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Blog, Industry, News, Products, Trends

The 5 Biggest Watch Trends to Shape Your 2018/19 Buying Decisions

by IJL • • 5 Comments

Following a flurry of new watch launches in the luxury and fashion categories, we have singled out the five biggest watch trends that have creative teams hooked in 2018. 

If you are a retailer looking to update your offer with some seasonal new additions, take a look at our round-up below. Whether it’s carefully chosen dial colours, visible movements or statement sizes, these tips could aid your buying decisions and keep your customers on their toes.

The 5 Biggest Watch Trends of 2018

Earth Tones

Whereas the last two years have been dominated by blue, the latest buzz is around earthy colours, especially green, shades of rust, brown, orange and sandy grey. In the running for ‘most photographed’ in recent months is the Rado True Thinline in a unisex shade of forest green.

This love of green is also captured by Panerai in its Luminor Due and Cartier’s Révélation d’une Panthére.

A post shared by Rado (@rado) on

The trend for natural shades has also crept into fashion watch categories, with rich shades of walnut seen at IJL 2018 exhibitor, Obaku, and stony hues seen at IJL 2018 exhibitor, Calvin Klein.

Related Blogs: Stunning Jewellery & Eye-Catching Watches at the Oscars 2018

Lots of Layering

Chanel, Bulgari, Hermes and Harry Winston have all been leading the charge when it comes to multi-wrap watch straps. The look is decidedly more evening-appropriate than in previous iterations, so expect to see exotic leather multi-wrap straps with delicate diamond-set dials.

To capture the high jewellery style, turn to visual merchandising to show watches stacked and layered with complimentary bracelets and charms – just be sure to strip away the boho, festival aesthetic to echo a champagne soiree.

Related Blogs: How Will the Pantone Colour of the Year 2018 Impact Jewellery?

Bold in Gold

The huge 1980s resurgence in fashion has pushed the bling of yellow gold to the forefront, so expect big, bold and glitzy timepieces across both luxury and fashion brands. Gucci and Chopard presented some of the most striking examples of yellow gold timepieces earlier this year, but don’t miss some great gold-tone options from the likes of Obaku, Skagen, Armani Exchange, Seiko, Guess and Henry London.

Obaku yellow gold-tone watches
Yellow-gold tone watches by IJL 2018 exhibitor, Obaku.

For those visiting IJL 2018, don’t miss MANFRED+CRACCO and EverSwiss – two great watch brands distributed by IJL exhibitor, Mode9. Both have striking yellow gold-tone options that will add a touch of glam to your festive season!

Related Blogs: 5 Jewellery Industry Trends to Look out for in 2018

Rainbow Waves

From sunshine yellow to bright ‘Millennial pink’, there has been no shortage of colour in 2018. Look to the Hermes Arceau Casaque for a lesson in block coloured brights, or turn to Rolex for an example of rainbow gem-setting on its new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona.

For further inspiration, we recommend searching for the latest additions to Chopard’s Happy Sport collection, the Harry Winston Premiere Candy Automatic, and new designs from Storm, Swatch, Nixon, Ted Baker, Festina, Marc Jacobs and Briston.

Related Blogs: 5 Top Tips to Create a Stronger Jewellery Brand

Androgyny

The ‘Boyfriend’ watch has been big news in recent months, with brands pushing sizes up to the 40mm mark for women. The Swarovski Octea Luxe has captured the conversation, with new additions from Calvin Klein, Omega, TAG Heuer and Mode9 brand, Oxygen, also highlighting the trend well.

Instead of a ‘His and Hers’ approach, consider how to promote your most androgynous pieces based on colour, style and case shape, no matter which gender collection they fall into.

For a final flourish… Skeletonised watches have proven to be a popular trend this year, with a new version of the Chanel Boyfriend proving particularly popular among journalists (see above).

For inspiration from the luxury end of the market, look to the Bulgari Lucea Skeleton and De Grisogono’s New Retro Double Power Reserve.

At the more accessible end of the market, we are impressed with the classic skeleton timepieces offered by Rotary, Fossil, Kenneth Cole, Sekonda, Ingersoll, Tissot and Gucci.

Explore the watch brands and businesses exhibiting at IJL 2018.

