Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I attend Bridge?
Bridge started as an “experimental” program to enrich the communication between our company and our customers. It's maturing into a smart, busy, fun, engaging, three-day event where we discuss the changing landscape of retail jewelry - and better adapt to it.
At Bridge, you will learn to:
- Be more connected with technology as part of an integrated, custom design experience.
- Be more profitable while lowering investments and expanding offerings.
- Be more creative and preview fresh store layouts and enhancements to the customer experience.
When and where is Bridge?
The Bridge 2012 series runs through October. Each conference begins in the late afternoon the first day and concludes in the mid-afternoon of the third day. Each event is limited to a small group of qualified retail jewelers, and will close to new registrants when full.
- June 18-20
- July 9-11
- July 22-24
- August 20-22
- September 17-19
- September 24-26
- October 8-10
Bridge is hosted at Stuller's headquarters in Lafayette, LA, in the center of our manufacturing facility. You'll be amidst the bustle and hum of our daily operations. Of course, a factory tour is included.
How much does Bridge cost?
There is no fee for you to attend the conference. If you are a qualified Stuller customer, you are our guest. We will furnish hotel accommodations, meals and ground transportation. You are only responsible for your travel arrangements to and from Lafayette, LA.
When should I travel?
Many guests are able to arrange travel on the same calendar days that the conference begins and ends. Try to arrive in Lafayette by 4:00pm local time (CST) on day one of your conference to make the start of the opening reception. If you're travelling home the day your conference ends, we ask that you schedule your flights for 3:00pm or later. (Official programming ends by 2:00pm on day three, but we're open for optional extended visits or departmental tours until 5:00pm).
What's expected of me?
Learn. Participate. Enjoy. Provide feedback. Evaluate our offerings. Tell us about your business. Consider new shifts in your business. Eat. Drink. Be merry.
What happens when I arrive at Lafayette?
We'll greet you at the Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT). We'll be in a light blue Stuller shirt, right next to a Stuller banner, in the baggage claim area. We'll also have a shuttle van waiting to take you to your hotel.
What should I bring?
Come with an open mind, willingness to learn from us and other jewelers, and loads of positive energy, but there's not much else you'll need to bring! We'll even provide the pen and paper, but if you would like to bring a laptop or tablet PC, that's okay, too.
If you bring your camera to Lafayette, don't bring it to Stuller. Photos are not allowed in our factory.
You can bring a mobile phone to remain connected to your family and your store. If the phone has a camera, it's allowed while you respect our no-photo policy.
What should I wear?
We recommend you dress how you present yourself in your store each day – less your jewelry showpieces. Watches and wedding bands are the only jewelry pieces allowed to be worn by employees and guests alike. Please wear comfy shoes – our plant is one-third of a mile long, and you'll want to see it all! Also, consider a light jacket or sweater if you're cold-natured. Sometimes the classrooms can feel chilly!
What else can I do in Lafayette?
If you choose to extend your stay in Cajun Country, there is live music to experience most nights and always more great local food to appreciate. You may also enjoy seeing where Tabasco is made, visiting one of nine museums, or touring the swamp by foot or by boat. To discover what's here, start with www.LafayetteTravel.com or talk to a Stuller rep for recommendations.
What else can I do at Stuller?
Many of our Bridge events are followed immediately by a three-day CounterSketch Studio class. If you haven't yet been training and want to become a pro, consider extending your stay to a week so you can take the class while you're in town. Check the CounterSketch class dates.
We can also arrange laser training classes per your request. Call our Tools Customer Service team at (800) 877-7777, ext. 4300.
If you are interested in meeting with a particular department in greater detail while you're here at Bridge, let us know while you're here, and we'll set up a meeting for you after the Bridge program concludes on day three.
How do I get more information about Bridge?
With any questions, please call Crystal, Jessica or Ryan in the Premier Services department at (866) 751-5692.