FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 3, 2026
Discover the beauty of Colorado Springs, co
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is a vibrant city that beautifully blends natural splendor with cultural richness.
Colorado Springs is home to an array of natural wonders, each offering breathtaking vistas and endless opportunities for exploration. The Garden of the Gods features striking red rock formations, perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and photography. Nearby, Pikes Peak offers opportunities for hiking, driving, or taking a scenic railway to its summit for stunning views. Colorado Springs offers a vibrant cultural scene featuring museums like the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and a lively local arts community. The downtown area is bustling with eclectic shops, cafés, and diverse dining options, catering to all tastes from casual to fine dining.
Our next conference destination is one that inspires and invigorates, offering a harmonious blend of adventure, culture, and community. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of outdoor exploration or the comfort of a friendly atmosphere, this city promises an experience that is both unforgettable and rejuvenating.
The Broadmoor resort
Experience the Timeless Beauty of The Broadmoor
Since its grand opening over a century ago, The Broadmoor has provided guests with an extraordinary opportunity to immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of the American West. Today, as the world’s longest-running consecutive Forbes FiveStar and AAA Five-Diamond resort, this tradition continues with warm, genuine hospitality alongside an unparalleled selection of adventures and activities that honor the breathtaking surroundings.
Located on the southern edge of the Rocky Mountains in the Cheyenne Mountain foothills of Colorado Springs, the resort spans 5,000 acres of gorgeous landscapes waiting to be explored. This iconic hotel features twenty restaurants, cafés and lounges, two legendary golf courses, a world-renowned Five-Star Spa and 20 unique retail outlets.
$259 (INCLUSIVE OF RESORT FEE)
NICOLE BROMSTAD OF THE JEWELRY BOOK
SATURDAY BREAKFAST & PRESENTATION
Join Nicole Bromstad, Publisher of The Jewelry Book trade publication, on Saturday morning as she explores the trends shaping 2026; what’s in, what’s out, and what’s next. From the sparkle of diamonds to the timeless allure of pearls and all the colors of gemstones, Nicole reminds us that every trend begins and ends with truly knowing your customer, their lifestyle, values, and style. Get ready for an insightful, energizing oration that blends economic insight, market direction, and the one trend that never goes out of style: connection.
SATURDAY February 28
7:30 AM- 8:00 AM Breakfast
8:00 AM- 8:45 AM Presentation
*Breakfast will not be available after 8:00 AM
MONDAY BREAKFAST: MEET WITH YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
This is a great opportunity to help IJO help you, while enjoying some breakfast to kickstart your day. We are looking to develop new ideas, programs and tools to make the organization the best it can possibly be. If you have a thought or suggestion, we want to hear from you. Bring any ideas for new programs, content, and networking that could help grow your business. We want to get as much participation as possible from every member of IJO. Importantly, this meeting is with your Board of Directorsno IJO staff members will be present for any part of the meeting. We encourage EVERYONE to attend, bring ideas and share them.
MONDAY March 2
8:00 AM- 8:30 AM Continental Breakfast
8:30 AM- 9:30 AM Meeting
*All are welcome!
RETAILER LUNCH
Conveniently located near the buying room, come grab a bite to eat to recharge your energy so you can take on everything the afternoon has to bring. Compliments of IJO.
MONDAY March 2
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
KYLE SCHEELE
Keynote Speaker
How to turn yourself (and your organization) into an innovation machine . . .
If there’s one belief that might be hindering your team’s potential, it’s the notion that some individuals are inherently creative while others are not. This perspective stems from outdated concepts surrounding creativity—its origins and who is allowed to tap into it. The reality is that creativity is a skill, much like any other, and it can be cultivated.
Just as we educate employees on tracking expenses, processing invoices, and accessing the supply closet, we can also teach them how to enhance their creativity, generate better ideas, and foster a culture where innovation flourishes naturally.
In this keynote presentation, Kyle will motivate you to unlock your own creative and innovative potential. He will provide practical strategies to help you and your team generate more and higher-quality ideas. You’ll discover the five essential elements every idea requires and learn how to steer clear of common idea-killers within your organization.