IJL is #withyou offering concise round-ups of the biggest industry trends, Fashion Week insights and practical advice to support your buying decisions. Join us from September 2-4 2018 for three-days of buying, networking and inspiration. Contact us today. 

Blog, Industry, Interviews, People

Where Are They Now? Amy Stringer on Her Career since Bright Young Gems

by IJL • • 1 Comment

In 2015, Sheffield Hallam University graduate, Amy Stringer, was given a Highly Commended accolade in International Jewellery London’s Bright Young Gems competition. 

Today, this talented jewellery designer, curator and tutor continues to follow her creative passions and produce collections by hand from her studio.

To explore exactly how influential Bright Young Gems was on her early career, we caught up with Amy to discover what the competition meant to her and what her advice would be to those thinking of entering.

Q. How did you find out about Bright Young Gems and what made you want to apply?

My university introduced me to Bright Young Gem’s and encouraged me to apply, I thought it would be a good opportunity to apply for my first competition and had no idea I would actually end up winning an award, it really gave me the confidence to push forward in my first year of independent making.

Q. Why was entering important to you?

If you are serious about turning your work into a career, it’s a must. It gives you a springboard, a sense of credibility and a confidence boost to get you going in that important first year.

READ MORE: IJL Reveal New VIP Judging Line-Up for BRIGHT YOUNG GEMS 2018

Q. What would be your advice to other recent graduates or final year students who are thinking of entering Bright Young Gems?

Talk to everyone! It is so important when you get these opportunities to talk to everyone and anyone who approaches you. Don’t favour people who you recognise from the industry, because you never know who everyone else is.

I currently work for a wonderful contemporary gallery in Leeds and am often mistaken for ‘just another student’ when attending shows to find new makers… you never know who could be approaching you.

Amy Stringer Pendant Bright Young Gems
A pendant design with concrete by Amy Stringer.

Q. What have you been doing since securing the Highly Commended at Bright Young Gems 2015?

As well as continuing to make and pursue my jewellery career, I have also gone into curation. Having the Highly Commended Award from IJL definitely gave my brand a sense of credibility.

To be recognised by such a major jewellery organisation was a dream, and I was able to advertise and use this to show that although I was a new graduate, I was a serious maker wanting to become part of the industry.

Amy Stringer Geometric Necklace Bright Young Gems
A necklace from Amy Stringer’s Brutalist collection.

I am now a self employed contemporary jeweller, continuing to create new collections and explore cement as a unique jewellery material. I also work as the Jewellery Coordinator for the Craft Centre and Design Gallery Leeds.

I have collections available through contemporary galleries across the country, I have exhibited at shows in the UK and Holland and have no intention of slowing down any time soon! I am hoping to begin teaching jewellery classes from my studio this year, as well as launch a new collection and take part in several UK shows.

To read more terms and conditions about Bright Young Gems, please click here. 

To apply for Bright Young Gems, please click here. 

Meet the Bright Young Gems judges!

What is the IJL Journey?

As part of our IJL 365 approach, the IJL Journey extends far beyond our three-day trade event. It offers myriad career-boosting benefits, including a mentoring package, workshop days, ongoing pricing, branding and marketing support, and introductions to key industry figures.

This invaluable advice prepares each Bright Young Gem, KickStarter and Design Gallery Exhibitor to meet the 9,000 strong jewellery audience at IJL 2018, from September 2-4.

Discover more about the IJL Journey, here. 

IJL is #withyou offering career opportunities and the chance to grow your jewellery business, whether you are a student, recent graduate, emerging brand or established player. Speak to our team to find out more. 

Quick Links: Listen to our IJL Talks podcast series

Quick Links: Discover how to create a press pack

Blog, Exhibiting, Industry, News, People

Kickstart Alumni: Phoebe Jewellery Owner on Industry Recognition at IJL

by IJL •

Phoebe Sherwood Moore, owner of Phoebe Jewellery, took part in IJL’s KickStart initiative in 2013 and has since exhibited at IJL as a growing designer brand.

Here, Sherwood Moore offers her insights on KickStart and explains why the event helped her brand secure industry recognition and crucial press coverage.

Q. What was your overall impression of KickStart and how did it help your business in its early stages?

It was hugely encouraging to receive recognition through KickStart so early on in my business and to be endorsed by the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) and IJL. Some of the advice and mentoring I received at the time was invaluable and it was great to feel part of a community of jewellery designers at similar stages in their careers.

