April 26-27, 2025
Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa
Montgomery, AL
DOWNLOAD THE REGISTRATION PDF CONVENTION INFORMATION
Registration for the Convention is through the Alabama Jewelers Association.
Thank You To Our Learning Workshop Sponsors
Synchrony | Jewelers Mutual Group | International Gemological Institute (IGI)
Learning Workshop Program
Saturday, April 26, 2025
Keeping up with AI and Other Technologies Changing the Jewelry Business
Presented by Jennifer Shaheen, President, Technology Therapy- Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been leading the latest technological revolution in retail, offering powerful tools that enhance customer experience, optimize operations, and boost sales. Understanding how to effectively harness AI and other new tools could be the difference in keeping pace and staying relevant or going the way of the dinosaur. This session will offer an overview of the top tech trends in retail today and how to leverage these innovations to enhance your toolkit and future-proof your business.
Jennifer Shaheen is a digital transformation expert, user experience enthusiast, and data insights specialist recognized as the authority in planning, implementing, and translating digital marketing and technology in today’s competitive online environment. Over her twenty-year career, Jennifer has worked as a digital advisor in a myriad of industries, including finance, banking, manufacturing, design, construction, luxury retail, and jewelry. Private equity firms value Jennifer for her ability to deliver sustainable growth and meaningful results when leading the digital launch and rebranding of various organizations. Jennifer Shaheen is a digital transformation expert, user experience enthusiast, and data insights specialist recognized as the authority in planning, implementing, and translating digital marketing and technology in today’s competitive online environment.
Leverage Repairs to Grow Your Business
Presented by Tammy Lail, Owner, TSL Solutions, Inc.
- Providing a reliable repairs service can be an essential tool in building trust and loyalty with customers. This session will offer tips to effectively leverage repair services as part of your overall business strategy. Learn how to better promote repair offerings, streamline processes for efficiency, and create a seamless experience for customers seeking restoration of their treasured pieces.
Tammy Lail is an accomplished business leader with a proven track record of driving profitability and operational efficiency across diverse industries. As the owner of TSL Solutions LLC, she specializes in guiding businesses through the development and implementation of strategic initiatives that improve performance, streamline operations, and generate significant cost savings. Prior to founding TSL Solutions, Lail served in key executive positions at Stuller Inc., where she spearheaded initiatives that boosted revenue and optimized resource management. Her expertise spans operations, finance, and supply chain management, with a particular focus on manufacturing processes and talent development.
Sunday, April 27, 2025
Keynote: On The Cusp: Elevate Your Impact
Presented by Tonya Mitchell, CEO of Inspired Action Coaching and Consulting
- We are always on the cusp of greatness—our own personal greatness. However, too often, we stop just shy of evolving to that next level because we’ve never been there before. The unknown can feel intimidating, and hesitation can keep us from stepping fully into our potential. This session is designed to help you stop waiting and start showing up as your future self—today. Through the On The Cusp framework, you will learn a four-step process that will not only shift your thinking but transform your mindset and actions, ensuring that you elevate your impact in both your personal and professional life.
Tonya Mitchell is a former Human Resources senior manager and executive steering committee member who directed the Talent and Culture division of a government contractor. She has over 25 years Human Resources expertise and is a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources (SHRM-SCP)and Master Certified Professional Coach and Trainer. She has proven success in talent acquisition, learning and leadership development, culture and engagement to implement change for organizational excellence. Her coaching has helped clients transform performance through high leadership impact.
Tonya is the Founder and Executive Director of Diane's Heart nonprofit. She's the author of "Diane's Heart: Transforming Loss to Purpose and Legacy." She is a graduate of The University of Alabama, Leadership Birmingham Class of 2023 as well as a graduate of Nonprofit Executive Leadership Institute (NELI) -Alabama Association of Nonprofits.
Close the Sale: Turn Customer Interest into Confident Purchases
Presented by William Jones IV, President of Sissy’s Log Cabin and Founder of Jewelry Sales Academy (JSA)
- In today’s competitive environment, it takes more than just showing beautiful product to seal the deal. You must build trust and understand customer needs that will help guide them successfully. Attend this session for valuable insights on how to enhance the sales approach and ensure every customer walks away confident and excited about their purchase.
William Jones IV is the President of Sissy’s Log Cabin, leading the company’s growth while preserving its legacy of luxury and excellence. With expertise in sales, operations, and customer experience, he ensures seamless alignment between strategy and execution. Beyond Sissy’s, William drives industry innovation through Jewelry Sales Academy and Jewellink, focusing on sales training and recruitment for jewelers. A member of the Little Rock Executive Association, he is committed to leadership, mentorship, and enhancing the future of luxury retail.
Focus on Selling Diamonds, Period
Presented by John Pollard, Senior Director of Education, International Gemological Institute
- Whether you sell only natural diamonds or have ventured into lab-grown sales, this session will empower you with the skills needed to confidently sell both and appeal to the range of customer preferences. From highlighting the unique attributes of natural and lab-grown, to managing customer questions, learn techniques to ensure your customers walk away informed and excited about their choice.
John Pollard is Senior Director of Education for IGI, overseeing the institute’s education and diploma programs instructed around the world, and designing seminars, workshops, and online courses for clients in all industry sectors, including leading luxury brands. A consultant for producers, laboratories, and retailers on three continents, he has given seminars for JCK Las Vegas, the American Gem Society Conclave, the Gemological Institute of America Alumni Association, and international expos in Beijing and Shanghai, China. A board-certified educator with degrees in gemology, science and music, John has educated thousands of professionals and consumers since joining the industry in 2005.
