How to Display Jewelry at Trade Shows

Trade shows offer an opportunity to take your jewelry sales to a regional or national level. These shows are typically held at convention centers, hotels or other large venues in metropolitan areas. Wholesale buyers from around the world are in attendance and can represent the small gift shop to the large department store. If you have been selling at the retail level and are ready to make the move to wholesale, then trade shows may be for you. This type of show calls for advance planning and forethought.

Instructions

Prior to Trade Show

1

Decide what type of booth setup is most appropriate based on the size of your allotted space and your style of jewelry. Buy or rent your booth frame. Purchase any necessary display pieces.

2

Choose your color scheme, keeping in mind that only two to three colors should be used. An example would be to choose black, silver and white. All components of your display should use one of these colors. Adding texture to your overall design, such as the fabric for your table linens, is another way to create visual interest in your display.

3

Using a few props that are in keeping with your style will also help build aesthetic interest in your display. For example, if your jewelry is earthy and natural, you may choose to display pearl necklaces in large seashells and hang earrings on a display-sized, silver tree. However, don't go overboard, as keeping your display clean and simple will allow your jewelry to be the star of the show.

Day of Trade Show

4

Plan to arrive early at the show venue. Unload all equipment and begin setup. Assemble booth according to manufacturer's instructions.

5

Set up tables and cover with table linens. Arrange jewelry busts and risers at different heights and angles to create visual interest.

6

Place jewelry samples on busts and risers. Place at least one show-stopping piece at the front of your booth. This serves to further attract the attention of buyers.

7

Arrange lighting to maximize the beauty of your wares by positioning them to capture and enhance the sparkle and shine of your jewelry. Hang large photographs of your work on either side of your booth. Buyers will see your work as they walk the aisles, again capturing their attention.

8

Stand outside your booth and look from the buyer's perspective. Walk up or down the aisle and make certain that your photographs are properly placed and visible. If your display captures your attention and draws you to it, you're ready to sell.