Phoebe Sherwood Moore at the Bench
Phoebe Sherwood Moore creating jewellery at the bench.

Q. Being a KickStarter does involve investing in the cost of a shared stand at IJL 2018 – what would you say to people who are worried about taking the leap?

However much or little, you will always have to invest something to start a business. For me personally, I found the exposure that I gained through KickStart was a fast way to gain recognition within the trade.

If nothing else had come from it, it would have been cheaper than the same amount of exposure through advertising. Plus, the reduced price stand at IJL allowed me see a return on my investment.

Gold Plated Big Antler Hoop Earrings Phoebe Jewellery
Big Antler hoop earrings in gold-plated silver by Phoebe Jewellery.

I met some of the people who have become regular stockists of mine, although some of them waited until I returned to IJL the following year to invest in my business.

Q. How did KickStart help you on your journey to success?

Being part of Kickstart is a boost to your business and an opportunity to turn it into something bigger. However, you can’t expect success overnight just from taking part in KickStart; it is more like being given the tools to make that transformation and it’s up to you how much you use them.

Silver and Wood Antler Necklace and Cactus Pendatn Phoebe Jewellery IJL KickStart
Potted Cactus necklace and Silver and Wood Antler necklace by Phoebe Jewellery.

The sales and business advice we were given during the lead-up to IJL was invaluable and helped me with the business model I am still using today.

I’ve now started wholesaling in the US through the NY Now show, which I was given the contacts to via the NAJ when it recognised my interest in expanding the wholesale side of my business overseas.

Q. Finally, how is your jewellery industry career or brand progressing and what are you hoping to achieve in the future?

Both the wholesale and retail sides of my business are going really well and I am focused on maintaining the quality of tmy work and producing new collections while the business is naturally expanding and bringing in a higher turnover each year.

Last year was my busiest year by far and, with some exciting developments planned including a new website and marketing strategy, I’ am hoping the trend will continue throughout 2018.

To read more terms and conditions about KickStart, please click here. 

To apply for KickStart, please click here. 

The 2017 KickStarters at their shared stand at Olympia.

What is the IJL Journey?

As part of our IJL 365 approach, the IJL Journey extends far beyond our three-day trade event. It offers myriad career-boosting benefits, including a mentoring package, workshop days, ongoing pricing, branding and marketing support, and introductions to key industry figures.

This invaluable advice prepares each Bright Young Gem, KickStarter and Design Gallery Exhibitor to meet the 9,000 strong jewellery audience at IJL 2018, from September 2-4.

Discover more about the IJL Journey, here. 

IJL is #withyou offering career opportunities and the chance to grow your jewellery business, whether you are a student, recent graduate, emerging brand or established player. Speak to our team to find out more. 

Quick Links: Listen to our IJL Talks podcast series

Quick Links: Discover how to create a press pack 

Blog, Education, Exhibiting, Industry, News, People

Kickstart Alumni: Alice Barnes on Taking Her Business to the Next Level at IJL 2017

by IJL •

In September 2017, jewellery designer Alice Barnes opted to invest in KickStart – our unique initiative that puts emerging designer jewellery brands in front of IJL’s audience of buyers, retailers and press. 

Here, Barnes explains what made the process so valuable for her business and shares her excitement for IJL 2018 in September.

Q: What was your overall impression of KickStart and how did it help your business in its early stages?

I’d only been in business for three-and-a-half-years when I took part and although I already had several stockists, KickStart was the perfect platform to help me take it up another notch. The advice and guidance given by the organisers was invaluable, and exhibiting with other designers definitely took some of the fear out of being at such a big show.

Q. Being a KickStarter does involve investing in the cost of a shared stand at IJL 2018 – what would you say to people who are worried about taking the leap?

I see trade and retail shows as an advertising opportunity first and foremost. At IJL you have the chance to get your work seen by hundreds of potential stockists and journalists, so if someone seems interested then get their details and keep them up-to-date with your progress and build relationships.

Pleated Necklace by Alice Barnes KicKStart 2017
Pleated Black Fan necklace in oxidised silver by Alice Barnes.

