JA will also provide tools to help JA members who are interested in hitting Capitol Hill on their own on Wednesday, September 18. JA will assist in setting up meetings to advocate for your business and support JA’s efforts to speak up for jewelers.
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
The Army Navy Club on Farragut Square
901 Seventeenth Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20006
REGISTER
Registration is $75 per attendee - price includes the workshop, lunch and cocktail party.
Thank You To Our Sponsors
Synchrony | Jewelers Mutual Group | International Gemological Institute (IGI)
Event Program
September 17, 20248:30–9:30AM | Welcome/Coffee/Networking
9:45–10:30AM| Learning Workshop: The National Retail Federation on the Future of AI and Retail
- Presented by Christian Beckner, Vice President, Retail Technology & Cybersecurity
Executive Director, NRF Center for Digital Risk & Innovation - From research to the development of principles for the sector, NRF has been a leader in helping retailers understand how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming businesses large and small. Hear from NRF VP Christian Beckner on the rise of AI capabilities and how retailers can use these tools to better serve customers and improve business performance.
- Presented by Dr. Wilfried Zeisler, Deputy Director & Chief Curator, Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
- Housing the most comprehensive collection of Russian imperial art outside of Russia itself, as well as an extensive array of 18th century French decorative arts, Washington D.C.’s Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens offers an immersive journey into the past. Gifted to the public from art collector, business executive, social figure, and philanthropist Marjorie Merriweather Post, the exquisite collection includes Post's personal collection of apparel, accessories, and jewelry. Dr. Wilfried Zeisler, Deputy Director and Chief Curator, shares his insight and expertise on the most exceptional jewels in the collection.
- Panelists: Jon Bridge, Chairman and Counsel Emeritus, Ben Bridge Jeweler, Inc.; Constance Polamalu, Chief Operating Officer, Zachary’s Jewelers; David J. Bonaparte, President and CEO, Jewelers of America
- Jewelers of America has long advocated for jewelers’ interests on Capitol Hill. Ahead of our 12th legislative fly-in, we’ll discuss some of the biggest issues facing the industry and how building and maintaining key relationships with Congress has been critical to giving JA members a voice on policies that impact their businesses and the jewelry industry.
1:15–1:30PM | Membership Minutes with Jewelers of America
1:30–2:15PM | Learning Workshop: Panel: Sparkling Strategies for Digital Marketing
- Amina Sorel, CEO/Founder at Amina Sorel Fine Jewelry, and Amanda Coleman-Phelps, President/Owner of Nelson Coleman Jewelers & Jewelry By Designs. Moderated by Amanda Gizzi, Director of PR & Events at Jewelers of America
- Unlock the secrets of digital marketing in the jewelry industry. This panel discussion will reveal the latest digital marketing tools and trends shaping online success. Our esteemed panelists will share insights from their experiences navigating the unique nuances of marketing fine jewelry online. From enhancing brand storytelling to optimizing e-commerce channels and increased customer engagement tools, attendees will gain valuable perspectives on how to stand out in the crowded digital marketplace.
- Presented by John Pollard, Senior Director of Education, International Gemological Institute
- Embrace the modern market - Rethink your approach to ignite new enthusiasm for both natural and lab grown diamonds. Whether today’s marvel of technology or the inconceivably ancient miracle of nature, learn how to effectively help consumers consider what’s most appealing about ALL the diamonds you sell, period!
- Presented by Mitch Erdel, Vice President, Government Affairs, Synchrony and Dwight A. Fettig, Partner of Porterfield, Fettig & Sears
- In this session, Synchrony will discuss legislative threats and opportunities that may affect JA member companies in 2025. The session will include a discussion of the 2024 election, what is likely to move in DC in 2025, challenges on the state level, and how JA members can engage with their policymakers.
September 18, 2024
Walk the Hill (optional)
JA will provide tools for interested attendees to set up meetings with their representatives on Capitol Hill. Participants will be equipped with tips and talking points to discuss key issues with legislators at their own pace.
