Here is JA’s Education and Events Lineup for JA New York

New York--The JA New York Spring trade show is fast approaching, and Jewelers of America has announced its full agenda of events taking place during the March event.

Sunday, March 11 will kick off with a session on “Embracing E-Commerce without the Expense and Expertise,” with speaker Lauren Kennedy, the vice president of marketing at Bright Society. Kennedy will talk about the expectations of consumers when visiting e-commerce sites and the most essential aspects of selling online on which retailers should focus.

Tammy Lail, merchandising vice president at Stuller Inc., will lead a session titled “Maximizing Your Repair Profit,” covering strategies and solutions for making the most of repair sales.

President and CEO of Performance Concepts, Inc. Kate Peterson and President and CEO of Diamond Council of America Terry Chandler will tell attendees how to “Sharpen Your Competitive Edge.” The session will focus on how to train employees to best serve today’s educated consumer.

In “Capitalize on the Diamonds Do Good Message--A Win/Win for Your Business and Your Customers,” Nancy Orem Lyman, the executive director of the Diamond Empowerment Fund, will explain how businesses can successfully convey what they’re doing responsibly and ethically to millennial consumers who are interested in purchases that make a difference.

On Sunday night, JA will partner with Jewelers for Children to host “Celebrate New York,” a cocktail party and silent auction, which will raise money for the latter. Taking place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Special Events Hall at the Javits Center, the event includes an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, silent auction, DJ & dancing.

Attendance is free for Jewelers of America members, who can register online. The event also is sponsored by JA New York, Jewelers Mutual Insurance Group and Synchrony Financial.

Then, on Monday, March 12, JA will host an Idea Exchange at 8 a.m., giving show attendees an opportunity to discuss and brainstorm topics pertinent to the jewelry business. While free to attend, space for the exchange is limited and attendance should be confirmed online to reserve a spot.

Also happening Monday at 1 p.m. is JA’s Professional Certification exams in sales and management. Those who register in advance will receive $10 off the exam fee.

Monday’s educational agenda kicks off with a “Stand Out on Social Media” discussion, led by Amanda Gizzi, director of public relations and events at JA, and Lauren Kalma, JA’s public relations