Kyle is brimming with “wild” ideas. One of his concepts for a Christmas gift quickly amassed over 1 million TikTok followers overnight. His plan for a fake marathon attracted 34,477 participants eager to “run.” Additionally, his unique birthday party idea encouraged over 21,000 people to let go of their regrets in a shared experience.
His inventive ideas have gained recognition in major publications such as the Washington Post, Fast Company, GoalCast, UpWorthy, BuzzFeed, Yahoo!, and many others. His projects have amassed over 200 million views. What’s even more inspiring is that by pursuing his own imaginative ideas, Kyle has motivated countless others to pursue theirs.
SUNDAY March 1
9:00AM-11:00 AM
OPENING COCKTAIL RECEPTION
This reception is a wonderful time to reconnect with fellow IJO members and engage in lively discussions while sipping your favorite drink of choice. There’s nothing like being able to spend some social time with your IJO friends. Don’t miss the chance to see some exciting lines from your IJO vendors and vote for the best tower display.
SATURDAY February 28 6:00 PM- 7:30 PM Bars close at 7:00 PM
NEXT GEN HAPPY HOUR
Here’s a chance for you to connect in a purely social atmosphere and engage with the upcoming generation of store owners. The event will include introductions, icebreakers, and opportunities to network, exchange ideas, share laughter, and enjoy yourselves. This gathering is for individuals aged 21 and over and is specifically designed for those already working in the industry.
SUNDAY March 1
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM Open bar provided!
We hope you’ll join us for another fun Kids Event. Jewelry making, gemstone identifying, jewelry inspired coloring activities, crafts and lots of fun! This is not a drop off event; an adult must be present. There is no age restriction since this is a chaperoned event.
SATURDAY February 28
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
TRIVIA NIGHT *NEW EVENT
Join us after dinner for an exhilarating Trivia Night! Challenge your knowledge across a range of topics while enjoying a delightful evening filled with friendly competition. It’s an ideal opportunity to relax and create lasting memories.
SATURDAY February 28
9:00 PM Cash bar
STEP INTO THE ROARING TWENTIES
Get ready to party like Gatsby at the most dazzling soirée of the season! We’re throwing a Roaring ‘20s bash that’ll transport you straight into the glitz, glamour, and wild energy of the Age!
WHAT TO EXPECT
• Live music that’ll keep your feet moving all night.
• Gambling tables galore — try your luck at poker, blackjack, and roulette.
• Speakeasy vibes with cocktails flowing from an open bar and secrets whispered.
• Dress to impress: Flappers, gangsters, bootleggers, and dapper dames- costumes are greatly encouraged, but of course never mandatory! Channel your inner Daisy Buchanan or Al Capone and come dressed to dazzle.
Join us for an evening celebrating the most decadent decade in history. Grab your feathered headbands, polish your wingtips, and enjoy a night of music, mischief, and mayhem.
MONDAY March 2
8:30 PM - 11:30 PM
Open bar, snacks and desserts provided. All are welcome!
Reach
EDUCATIONAL BUSINESS PROGRAMS
TEAM CLINICS
Teams are separated by non-competitive peers with same store type and mixed volume. Each team will consist of approximately 25 participants (limit 2 per store) for greater flow of information, sharing of ideas and problem solving to increase profits and revenue. Team Clinics are limited in space and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to pre-register. We are always looking for Team Captains, if you would like to volunteer, please indicate on the form or email jill@ijo.com.
SATURDAY February 28
3:00 PM - 5:45 PM
VIDEO ADS, PHOTOS, DIGITAL AND PRINT MARKETING
STORE CONFERENCES
Industry experts in key business areas are available for a valuable one-on-one discussion in 30-minute time slots. Space is limited and available on a first-come first-served basis. Sign up on-line by February 6th.
Stephen BarnesIJO, Succession, Transition, Financials Larry JohnsonVisual Merchandising, Display Consulting Independent Retailers AssociationAdvertising, Education, Sales Training
During Buying Room Hours By Appointment Only
AVP Digital Studios creates multimedia ads designed for the independent jeweler to use on cable and broadcast, social media, website, radio and in your store. Demo and discuss your options with AVP, who can even produce your video on-site. Call AVP at 800-632-2188 ahead of the conference to learn more.