It was great meeting so many people who were genuinely interested in seeing new work by emerging designers, and nice to meet so many fellow designers and make new friends. I’m not going to lie it was hard work and a real whirlwind, but totally worth it, especially as I came away with the KickStarter Industry’s Choice Award. I won a free stand at IJL 2018 and started planning for it as soon as I got home!

Q. How can future KickStarters capitalise on their IJL Journey and the IJL experience? What would be your advice?

Be as prepared as you possibly can and take on board the advice available to you. Your fellow KickStarters will all be in the same boat as you and just as nervous, so stay in touch and gain strength from each other.

Q. How did KickStart help you on your journey to success?

I gained several new stockists and had my best (and busiest!) Christmas yet. It also really boosted my confidence and I feel much more self assured when it comes to approaching stockists and doing future trade show. Having said that, it will be weird going it alone at IJL 2018 without my fellow KickStarters beside me!

Alice Barnes Pleated Collection Necklace
Pleated Silver Star necklace by Alice Barnes.

Q. Finally, how is your jewellery industry career or brand progressing and what are you hoping to achieve in the future?

I’ve just got my first stockist in the USA and I’d love to expand overseas more, but I’m aware that there are still lots of potential stockist in the UK.

Right now I’m in the throes of designing a new paper inspired range which will launch at IJL in September and I can’t wait to show it to my current stockists, as well as those I’ve yet to meet.

To read more terms and conditions about KickStart, please click here. 

To apply for KickStart, please click here. 

The 2017 KickStarters at their shared stand at Olympia.

What is the IJL Journey?

As part of our IJL 365 approach, the IJL Journey extends far beyond our three-day trade event. It offers myriad career-boosting benefits, including a mentoring package, workshop days, ongoing pricing, branding and marketing support, and introductions to key industry figures.

This invaluable advice prepares each Bright Young Gem, KickStarter and Design Gallery Exhibitor to meet the 9,000 strong jewellery audience at IJL 2018, from September 2-4.

Discover more about the IJL Journey, here. 

IJL is #withyou offering career opportunities and the chance to grow your jewellery business, whether you are a student, recent graduate, emerging brand or established player. Speak to our team to find out more. 

Quick Links:Listen to our IJL Talks podcast series

Quick Links: Discover how to create a press pack 

Blog, Industry, News, Products, Trends

The 5 Biggest Watch Trends to Shape Your 2018/19 Buying Decisions

by IJL • • 5 Comments

Following a flurry of new watch launches in the luxury and fashion categories, we have singled out the five biggest watch trends that have creative teams hooked in 2018. 

If you are a retailer looking to update your offer with some seasonal new additions, take a look at our round-up below. Whether it’s carefully chosen dial colours, visible movements or statement sizes, these tips could aid your buying decisions and keep your customers on their toes.

The 5 Biggest Watch Trends of 2018

Earth Tones

Whereas the last two years have been dominated by blue, the latest buzz is around earthy colours, especially green, shades of rust, brown, orange and sandy grey. In the running for ‘most photographed’ in recent months is the Rado True Thinline in a unisex shade of forest green.

This love of green is also captured by Panerai in its Luminor Due and Cartier’s Révélation d’une Panthére.

A post shared by Rado (@rado) on

The trend for natural shades has also crept into fashion watch categories, with rich shades of walnut seen at IJL 2018 exhibitor, Obaku, and stony hues seen at IJL 2018 exhibitor, Calvin Klein.

Related Blogs: Stunning Jewellery & Eye-Catching Watches at the Oscars 2018

Lots of Layering

Chanel, Bulgari, Hermes and Harry Winston have all been leading the charge when it comes to multi-wrap watch straps. The look is decidedly more evening-appropriate than in previous iterations, so expect to see exotic leather multi-wrap straps with delicate diamond-set dials.

To capture the high jewellery style, turn to visual merchandising to show watches stacked and layered with complimentary bracelets and charms – just be sure to strip away the boho, festival aesthetic to echo a champagne soiree.

Related Blogs: How Will the Pantone Colour of the Year 2018 Impact Jewellery?

Bold in Gold

The huge 1980s resurgence in fashion has pushed the bling of yellow gold to the forefront, so expect big, bold and glitzy timepieces across both luxury and fashion brands. Gucci and Chopard presented some of the most striking examples of yellow gold timepieces earlier this year, but don’t miss some great gold-tone options from the likes of Obaku, Skagen, Armani Exchange, Seiko, Guess and Henry London.

