It was an eventful and exciting March for us at Jumoke Lagos. We went back to where we love to be, surrounded by jewels with precious stones glittering on different designs; Istanbul Jewellery Show (IJS). Though it was a cold and rainy few days, the trip to the show was worth the frozen fingers and lips. The show was an eye-opener and validation that the brand is moving in the right direction.
The 2023 IJS was our second time experiencing the famous show packed with thousands of stakeholders from around the globe. But this time around it felt different from the first time in 2019 just before Covid shut down the world. It was different because we were there as jellewers and not a jewellery boutique sourcing for items to be sold. It felt good, the growth we have made from our humble beginnings was very visible and rewarding.
Walking through the different aisles was a walk through the value chain. From Jewellery brands with breathtaking designs to innovative equipment for bench jewellers and beautiful jewellery packages for the created beauties. The innovation was not limited to types of equipment, the designs and techniques for production were not only what have been in existence but also new methods of production. The packages were not left out of the innovation bug as well. The jewellery industry is truly evolving and we at Jumoke Lagos are evolving along with it. We were like kids in a candy store surrounded by millions of candies with no parent to stop or control our consumption of sugar!!!!
In addition to the exhibition, there were educational discussions about the industry and its future. We joined the discussion at the inspiration hub and we left there inspired. Inspired and excited about the future with the possibilities it holds for us.
It was a rewarding couple of days, speaking with industry giants, making new connections with other stakeholders from around the world, and learning more about the trade. We loved being there. The wet weather was not enough to dampen our mood.
Though it was a work trip, we snuck in a few days of fun. Visited the Hagia Sophia, enjoyed the roasted corn with walnut sold by the mosque, explored the Bazaar bought some Spices, Turkish delight, and tea from there. We ended the day with a large platter of mixed grill and a chilled can of coke.
Istanbul was great, if you haven’t been there please add it to your list of places to visit.
Lots of love and precious stones
Jumoke Lagos
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