BUYING ROOM
The Highlight Of Every IJO Conference
A superb opportunity to look at the latest, greatest and most anticipated jewelry designs of the year. Join some of the most distinguished jewelry exhibitors in the industry as they showcase their wares, including many IJO exclusives.
Complimentary snacks & beverages for all!
SUNDAY MARCH 1
12:00 PM - 7:00 PM Buying Room 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Cocktail Reception
MONDAY MARCH 2
8:30 AM - Vendor Only Coffee Chat
Come and chat with your IJO Leadership! Stephen, Jennifer, and Sam will be available to address your questions and listen to your concerns. Whether you need clarification on certain topics, or simply wish to share your thoughts, this is a wonderful chance for open and friendly dialogue. Grab a coffee and a bite to eat, we look forward to having a productive and enjoyable conversation! This will take place in the buying room.
9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Buying Room 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Cocktail Reception
TUESDAY MARCH 3
9:30 AM - 2:00 PM Buying Room
SPEED DATING
With IJO Vendors
Experience a unique networking event that blends speed dating with business connections. Retailers will choose three unfamiliar vendors to learn about, and IJO will match them for 15-minute one-on-one sessions, allowing vendors to showcase their offerings in a low-pressure environment. This is a great opportunity to learn about companies and products you might have otherwise overlooked. Retailers will select vendors from the entire list of IJO vendors during the registration process. All vendors are automatically entered, but can, of course, choose not to participate if they are selected.
SEM INARS
Saturday February 28
ALL SESSIONS ARE OPEN TO RETAIL AND VENDOR IJO MEMBERS!
GROWTH AND SUCCESS THROUGH LEARNING
IJO strives to be accommodating to members with any disabilities and/or handicaps. Please call Jennifer Herold prior to the conference if we can be of any assistance with your needs
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
AI-POWERED RETAIL: CHATGPT AND CLAUDE AI FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS WITH JENNIFER SHAHEEN OF THE TECHNOLOGY THERAPY GROUP
AI tools are revolutionizing the way jewelry businesses operate, market, and analyze customer insights. In this session, attendees will learn how to leverage two cutting-edge AI platforms — Claude AI and ChatGPT — to enhance business efficiency and refine marketing strategies. Learn how Claude AI can generate high-quality content and assist with basic code review, and how ChatGPT can analyze customer reviews to refine business strategies. Each tool will be covered in a dedicated segment with real-world, jewelry retail use cases and step-by-step guidance. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of how these tools work, where they fit into their business, and how to implement these AI-driven efficiencies immediately.
9:00 AM - 10:45 AM DOUBLE SESSION
IJO BUSINESS COURSE: YOUR PEOPLE WITH ERIC LOCH
This is one of three newly revamped and updated Business Courses offered by IJO at our conferences to help each of you run your businesses more profitably and manage your employees more effectively. People are the primary ingredient in causing a business to succeed or fail. So, the vital questions come down to 1) How do you hire good people? 2) How do you train them? 3) How do you retain them? 4) How do you reward them? This course gives insight into just HOW to do all these things for YOUR PEOPLE!
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
MACRO TRENDS IN NATURAL DIAMOND SALES: INSIGHTS FROM DE BEERS WITH EMMY KONDO AND EDAHN GOLAN
Join Emmy Kondo of De Beers for an exclusive look at the evolving landscape of the natural diamond market. This insightful session will explore recent macro trends in global diamond sales, review holiday performance highlights, and offer a forward-looking perspective on what’s ahead for 2026. Gain valuable industry insights to help you navigate changing consumer demand and market dynamics in the year to come. Edahn Golan is globally known for research and analytics specific to the diamond market and is used by everyone from Warren Buffet to Bernard Arnault to ensure data is accurate ahead of decision making
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
UNDERSTANDING A DIAMOND’S VALUE: 4CS TO THE COUNTER WITH LISA KENNEDY OF GIA
Diamond color, clarity, cut, and carat weight are collectively termed the “4Cs” – the factors that define a diamond’s quality and ultimately influence its value. Join GIA Technical Advisor, Lisa Kennedy, GIA GG, as she details the 4Cs and how to quickly evaluate and present a diamond’s quality in an over-the-counter setting.