Obaku yellow gold-tone watches
Yellow-gold tone watches by IJL 2018 exhibitor, Obaku.

For those visiting IJL 2018, don’t miss MANFRED+CRACCO and EverSwiss – two great watch brands distributed by IJL exhibitor, Mode9. Both have striking yellow gold-tone options that will add a touch of glam to your festive season!

Related Blogs: 5 Jewellery Industry Trends to Look out for in 2018

Rainbow Waves

From sunshine yellow to bright ‘Millennial pink’, there has been no shortage of colour in 2018. Look to the Hermes Arceau Casaque for a lesson in block coloured brights, or turn to Rolex for an example of rainbow gem-setting on its new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona.

For further inspiration, we recommend searching for the latest additions to Chopard’s Happy Sport collection, the Harry Winston Premiere Candy Automatic, and new designs from Storm, Swatch, Nixon, Ted Baker, Festina, Marc Jacobs and Briston.

Related Blogs: 5 Top Tips to Create a Stronger Jewellery Brand

Androgyny

The ‘Boyfriend’ watch has been big news in recent months, with brands pushing sizes up to the 40mm mark for women. The Swarovski Octea Luxe has captured the conversation, with new additions from Calvin Klein, Omega, TAG Heuer and Mode9 brand, Oxygen, also highlighting the trend well.

Instead of a ‘His and Hers’ approach, consider how to promote your most androgynous pieces based on colour, style and case shape, no matter which gender collection they fall into.

For a final flourish… Skeletonised watches have proven to be a popular trend this year, with a new version of the Chanel Boyfriend proving particularly popular among journalists (see above).

For inspiration from the luxury end of the market, look to the Bulgari Lucea Skeleton and De Grisogono’s New Retro Double Power Reserve.

At the more accessible end of the market, we are impressed with the classic skeleton timepieces offered by Rotary, Fossil, Kenneth Cole, Sekonda, Ingersoll, Tissot and Gucci.

Explore the watch brands and businesses exhibiting at IJL 2018.

IJL is #withyou offering concise round-ups of the biggest industry trends, Fashion Week insights and practical advice to support your buying decisions. Join us from September 2-4 2018 for three-days of buying, networking and inspiration. Contact us today. 

Blog, Industry, Interviews, People

Where Are They Now? Amy Stringer on Her Career since Bright Young Gems

by IJL • • 1 Comment

In 2015, Sheffield Hallam University graduate, Amy Stringer, was given a Highly Commended accolade in International Jewellery London’s Bright Young Gems competition. 

Today, this talented jewellery designer, curator and tutor continues to follow her creative passions and produce collections by hand from her studio.

To explore exactly how influential Bright Young Gems was on her early career, we caught up with Amy to discover what the competition meant to her and what her advice would be to those thinking of entering.

Q. How did you find out about Bright Young Gems and what made you want to apply?

My university introduced me to Bright Young Gem’s and encouraged me to apply, I thought it would be a good opportunity to apply for my first competition and had no idea I would actually end up winning an award, it really gave me the confidence to push forward in my first year of independent making.

Q. Why was entering important to you?

If you are serious about turning your work into a career, it’s a must. It gives you a springboard, a sense of credibility and a confidence boost to get you going in that important first year.

READ MORE: IJL Reveal New VIP Judging Line-Up for BRIGHT YOUNG GEMS 2018

Q. What would be your advice to other recent graduates or final year students who are thinking of entering Bright Young Gems?

Talk to everyone! It is so important when you get these opportunities to talk to everyone and anyone who approaches you. Don’t favour people who you recognise from the industry, because you never know who everyone else is.

I currently work for a wonderful contemporary gallery in Leeds and am often mistaken for ‘just another student’ when attending shows to find new makers… you never know who could be approaching you.

Amy Stringer Pendant Bright Young Gems
A pendant design with concrete by Amy Stringer.

Q. What have you been doing since securing the Highly Commended at Bright Young Gems 2015?

As well as continuing to make and pursue my jewellery career, I have also gone into curation. Having the Highly Commended Award from IJL definitely gave my brand a sense of credibility.

