For many exhibitors and attendees, the show was the first in-person event in which they participated since 2019, and the urgency to connect and conduct business was evident in the crowds gathering at registration prior to the show’s official opening.

“It’s obvious how thrilled everyone is to be back together again in person,” noted Gannon Brousseau, EVP of Emerald and Director of COUTURE. “This industry has truly felt the sting of being apart for far too long, and we’re all breathing a collective sigh of relief that we’re back together and doing business.”

“It feels great to be back at a trade show again,” enthused Lori Gadola of Kelim Jewelry. “It’s amazing to see all of the jewelry, of course, but it’s also so rewarding to have the opportunity to socialize again. We are all social people, especially our retail partners, otherwise we wouldn’t be in this business; we’re people people!”

“I’m so happy to see people in person again,” reiterated Krista Collins of INSTORE Magazine. “Before getting here, I wasn’t sure how I would feel but it feels incredible. I have missed all of my industry friends and colleagues and being back together again reminds me of how much I appreciate the people I get to work with in this industry.”

In addition to the joy people felt reuniting in person, exhibitors were busy throughout the day with orders being written. “It’s a good start to a new show season, which has been absent for far too long,” said Steve Burkowitz of Sterling Reputation. “The real buyers absolutely showed up because they need to buy; a lot of retailers are still doing great and they need stock up.”

“People are back and they are buying, it’s been a great first day,” noted Anand Jain of Hari Jewels.