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
UNDERSTANDING KPIS: TURNING PERFORMANCE METRICS INTO ACTION WITH BECKA JOHNSON KIBBY, G.G., AND SHERRY SMITH OF EDGE RETAIL ACADEMY
This session is designed for store owners, managers, sales leaders, and inventory or operations professionals who want to move beyond “just the numbers” and learn how to use Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to make informed, profitable decisions. Whether you’re tracking sales, inventory, or staff performance, this session will help you turn data into meaningful action. Numbers alone don’t grow a business — knowing what they mean and what to do with them does. Attendees will learn how to identify, interpret, and act on the KPIs that matter most in retail jewelry businesses. Using real-world examples and benchmarking data from independent jewelers, we’ll demystify financial and operational metrics that drive growth and profitability.
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
EXCEPTIONAL GEMSTONES: PARAIBA, PADPARADSCHA, ZIRCON, TSAVORITE, SPINEL (+ TOURMALINE) WITH LISA KENNEDY OF GIA Rubies, sapphires, and emeralds may steal the spotlight, but there’s a whole world of exceptional gemstones waiting to be explored. Join GIA Technical Advisor, Lisa Kennedy, GIA GG, for an inspiring journey into the vibrant stories and stunning colors of Paraiba, Padparadscha, Zircon, Tsavorite, Spinel, and others. You’ll walk away with quick, actionable tips on how to present these stones with confidence and connect their stories to your customers.
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
PASSING THE TORCH: PRACTICAL SUCCESSION STRATEGIES FOR FAMILY JEWELRY BUSINESSES WITH ANDREW JONES OF MICHAEL BEST AND FRIEDRICH LLP
Succession planning for family businesses isn’t just about documents—it’s about preserving your legacy and ensuring a smooth transition for the next generation. This session will explore actionable strategies to prepare your family business for ownership changes, minimizing conflict and protecting value. Learn how proactive planning safeguards relationships and strengthens long-term success.
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
PANEL DISCUSSION: YOUR SECRETS TO SUCCESS - RESILIENCE AND EMBRACING OPPORTUNITY WITH JOHN CARTER OF JACK LEWIS JEWELERS AND LARRY RICKERT OF JIM KRYSHAK JEWELERS & MORE!
Join us for an inspiring and candid conversation with some of IJO’s most successful retailers as they share the personal philosophies, pivotal moments, and strategies that have shaped their journeys to success. This panel will explore the power of resilience—how to stay motivated and adapt when faced with challenges or plateaus—and the importance of remaining open to new opportunities in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Join us to hear how these retailers developed their business strategies and seized new opportunities as they share personal stories of growth, reinvention, and perseverance. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to reignite your passion, this session will offer valuable insights and actionable advice to help you grow and thrive.
10:00 AM -10:45 AM
THE FUTURE OF CLIENTELING WITH AI WITH BRANDON WRIGHT OF CLIENTBOOK
As technology reshapes the retail landscape, one truth remains: relationships still drive sales. In this session, Brandon Wright, CEO of Clientbook, explores how jewelers can harness artificial intelligence to personalize every client interaction without losing the human connection that makes their business shine. From AI-powered insights that help you anticipate client needs to tools that streamline follow-ups and elevate service, Brandon will share practical, real-world ways to bring technology and empathy together. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies to future-proof their clienteling approach and keep relationships at the heart of every sale.
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
CREATIVE MERCHANDISING 101 WITH BRECKEN AND JONATHAN FARNSWORTH OF PARLÉ
Discover how to transform your showcases into powerful storytelling tools that reflect your brand and captivate your customers. Learn simple, creative ways to curate collections, balance color and price, and design displays that inspire connection and drive sales.
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM DOUBLE SESSION
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY – GEMSTONE LIVE: AN INTRODUCTION WITH DCA
This dynamic session offers an engaging preview of the in-depth Colored Gemstone Course. Participants will explore the allure, rarity, and symbolism of colored gemstones, gaining insights into how these elements influence consumer desire. Practical tips on presentation and customer guidance will also be covered, along with strategies to position oneself as a knowledgeable and trusted advisor. This class is ideal for anyone looking to elevate their gemstone knowledge and grow professionally in this space. You will leave with a DCA certificate of completion.
