes your unique services, coupled with hand-picked diamonds set in unique or custom designs meant to be passed down through generations.
Yes, our industry is changing. What industry isn’t? Uber is turning the traditional taxi business on its head, and companies like Amazon Prime Video and Net-flix are giving traditional network television executives a heart attack as consumers continue to “cut the cord” and choose alternative programming and delivery.
But the jewelry industry isn’t dead, not by a long shot. Don’t give up, and don’t give in to the false narratives that might be playing in your head. Take advantage of new and unusual opportunities such as the Antwerp Diamond Trade Fair to step outside the box, bring attention and excitement back to your business, and give your customers ideas and options they will never find anywhere else but with you.
And if you need some help making it all work, remember, I am only a phone call or e-mail away!
Wishing you all a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!
Have questions about the Southern Jewelers Guild or want more information about membership? E-mail me at Ann@SouthernJewelersGuild.com or call 504-615-1191 today.
