NYC Jewelry Week is grateful for the support of Workforce Development Institute in helping us bring a series of short articles based on the education sessions offered to the HWA cohort of 2022 to a wider audience. This curated selection of 10 inspiring blog posts summarizes key virtual programs designed to educate and empower. Originally part of the HERE WE ARE and The Jewelry Project diversity initiatives, these talks and presentations are now available in written format for a broader audience. By partnering with equity-minded organizations, NYCJW aims to provide underrepresented communities with the tools for career advancement and job security. Read the articles below on writing your bio, why commercial photography is important, managing relationships with shops and stores, and so much more!

  • The ‘Why’ of Commercial Photography with Alain Simić

    When you’re a jewelry designer, one imperative thing that often gets overlooked, is taking images to use for selling and marketing your work. This is especially crucial for new designers who are just getting started in the industry. Today, we’ll be hearing from Alain Simić, the established New York photographer specializing in jewelry photography and […]

    Read more here!

  • Navigating the World of Press: Insights from a Jewelry Professional

    Lorraine West draws inspiration from her Caribbean roots, blending bold and minimalist design sensibilities. Influenced by her mother, a baker, and her father, a carpenter, working with her hands comes naturally. For Lorraine, welding and manipulating precious metals is a spiritual process that infuses each design with a unique essence, resulting in jewelry that is […]

    Read more here!

  • Inside the Creative Journey: A Conversation with Marla Aaron

    In the world of jewelry design, crafting exquisite pieces is only part of the equation. Understanding the intricate process of product development, navigating supply chains, and protecting intellectual property are equally important. In November 2022, our Here We Are cohort had the opportunity of sitting down with New York-based jeweler Marla Aaron. They discussed these […]

    Read more here!

  • The Jewelry Business Plan Tool Kit with Kelli Vanyek Greene of Halstead

    In July 2022, the Here We Are cohort had the opportunity to sit in on a presentation on the Jewelry Business Plan Tool Kit by Kelli Vanyek Green, Marketing and Creative Manager at Halstead Jewelry Supplies. We’re thrilled to share a written summary of the conversation. Before we dive in, let’s extend warm appreciation to […]

    Read more here!

  • Embracing Change in the Face of Business Transitions

    For entrepreneurs, adaptability is often the linchpin of success, and few exemplify this better than Meghan Patrice Riley. She has over decade as the driving force behind her eponymous jewelry brand based in Brooklyn. Meghan’s journey is a rich tapestry of resilience, innovation, and steadfast determination. From the bustling streets of Greenpoint to the virtual […]

    Read more here!

  • Writing Your Best Compelling ‘About Page’

    We’re excited to dive into today’s topic: creating a captivating About Page for your brand. We extend our gratitude to Toby Myles, a seasoned copywriter specializing in the jewelry industry, for offering her expertise to share valuable insights and strategies for enhancing your website’s About Page. Toby’s background includes both marketing and jewelry design, giving […]

    Read more here!

Did you enjoy this article? Read more from this series here!


This post is sponsored by the Workforce Development Institute. WDI is a statewide non-profit that works to increase opportunities for all New Yorkers to succeed in the workforce while earning family-sustaining wages.