SEM INARS
ALL SESSIONS ARE OPEN TO RETAIL AND VENDOR IJO MEMBERS! Saturday February 28
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
MASTERING YOUR OPEN-TO-BUY: TURNING INVENTORY DATA INTO PROFIT WITH BECKA JOHNSON KIBBY, G.G., AND SHERRY SMITH OF EDGE RETAIL ACADEMY
This session is designed for independent jewelry store owners, store managers, inventory buyers, and operations leaders who want to improve cash flow, strengthen profitability, and make smarter, data-driven inventory decisions. Whether you’re new to Open-to-Buy (OTB) planning or looking to refine your existing process, this session will provide actionable insights tailored specifically to the fine jewelry industry. Attendees will learn how to create, understand, and manage an effective Open-to-Buy plan — a cornerstone tool for maintaining optimal inventory levels and maximizing financial return.
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT: BUILDING A CULTURE OF ACCOUNTABILITY AND ENGAGEMENT WITH SARAH ZIEMBA
As the workplace continues to evolve, small business leaders need practical, people-first approaches to managing performance. This session explores how to set clear expectations, deliver meaningful feedback, and build a culture where individuals stay engaged, accountable, and aligned.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP IN A FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS: TRANSITION PLANNING AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT WITH PAMELA FLEMMING OF CAZA COLLECTIVE
Family-owned businesses in the gem and jewelry industry face unique challenges when it comes to succession and leadership continuity. This session will explore how to identify and develop future leaders within the family and among key employees to maintain stability and preserve legacy. Attendees will gain practical strategies for creating structured development plans, clarifying roles, and balancing family dynamics with sound business practices. The session will also cover how to implement effective transition planning processes, communicate leadership changes with transparency, and ensure the next generation is equipped to drive innovation and sustain long-term growth.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
IJO BENEFITS AND RESOURCES WITH PENNY PALMER, IJO DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES
Are you getting the most out of your IJO membership? Are there resources you don’t even know are available? This session is a great introduction for first-time attendees and a great way to maximize the benefits you enjoy as part of the IJO family. In addition to learning about IJO services for new members, this is a valuable refresher for all IJO members!
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
PROTECTING MARGIN & REPUTATION: A LEGAL TOOLKIT FOR RISK MANAGEMENT WITH ANDY JONES AND MARK IHNAT OF MICHAEL BEST AND FRIEDRICH LLP
Jewelry businesses face unique risks—from employee issues to liability concerns and vendor disputes. This session will outline key legal safeguards every store owner should implement to reduce exposure and avoid costly surprises. Walk away with practical tools to protect your assets, reputation, and peace of mind.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
THE PERSONALIZATION PLAYBOOK: TURNING CUSTOMER DATA INTO LOYAL RELATIONSHIPS WITH JENNIFER SHAHEEN OF THE TECHNOLOGY THERAPY GROUP
Transform your jewelry business by mastering the art of personalization through strategic data capture and utilization. Learn practical techniques for gathering valuable customer insights during in-store interactions, from initial consultations to follow-up appointments. Discover how to analyze customer data to uncover buying patterns and preferences, then apply these insights to create seamless omnichannel marketing experiences. This session covers the five foundational promises of personalization, actionable strategies for building comprehensive customer profiles, and step-by-step guidance for launching personalized marketing campaigns across email, SMS, and in-store touchpoints.
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
AVOIDING HIRING PITFALLS: HOW TO SPOT & SECURE THE RIGHT CANDIDATES WITH PAMELA FLEMMING OF CAZA COLLECTIVE
Hiring the wrong person can be costly, especially in specialized fields like jewelry, where technical expertise, trust, and cultural alignment are everything. This session explores the art and science of hiring within niche industries, helping attendees learn how to separate strong interviewers from true performers. Participants will uncover how unconscious bias can shape hiring decisions, recognize subtle red flags in resumes and interviews, and apply strategies to reduce turnover through more intentional evaluation. The discussion will also walk through how to define your ideal candidate profile, implement structured interview techniques, and use behavioral questions to reveal motivation, mindset, and long-term potential, ensuring every hire strengthens your business from the inside out.