To be recognised by such a major jewellery organisation was a dream, and I was able to advertise and use this to show that although I was a new graduate, I was a serious maker wanting to become part of the industry.

Amy Stringer Geometric Necklace Bright Young Gems
A necklace from Amy Stringer’s Brutalist collection.

I am now a self employed contemporary jeweller, continuing to create new collections and explore cement as a unique jewellery material. I also work as the Jewellery Coordinator for the Craft Centre and Design Gallery Leeds.

I have collections available through contemporary galleries across the country, I have exhibited at shows in the UK and Holland and have no intention of slowing down any time soon! I am hoping to begin teaching jewellery classes from my studio this year, as well as launch a new collection and take part in several UK shows.

To read more terms and conditions about Bright Young Gems, please click here. 

To apply for Bright Young Gems, please click here. 

Meet the Bright Young Gems judges!

What is the IJL Journey?

As part of our IJL 365 approach, the IJL Journey extends far beyond our three-day trade event. It offers myriad career-boosting benefits, including a mentoring package, workshop days, ongoing pricing, branding and marketing support, and introductions to key industry figures.

This invaluable advice prepares each Bright Young Gem, KickStarter and Design Gallery Exhibitor to meet the 9,000 strong jewellery audience at IJL 2018, from September 2-4.

Discover more about the IJL Journey, here. 

IJL is #withyou offering career opportunities and the chance to grow your jewellery business, whether you are a student, recent graduate, emerging brand or established player. Speak to our team to find out more. 

Quick Links: Listen to our IJL Talks podcast series

Quick Links: Discover how to create a press pack

Blog, Exhibiting, Industry, News, People

Kickstart Alumni: Phoebe Jewellery Owner on Industry Recognition at IJL

by IJL •

Phoebe Sherwood Moore, owner of Phoebe Jewellery, took part in IJL’s KickStart initiative in 2013 and has since exhibited at IJL as a growing designer brand.

Here, Sherwood Moore offers her insights on KickStart and explains why the event helped her brand secure industry recognition and crucial press coverage.

Q. What was your overall impression of KickStart and how did it help your business in its early stages?

It was hugely encouraging to receive recognition through KickStart so early on in my business and to be endorsed by the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) and IJL. Some of the advice and mentoring I received at the time was invaluable and it was great to feel part of a community of jewellery designers at similar stages in their careers.

Phoebe Sherwood Moore at the Bench
Phoebe Sherwood Moore creating jewellery at the bench.

Q. Being a KickStarter does involve investing in the cost of a shared stand at IJL 2018 – what would you say to people who are worried about taking the leap?

However much or little, you will always have to invest something to start a business. For me personally, I found the exposure that I gained through KickStart was a fast way to gain recognition within the trade.

If nothing else had come from it, it would have been cheaper than the same amount of exposure through advertising. Plus, the reduced price stand at IJL allowed me see a return on my investment.

Gold Plated Big Antler Hoop Earrings Phoebe Jewellery
Big Antler hoop earrings in gold-plated silver by Phoebe Jewellery.

I met some of the people who have become regular stockists of mine, although some of them waited until I returned to IJL the following year to invest in my business.

Q. How did KickStart help you on your journey to success?

Being part of Kickstart is a boost to your business and an opportunity to turn it into something bigger. However, you can’t expect success overnight just from taking part in KickStart; it is more like being given the tools to make that transformation and it’s up to you how much you use them.

Silver and Wood Antler Necklace and Cactus Pendatn Phoebe Jewellery IJL KickStart
Potted Cactus necklace and Silver and Wood Antler necklace by Phoebe Jewellery.

The sales and business advice we were given during the lead-up to IJL was invaluable and helped me with the business model I am still using today.

I’ve now started wholesaling in the US through the NY Now show, which I was given the contacts to via the NAJ when it recognised my interest in expanding the wholesale side of my business overseas.

Q. Finally, how is your jewellery industry career or brand progressing and what are you hoping to achieve in the future?

Both the wholesale and retail sides of my business are going really well and I am focused on maintaining the quality of tmy work and producing new collections while the business is naturally expanding and bringing in a higher turnover each year.

Last year was my busiest year by far and, with some exciting developments planned including a new website and marketing strategy, I’ am hoping the trend will continue throughout 2018.

To read more terms and conditions about KickStart, please click here. 

