JCK Las Vegas is reimagining what it means to exhibit at a trade show at each stage of a designer’s career and changing the layout of its Design Center.
Visitors to the centre will now be greeted by an open concept featuring chalkboard-style booths and a non-linear floor plan meant to inspire.
The changes come in consultation with a newly created Design Advisory Board.
JCK is also introducing an ‘Exhibitor Evolution Mode’ specifically for the Design Center. Current exhibitors and new applicants will be vetted annually, vying for a spot in one of three exhibiting phases: (1) Kickstarter, (2) Rising Star, or (3) Resident Design Center.
Phase 1: Kickstarter—Students from jewellery and design colleges/schools
This area was created as a platform to launch the next generation of designers. The Design Advisory Board will choose six student designers to showcase their work and receive complimentary showcase space. Selected students from participating schools will benefit from a mentorship program focusing on the next generation.
Phase 2: Rising Star—Up-and-coming designers who have been in business five years or less
A multi-year program for up-and-coming designers, this phase is for those starting to make their mark in the jewellery business. Here, booths are smaller and cost less. Previously comprising six debuting designers annually, Rising Star now allows for 21 designers to reside in this phase for a maximum of three years (the requisite move to phase 3). This stage includes education and mentorship.
Phase 3: Resident Design Center—Established designer brands
Elite and established designers are given premier location at the front of the show and Design Center neighbourhood, bigger booths, access to the lounge access, drink tickets, and merchandise credit raffle tickets to pass along to customers.
In addition to the new layout, the show’s organizer will connect designers with elite design-focused retailers through a new hosting program and exclusive networking events.
JCK Las Vegas will be held June 3 to 6 in the newly renovated Bayside, Level 1 at Mandalay Bay. For more information or to sign up for the Design Center, visit http://lasvegas.jckonline.com/events/design-center/.