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
6 STEPS TO SUSTAINABLE STORE GROWTH: A PROVEN SYSTEM FOR CLARITY AND MOMENTUM WITH CRYSTAL VILKAITIS OF INDEPENDENT RETAILERS ASSOCIATION (INDERA)
Every successful store needs a system that keeps it running smoothly, so you can focus on what you love most. In this breakout, The Wolf of Main Street, Crystal Vilkaitis, shares how store owners can use a simple 6-step framework to create structure, simplify decisions, and fuel consistent growth. You’ll walk away with clarity, focus, and the first action steps to transform your store into a business that thrives, whether you’re in the room or not.
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM ESTATE JEWELRY ESSENTIALS: ERAS, APPEAL, AND SELLING STRATEGIES WITH REBEKAH ANDERSON OF EARTH PEBBLES
Estate jewelry has been somewhat mysterious to the trade and sometimes intimidating to the retail jeweler. I will be presenting on how to tap into the strongest growing market in the industry, how to have a product that cannot be shopped, therefore higher profit margins, and hitting a fast-growing target market of the self-purchasing woman.
The estate market is growing rapidly due to many celebrities (Taylor Swift’s engagement ring, etc.) who wear it, people want one-of-a-kind, something their girlfriends will want but can’t have the exact one! Stores have an opportunity to sell one “line” or host events that reach a very large pool of self-purchasers. The presentation will also cover the major eras of jewelry, which years they were popular, and how to determine which era is which.
TUESDAY March 3 - 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
WHAT’S NEW IN THE EDGE: FRESH UPDATES, SMARTER TOOLS, AND MORE WAYS TO WIN WITH LENNY PRION OF EDGE BY ABBOTT JEWELRY SYSTEMS
Lenny is excited to share what’s new with The Edge since our last get-together! We’ve been hard at work making improvements designed to save you time, boost your profits, and help you run your store more smoothly. From smarter tools to everyday enhancements, this session is all about helping you work more efficiently and get the most out of The Edge. Whether you’re a longtime user or just getting started, you’ll leave with ideas you can put to work right away
VIP BRUNCH
By Invitation Only
Sit down and grab a bite or jump into a boisterous discussion while you enjoy delicious food and a joyous time with fellow IJO friends. This VIP brunch will make it simple to come and go at your convenience so you can keep your schedule on track.
SUNDAY March 1
11:00 AM- 12:30 PM
CHAIRMAN’S DINNER
By Invitation Only
You and your spouse are cordially invited to what is one of the most exclusive dinner events of the IJO conference, hosted by Stephen and Rebecca Barnes. This evening is dedicated to those IJO members who have achieved Chairman’s Circle status or higher.
SUNDAY March 1 7:00 PM
elite night
By Invitation Only
At Cheyenne Lodge at The Broadmoor, your party unfolds in true Colorado style—rustic and elevated. Cheyenne Lodge, owned by the Broadmoor, is a 10-minute ride up the mountain. Guests will be greeted by sweeping mountain views and the scent of fresh pine as they gather for an evening steeped in the magic of the Rockies. Chef-curated dinner stations serve up hearty mountain fare alongside sweet, campfire-inspired treats, while the open bar keeps spirits high with craft cocktails, local brews, and top-shelf pours. Guests will enjoy a variety of immersive experiences. You can test your aim at the tomahawk toss or geode smashing offers a hands-on thrill, revealing glittering crystals hidden within rugged stone. As the sun sets among the glow of the firepits, cozy up with s’mores and a hot drink. Whiskey tasting will add a refined touch, with a curated flight of Colorado’s finest. All the while, great music fills the air as we enjoy an evening amongst IJO family. This will be a receptionstyle, relaxed evening. Wear your mountain-inspired, weatherappropriate attire for an indoor/outdoor event and kick back with friends in the Rocky Mountains.
