Recently, we had the incredible opportunity to represent South African design at Shoppe Object, one of the world's most prestigious trade shows. Thanks to the support of the Craft and Design Institute (CDI) in Cape Town, and funding from the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC), we were part of a select group of twelve South African businesses showcasing our work in the South African Pavilion.
"The journey to get there was no small feat—endless paperwork, securing the right licenses, and ensuring we met all the criteria—but it was all worth it. We were honoured to be chosen and to connect with other passionate designers and buyers from around the globe" says Jessika, founder and owner of Dyad.
In this Q&A, Jess shares her experiences at Shoppe Object, from the inspiring connections made to the trends that caught her eye, and how this experience will shape Dyad’s future. Read on to dive into her insights and takeaways from this unforgettable event.
What was the most memorable part of your time at Shoppe Object?
I think for me the most memorable part was the connection and conversations with obviously buyers but also the connections you make with other brand owners are so special. Everyone is in a similar boat and even though we’re all from different places and countries there’s something that connects us all, being entrepreneurs, that’s universal
How did the atmosphere at Shoppe Object differ from other trade shows you’ve attended?
I haven’t done many before so I have not much to compare to, but I can say that it was a really wonderful atmosphere that felt very positive and supportive. Everyone from the Shoppe Object team was very friendly and helpful which made the show easy and well organized. Everyone participating in the show is generally excited to be there and that is very infectious.
Were there any emerging trends or innovations that particularly caught your eye?
Hmm there was such a large variety of brands and of products that it’s hard to say. I think generally sustainability is a big key point but that’s not new. I just loved seeing so many brands focusing on craftsmanship and handmade products which is very inspiring.
How did attending Shoppe Object influence your perspective on the retail and design industry, specifically wholesale?
I don’t think it particularly changed my perspective but wholesale is a great option to diversify your income stream as a business and a great way to reach a bigger audience. Reaching new customers by being in beautifully curated shops and next to other amazing designers is the great bonus of wholesale.
What brands or products stood out to you during the event, and why?
House of Nunu - Their colourful glassware is just so in line with Dyad’s aesthetic that I would have loved to buy everything
Cerio - Designer from Chile. Super lovely person with beautifully designed homeware.
Zurita - Also from Chile with beautifully woven Alpaca woolen pieces. Connected with the designer Gabriella who’s just wonderful.
Moio - Mother & Daughter duo doing work in Zimbabwe. Making super cute beaded bracelets in Zimbabwe.
Thuli - I befriended the designer and owner. There were many beautiful pieces in her collection that I loved.
How did the New York setting enhance your experience at Shoppe Object?
I’ve never been to New York before and it was a big bucket list moment to get to visit the city and combine it with a business purpose. Even after the day ended at the show, we did a lot of sightseeing and walking around. New York is a super busy and ambitious city, it’s easy to be inspired by that energy and think bigger for yourself and the brand.
Did you have any key takeaways or insights from conversations with other attendees or exhibitors?
The key takeaway for me was that the world is not as big as you might think. Connecting with so many other designers from around the world was so special. Problems and struggles are the same or very similar everywhere and we have more in common than what divides us.
How did Shoppe Object align with Dyad’s brand ethos, and did you discover any potential collaborations?
It definitely aligned in the sense that it created a sense of community and connectedness for everyone involved. No collaborations yet but we will see what comes from it.
Were there any surprises or challenges you encountered during the event?
No challenges really but you have to do your homework before the event so that you’re prepared for questions and queries. What was a surprise is that buyers/shop owners are a lot more decisive than I’m used to and are ready to order there and then versus South Africans who generally need more time.
How do you plan to incorporate what you learned or experienced at Shoppe Object into Dyad’s future collections or strategies?
It just confirmed that I’m on the right track so I will continue to trust my intuition and keep going with what I’m doing. Not sure yet how the show will influence future collections but that will transpire at a later stage.
Most importantly, which cool stores, and places will you now be stocking?
There are a few still up in the air but we will definitely supply the Getty Museum Store in LA and the shop Michele Varian in Brooklyn, New York and Therapy Stores in the Bay Area.
