The Women’s Jewelry Association, in partnership with Macy’s on State in Chicago, will present the first “Women in the Know – Midwest” business conference. This conference, scheduled for Oct. 19, follows in the footsteps of WJA’s annual conference, held in New York for the past four years, and the recent announcement about the new “Women in the Know – West Coast” to be held Sept. 8 in Anaheim, Calif.
“We are thrilled to roll out this new national conference in the Midwest, which will bring more women together in a business forum for education and networking,” said Ann Arnold, WJA president.
The theme of the Midwest conference, to be held at the Macy’s on State store, is “Inspire, Educate, Connect.”
“We are delighted to work with such a distinguished and legendary organization as Macy’s,” said WJA-Midwest Chapter president and conference chair, Myriam Tashey. “This partnership will greatly help raise awareness of WJA and the conference in our region. We are very thankful for their support.”
The event will also get a promotional boost from the city of Chicago, which has agreed to feature banners along Michigan Avenue and State Street announcing the conference.
The day will feature speakers, educational and motivational presentations, and networking opportunities.
Keynote Speakers include Martin Rapaport, editor-in-chief of the Rapaport Report, a diamond pricing guide, and Susan Jacques, president/chief executive officer of Borsheim’s Fine Jewelry and Gifts, Omaha, Neb.
The event will also include sessions on branding, life management, leadership, and technology chaired by industry professionals and experts, including Cindy Edelstein, of Jeweler’s Resource Bureau, Peter Shemonsky, Circa Jewels, and Linda Zimmer, The Jewelry Industry Coach.
The day will conclude with a fashion show, presenting jewelry by Midwest designers including, Eve Alfillé, Liz Bucheit, Ellie Thompson, Mary Hartman, Julia Failey, Sara Commers, and Sarah Smith with designer fashions from Macy’s on State’s 28 Shop. Fashions include Armani, Dolce Gabbana, Miyake, Dior, and Missoni.
The one-day conference runs from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. The registration fee is $150 for WJA members, $180 for non-members, and $75 for students. Each attendee will receive a CD of the event.
For more information, contact Tashey at 312-920-1541 or Myriam@progem.com.
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