TUESDAY March 3 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
AT A GLANCE
All In One Place
Everything IJO
SATURDAY February 28
7:30 AM - 8:00 AM Breakfast
8:00 AM - 8:45 AM Program
Trends Shaping 2026 with Nicole Bromstad of The Jewelry Book
*Breakfast will not be available after 8:00 AM
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
AI-Powered Retail: ChatGPT and Claude AI for Business Success with Jennifer Shaheen
9:00 AM - 10:45 AM DOUBLE SESSION
IJO Business Course: Your People with Eric Loch
9:00 AM -9:45 AM
Macro Trends in Natural Diamond Sales: Insights from De Beers with Emmy Kondo, VP Marketing and Strategy
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
Understanding A Diamond’s Value: 4cs to the Counter with Lisa Kennedy of GIA
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
Understanding KPIs: Turning Performance Metrics into Action with Becka Johnson Kibby, GG, and Sherry Smith of Edge Retail Academy
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Exceptional Gemstones: Paraiba, Padparadscha, Zircon, Tsavorite, Spinel (+ Tourmaline) with Lisa Kennedy of GIA
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Passing The Torch: Practical Succession Strategies for Family Jewelry Businesses with Andrew Jones of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Panel Discussion: Your Secrets to SuccessResilience & Embracing Opportunity with John Carter of Jack Lewis Jewelers & Larry Rickert of Jim Kryshak Jewelers & More!
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
The Future of Clienteling With AI with Brandon Wright of Clientbook
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Creative Merchandising 101 with Brecken & Jonathan Farnsworth of Parlé
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM DOUBLE SESSION
Executive Summary – Gemstone Live: An Introduction With DCA
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Mastering Your Open-To-Buy: Turning Inventory Data into Profit with Becka Johnson Kibby, G.G., and Sherry Smith of Edge Retail Academy
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Performance Management: Building A Culture of Accountability and Engagement with Sarah Ziemba
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
Developing Leadership in a FamilyOwned Business: Transition Planning and Leadership Development with Pamela Flemming of CAZA Collective
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
IJO Benefits and Resources with Penny Palmer, IJO Director of Member Services
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
Protecting Margin & Reputation: A Legal Toolkit for Risk Management with Andy Jones & Mark Ihnat of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM
The Personalization Playbook: Turning Customer Data into Loyal Relationships with Jennifer Shaheen
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
Avoiding Hiring Pitfalls: How to Spot and Secure the Right Candidates with Pamela Flemming of CAZA Collective
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
6 Steps To Sustainable Store Growth: A Proven System For Clarity and Momentum with Crystal Vilkaitis of Independent Retailers Association (IndERA)
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
Estate Jewelry Essentials: Eras, Appeal, and Selling Strategies with Rebekah Anderson of Earth Pebbles
3:00 PM - 5:45 PM Team Clinics
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
IJO Kids Event
*This is not a drop-off event; an adult must be present.
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM *Bars close at 7PM
Opening Cocktail Reception
All retailers and vendors are welcome!
9:00 PM
Trivia Night *New Event
SUNDAY March 1
7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
Non-denominational Worship Service
All are welcome!
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
General Session and Keynote Presentation with Kyle Scheele
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
VIP Brunch By Invitation Only
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
New Member Brunch By Invitation Only
12:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Buying Room Open
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Buying Room Cocktail Reception
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Next Generation Happy Hour
7:00 PM
Chairman’s Dinner By Invitation Only
MONDAY March 2
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Membership Meeting with your Board of Directors & Breakfast
All are welcome!
8:30 AM
Vendor Only Coffee Chat
9:30 AM
Guest Member Recap with Penny Palmer, IJO Director of Member Services
9:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Buying Room Open
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Complimentary Retailer Lunch
All retailers welcome!
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Buying Room Cocktail Reception
8:30 PM - 11:30 PM
Roaring Twenties Theme Party
All are welcome!
TUESDAY March 3
9:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Buying Room Open
2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
The Edge: What’s New in the Edge: Fresh Updates, Smarter Tools, & More Ways to Win! With Lenny Prion of Edge by Abbott Jewelry Systems
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Elite Night By Invitation Only
IJO Exams – Pre-registration is required
(See IJO Registration Desk to schedule your date & time)
DON’T WAIT, REGISTER NOW!
RETAILER CONFERENCE REGISTRATION $150
