After the epic double bill of Topsfield + the Fall NJ show the weeks previous, the GLW wholesale show was a 'piece of cake' last week. Not exactly, though. I had to scramble to select my offerings by concept: more expensive Display Pieces, including fancy stone birds from Brazil (I was offered 30% below
my purchase cost on the best one); Jade jewelry and other offerings; 3D printed creatures; Bracelets; small Carvings; and Necklaces on super sale.Â
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People appreciate the Jade, 'cause nobody else carries it at most shows, especially at half price. The carvings were not my best selection (being reserved for shows & the shop in December). The fancy display pieces were all over budget for people trying to fill in before the Holidays
(especially relative to some of my friendly competitors at the show). My small 50% off bracelets were not competitive, but will work great Retail. And the buyers who liked the 3D pieces previously, didn't show up. I did have a surprise sale of a valuable Moldavite pendant personally, to the sister of another exhibitor (who asked about, and actually read "My Moldavite Breakthrough" blog post)!Â
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It was one of the worst shows I've done in
this twice annual caper - in terms of financial ROI for me - but was a bonanza in terms of picking up great new product to work into my upcoming Retail selection (including Tucson in Jan/Feb).Â
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Next time, I plan to start integrating a display of minerals, high end and budget/sale items. It's been on my list to do.Â
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My current (and not returning) neighbor inspired me, with his
selection of top quality Quartz clusters and specimens, though he did have a bunch of bottom-of-the-barrel, by-the-flat offerings that I culled from (and didn't help his overall display).
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We have a growing in-store offering at our Portal Crystal Gallery in Arlington, MA of 50% off items - and if you're interested in any items from the video - please be in touch!