In LOVE with JCK – A Preview of the Jewelry Fair in Las Vegas

Vivaaa Las Vegas! – For a few days now, we’ve been humming Elvis’s hit in the office, watching the preparations of our Editor-in-Chief, Agata, for her trip to one of the biggest jewelry events in the world. From May 31 to June 3, our #girlboss will be uncovering sparkling inspirations at JCK – the prestigious fair in Las Vegas. What does this event, full of American flair, look like inside the surreal interiors of the famous Venetian hotel? We ask, Agata Jankowiak, founder of Blingsis, answers!

Going to such a large and prestigious event like JCK in Las Vegas is not just a few days spent at the fair for you – it’s a long process of preparation.

That’s true! JCK starts only on May 31, but I’ve been planning my divine Vegas stay in detail for several weeks now. A trip to such a large industry event requires thorough research. I start by reviewing the list of exhibitors. I check IG and the websites of brands I only know by name. From this, I develop my preliminary list of #mustsee booths. When I announce in my channels that I will be attending a particular event, I immediately receive dozens of DMs with invitations to meetings and collaboration proposals. I meticulously construct my calendar to make the best use of time at the fair, scheduling as many conversations as possible – even just a quarter-hour over coffee. JCK also organizes a fabulous accompanying program with inspiring panel discussions and presentations. The topics are very broad: trends, technologies, but also marketing and storytelling. JCK Talks panels are a treasure trove of inspiration.

How do you choose the brands whose collections you want to see at the fair? Do you have any specific criteria?

My trip to JCK has several goals. On one hand, it’s about nurturing industry connections and education, expanding my knowledge of technologies, gems, sustainable development. However, the most important aspect is discovering novelties, seeking inspirations for our community, and spotting trends. The fair in Las Vegas is the best opportunity for a European jewellery enthusiast like myself to explore the offerings of American brands. I love the style of this jewelry: luxurious, old Hollywood glamour. These are the gems we’ll later see on the necks and wrists of global stars at the Oscars or Golden Globes. The possibility of trying on a necklace that perhaps Blake Lively or Zendaya will later wear is abstract, crazy, wonderful. I’ll reveal that I’ve already scheduled a visit to Christopher Designs – an exquisite New York brand, proud of its proprietary diamond cut. I dream of meeting its founder, born in Poland, Christopher Slowinski. The other extreme of jewelry designed in the USA – artistic, boho, distinctly ‘handmade’ – is also very intriguing to me. This style is represented by, for example, Dorian & Rose – a family jewelry brand from LA. On the exhibitor list, I also marked the AGTA (American Gem Trade Association) with an exclamation point. They are specialists in ethically sourced stones and pearls – a topic that greatly interests me, as I am indeed a jewellery enthusiast!

Every large fair has its own vibe, unique atmosphere, and specific program. What sets JCK apart from other events you regularly attend?

The very scenery of Las Vegas creates an irreplicable atmosphere. Everything here is like in a movie. The fair takes place in one of the largest hotels in the world – the famous Venetian. This space is daunting and fascinating: replicas of Italian monuments, plush carpets, boutiques, restaurants, clubs, a conference center – all under one roof. JCK is American flair personified. The event is perfectly ‘packaged’ marketing-wise. This year’s theme is “LOVE”. A capacious, catchy slogan that evokes emotions – Americans do it well! On the JCK website, you can also find this event described as a “jewelry buying experience” – which fits perfectly, as in my view it’s more than just a fair. I would rather use the word “festival” [laughs]. Literally – one of the evening’s stars will be Flo Rida! The tone of the event is also set by an extensive luxury jewelry offering. Add to that ubiquitous red carpets and you know I’ll be running around in ball gowns and heels, trying on diamonds – typical me!

[Laughs] I can totally picture it! Jewelry fair organizers around the world are increasingly appreciating collaborations with bloggers and influencers. You are invited to various panel discussions, competitions, special projects. What does your partnership with JCK look like, what have you planned?

I’ve managed to build a reputation for Blingsis as a platform valued for its super aesthetic, creative content. The industry loves my editorials, trend reviews, dynamic, beautiful reels. The value of my work has been recognized by the organizers of JCK, who have invited me to the fair once again. We’ve planned a series of materials in the form of video reports to bring jewellery enthusiasts from around the world into the interiors of the Venetian hotel through the camera. With my phone, lights, and entire mobile video studio, I won’t be parting ways for a moment! Expect hundreds of carats of inspiration: from a review of luxury collections to fashion gems for every budget – all according to my personal selection.

During this madness, will you find time to relax and explore Las Vegas?

During my last trip to JCK (together with Katarzyna), I managed to check off many items on my Vegas Bucket List, but there’s always something new to discover, more to see here. My fair calendar is bursting at the seams, but I won’t deny myself a few hours for leisurely strolls under the neon lights. I love the contrast between the luxurious atmosphere of the fair and the pop culture vibe on the streets. I dream of visiting the Sphere – the gigantic concert sphere in the center of Las Vegas! We usually organize sightseeing with my friends from the press and the beloved girls from the Golden Team and Laura, Esther. Girls just wanna have fun, right?

Agata, we are therefore waiting for postcards and magnets, and above all, tons of jewelry inspirations. One last topic. You’ve skipped over one element of your trip preparations that I know brings you a lot of joy and is also your “signature” … Your outfits!

[Laughs] You know me well! Yes, I already have several spectacular outfits up my sleeve and I’m starting to wonder how I’ll fit everything into my suitcase! Impressive outfits have become a bit of a “personal brand” for me in the jewelry industry. Friends recognize me from afar by my sequined dresses and pink suits [laughs]. I love to dress up, and there’s hardly a better occasion for an extravagant wardrobe than JCK in the luxurious interiors of the Venetian. Expect a fashion show performed by your favorite jewellery enthusiast!