Looking Back with Love: A Retailer and Exhibitor Share JCK 2024 Takeaways
The 2024 JCK show is in the rearview, but before we fully set our sights on the 2025 edition, we’re still reliving some of our favorite moments from this year. But for retailers, exhibitors, and attendees, it’s not just the memories that live on.
New friendships, accounts, partnerships, and ideas are born on the show floor every year (not to mention the love stories that have blossomed from the event), and those elements hold possibilities that can influence businesses for years to come.
We spoke with Valeriya Guzema of Guzema Fine Jewelry—one of this year’s new exhibitors—and Marie Benold, owner of Benold’s Jewelers, about their experiences at JCK this year.
“The atmosphere was incredibly vibrant and optimistic,” says Valeriya Guzema, founder and designer of Guzema Fine Jewelry, based in Ukraine. “Attendees and exhibitors alike seemed genuinely excited about the networking opportunities and the array of innovative Guzema designs on display. There was a strong sense of community. We loved meeting the press and buyers, all of whom were excited by our Guzema aesthetic of sculptural minimalism. We had some fantastic press coverage, too, and our transforming pieces made for great reels on Instagram. The chainfall ring from our Hidden Beauty collection was also a crowd favorite!
“We made several significant connections that promise some exciting business opportunities with both independent and chain retailers. We are optimistic about the domestic U.S. market, given several strong leads we got from the show. We could not be more grateful.
“As this was our first time participating in the show, what stood out most memorably was the opportunity to meet new industry connections who showed genuine interest in the Guzema brand and story. Engaging with attendees from various backgrounds, hearing their thoughts on our designs, and discussing potential collaborations were particularly rewarding. These interactions not only provided valuable insights but also affirmed the relevance and appeal of our brand to the U.S. market. The enthusiastic reception and the thoughtful discussions we had have inspired us and will undoubtedly influence our future initiatives.”
Retailers attending the show might have taken note of more on the show floor, given their ability to roam around and visit different booths.
“It was a mixture of excitement and nervousness this year,” says Maria Benold, owner of Benold’s Jewelers in Austin, Texas. “Some areas were unusually quiet while others were full of action with crowds. While I was tempted with great offers and extended terms to quell the nervousness, I was extra conservative in my purchases,” Maria shares. “I was able to view expanded collections from long time favorites such as Simon G. and Vahan while making sure to arrive early at certain booths to select one-of-a-kinds from Lauren K and Just Jules.
“I was able to meet a few new exhibitors and form new partnerships. I met with first time exhibitor Authentic Gem Imports and was so glad to have discovered another source for color. After hearing a glowing review from a Canadian retailer, I kept my appointment with Bassali, which proved to have an extensive collection to cover several price point categories. I also met with a packaging supplier Gunther Mele and they made the process so easy.
“I enjoyed listening to Henry Winkler and Sugar Ray Leonard. Their presentations were uplifting and motivational, which is the kind of boost you need at a trade show. I enjoy catching up with other retailers and realizing we are all facing the same highs and lows.
My favorite part of the show has to be the love and passion exhibited for different facets of the jewelry business. Perhaps because the JCK theme was love, the show felt more connected than usual.”