69 PG LIVE wonderful industry, from the established players as well as those just starting out. The introduction of the entry level Springboard element last year proved a great solution for those taking their first tentative steps into trade shows and so we are looking forward to further building on this again this year.” Design showcase The Springboard section is located adjacent to the main Upper Village area, enabling publishers who are new to exhibiting to show their designs and introduce themselves and their company among kindred spirits. Each Springboard exhibitor will be given a clothed 6’ x 2.5’ table and chair, together with a company sign. As ever, all visitors and exhibitors will enjoy the show’s hospitality, including free lunch and refreshments and opening night party. SHOW ESSENTIALS SHOW DATES: Tuesday 4 and Wednesday 5 June 2024 WHERE: Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 0QH OPENING HOURS: 9.30am-6.00pm (with a free opening night party onsite until 7.45pm) on Tuesday 4 June 9.30am-4.30pm on Wednesday 5 June ADMISSION: Entry to the show is free to retailers, distributors, wholesalers, retail sales agents, licensors, international visitors and all those wishing to buy products or licence designs from exhibitors. Others, such as trade suppliers, service providers, artists and designers do not qualify for free entry, but if interested in the possibility of exhibiting in the future are very welcome to join one of the show’s accompanied tours to find out more! REGISTRATION: Via the show website (www.progressivegreetingslive.com) or by calling +44 (0) 7734 111633 SHOW ORGANISERS: Max Exhibitions, United House, North Road, London, N7 9DP Telephone: +44 (0)207 700 6740 Email: info@progressivegreetingslive.com Website: www.progressivegreetingslive.com Twitter: @PGLiveLondon Instagram: @PGLiveLondon Springboard Newbies Among the most recent to have joined the Springboard line up include Feather.ink, Kirsty Todd Illustration, Studio Frew and Versed-Aid. Here they share why they have joined the PG Live gang. Charlotte Frew Brown, founder of Studio Frew said: “As an emerging greeting card illustrator with a small number of stockists, I have been looking to take the next step with my business and broaden my audience. I visited an event last summer and was recommended to book a Springboard table by the designers I had the pleasure of meeting there. I heard nothing but glowing reviews about PG Live, and heard unanimously that it’s the best event at which to start out. I hope to reach some new and larger customers when I’m there, however first and foremost make people smile with my range of punny cards.” Michelle Jones, founder of Versed-Aid said: “As a newcomer to the industry with a modest range of design , I did not have the confidence to commit to a stand in the Upper Village section of PG Live. The conception of the Springboard area enabled me to take the plunge into trade show life sooner than I would have otherwise. The opportunity to network, learn more about the industry and receive immediate feedback from seasoned buyers on my work – all for a modest financial outlay – is an absolute no-brainer. I know the experience will be a valuable investment in my business and I’m really looking forward to it.” Kirsty Todd, Founder of Kirsty Todd Illustration said: “As an illustrator I have tinkered around the edges of greeting cards for a couple of years, but did not understand how the industry works or how to get noticed. I went to an In-Press seminar introduction day at The Imaging Centre and was inspired. The team there carefully took us through each step of the card production process. And after this I decided to dive in with more commitment. I am now brimming with ideas and cannot wait to start my journey at Progressive Greetings Live 2024 in the Springboard area.” Joanne Vitiv, founder of Feather.ink said: “Feather.ink has been ‘a something’ for three years now. I picked up a paintbrush for the first time since A levels at school and decided to paint my godson his first birthday card. This is where my animal alphabet was born, and was the first project of feather.ink. The animal alphabet is still my favourite project three years later. From here I started taking orders. I had some amazing commissions which is where many of my ideas came to life…from the map of adventures, to illustrated recipes. I love working direct to consumer, however it is time to grow feather. ink to new levels. Last May I did my first ever trade show and while it was a leap, I loved it and it is fair to say I have caught the trade show bug which is easy to catch!! I am so excited to complete my ranges just a little bit more in preparation and launch some amazing new products at PG Live, get my products out to a wider audience again and to meet some new people and. Bring it on.”
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