To apply for KickStart, please click here. 

The 2017 KickStarters at their shared stand at Olympia.

What is the IJL Journey?

As part of our IJL 365 approach, the IJL Journey extends far beyond our three-day trade event. It offers myriad career-boosting benefits, including a mentoring package, workshop days, ongoing pricing, branding and marketing support, and introductions to key industry figures.

This invaluable advice prepares each Bright Young Gem, KickStarter and Design Gallery Exhibitor to meet the 9,000 strong jewellery audience at IJL 2018, from September 2-4.

Discover more about the IJL Journey, here. 

IJL is #withyou offering career opportunities and the chance to grow your jewellery business, whether you are a student, recent graduate, emerging brand or established player. Speak to our team to find out more. 

Quick Links: Listen to our IJL Talks podcast series

Quick Links: Discover how to create a press pack 

Blog, Education, Exhibiting, Industry, News, People

Kickstart Alumni: Alice Barnes on Taking Her Business to the Next Level at IJL 2017

by IJL •

In September 2017, jewellery designer Alice Barnes opted to invest in KickStart – our unique initiative that puts emerging designer jewellery brands in front of IJL’s audience of buyers, retailers and press. 

Here, Barnes explains what made the process so valuable for her business and shares her excitement for IJL 2018 in September.

Q: What was your overall impression of KickStart and how did it help your business in its early stages?

I’d only been in business for three-and-a-half-years when I took part and although I already had several stockists, KickStart was the perfect platform to help me take it up another notch. The advice and guidance given by the organisers was invaluable, and exhibiting with other designers definitely took some of the fear out of being at such a big show.

Q. Being a KickStarter does involve investing in the cost of a shared stand at IJL 2018 – what would you say to people who are worried about taking the leap?

I see trade and retail shows as an advertising opportunity first and foremost. At IJL you have the chance to get your work seen by hundreds of potential stockists and journalists, so if someone seems interested then get their details and keep them up-to-date with your progress and build relationships.

Pleated Necklace by Alice Barnes KicKStart 2017
Pleated Black Fan necklace in oxidised silver by Alice Barnes.

It was great meeting so many people who were genuinely interested in seeing new work by emerging designers, and nice to meet so many fellow designers and make new friends. I’m not going to lie it was hard work and a real whirlwind, but totally worth it, especially as I came away with the KickStarter Industry’s Choice Award. I won a free stand at IJL 2018 and started planning for it as soon as I got home!

Q. How can future KickStarters capitalise on their IJL Journey and the IJL experience? What would be your advice?

Be as prepared as you possibly can and take on board the advice available to you. Your fellow KickStarters will all be in the same boat as you and just as nervous, so stay in touch and gain strength from each other.

Q. How did KickStart help you on your journey to success?

I gained several new stockists and had my best (and busiest!) Christmas yet. It also really boosted my confidence and I feel much more self assured when it comes to approaching stockists and doing future trade show. Having said that, it will be weird going it alone at IJL 2018 without my fellow KickStarters beside me!

Alice Barnes Pleated Collection Necklace
Pleated Silver Star necklace by Alice Barnes.

Q. Finally, how is your jewellery industry career or brand progressing and what are you hoping to achieve in the future?

I’ve just got my first stockist in the USA and I’d love to expand overseas more, but I’m aware that there are still lots of potential stockist in the UK.

Right now I’m in the throes of designing a new paper inspired range which will launch at IJL in September and I can’t wait to show it to my current stockists, as well as those I’ve yet to meet.

To read more terms and conditions about KickStart, please click here. 

To apply for KickStart, please click here. 

The 2017 KickStarters at their shared stand at Olympia.

What is the IJL Journey?

As part of our IJL 365 approach, the IJL Journey extends far beyond our three-day trade event. It offers myriad career-boosting benefits, including a mentoring package, workshop days, ongoing pricing, branding and marketing support, and introductions to key industry figures.

This invaluable advice prepares each Bright Young Gem, KickStarter and Design Gallery Exhibitor to meet the 9,000 strong jewellery audience at IJL 2018, from September 2-4.

Discover more about the IJL Journey, here. 

IJL is #withyou offering career opportunities and the chance to grow your jewellery business, whether you are a student, recent graduate, emerging brand or established player. Speak to our team to find out more. 

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