Four years after moving to Mandalay Bay, the LUXURY show hits its stride

The 2014 edition of LUXURY (May 27–June 2 at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino) will offer all the sophistication that the industry expects of the Vegas show—and even more networking and socializing.

First, there’s the debut of the LUXURY Retailer of the Year awards, honoring merchants “who best innovate and sell both fashion and fine jewelry,” according to John Tierney, JCK Events industry vice president. Retailers and exhibitors are encouraged to cast their votes for five finalists who will be promoted during the show; a winner will be announced in a special presentation on May 29.

Attendees will notice several new vendors within the LUXURY and Elite Enclave sections, including a crew of Italians—Stroili Oro Group, Italian Design Srl, and ­Andreoli—Los Angeles–based Krizanti, and Antwerp, ­Belgium–based Unrounds, which specializes in (you guessed it) fancy-shaped diamond fashion jewelry.

The show also is giving some exhibitors the chance to spread out. Anyone looking for Tacori will find the brand in a private ballroom within the LUXURY show. (The other two ballrooms are occupied by Scott Kay and Pandora.)

President of sales and marketing Paul Tacorian opted for the bigger, more private location to better tell Tacori’s revamped lifestyle story, which features prominently in its new media campaign. “We’re a California brand—our roots are in California, the way we think and do is about California, and California has afforded my family and many of our employees the same terrific opportunities,” says Tacorian.

And it wouldn’t be LUXURY without a few convivial mixers. Rabble-rousers should hit the LUXURY Gala on Tuesday for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a sit-down dinner; LUXURY All-Access badge holders can take in Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson ONE show afterward. If, however, you prefer to spend your free time lounging by the pool, bring your business cards; organizers are planning a number of poolside gatherings at the Four Seasons.