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Solvar
 

Founded in 1941 when founder Gustaf (Nicky) Obernik visited Killarney's Gap of Dunloe and was inspired to design Irish jewellery reflecting Ireland’s rich heritage.

He established his business at No. 10 Harcourt Street, Dublin, with just two employees, quickly becoming known for Celtic-inspired pieces. Gustaf was among the first to create brooches from Connemara Marble, unique to Ireland.

In the 1960s, his sons Tony and Nicky joined the company, expanding its reach. Today, his grandson Marcus, who joined in 2002, serves as creative director, continuing the family legacy.

Solvar Trade shows
 

Solvar participates in various trade shows across Ireland and Europe. The most significant event for both businesses is Showcase Ireland, held at the RDS in Dublin, where we have the opportunity to present our latest collections and meet with regular and new customers.
 
I am deeply involved in the planning and coordination of graphics for Showcase Ireland. We collaborate with an external company, Exhibit, which handles the printing and installation of our stand. Planning begins two months prior, focusing on the stand's layout and visual impact. In my second year, I evaluated past successes and areas for improvement. My key responsibilities include liaising with Exhibit on design mock ups, choosing flooring, wall colors, lighting, and jewellry display setups.
I also design and print supporting graphics and Point of Sale materials for both new and existing stand concepts.


In my first year with the company, we had several new stands that we were eager to showcase to customers. With a tight deadline, I was entrusted with overseeing the designs. Despite the challenge of being new to the company, the stands were completed on time and met our high expectations. They were well-received by our B2B customers and proved to be highly functional and easy to shop. 

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Solvar Magazine Advertisments
 

Every year, Solvar advertises in various magazines to promote its brand and products. Two examples include Weir & Sons and Spirit of Ireland, where Solvar showcases its unique, Irish-inspired jewellery collections to reach a wider audience and strengthen its presence in the market. 

Solvar Handbook
 

A company handbook is essential for clearly communicating policies, ensuring consistent treatment of employees, and providing legal protection. It serves as a reference for employees, aids in on boarding, and helps build a positive workplace culture.
 
After the pandemic, there was a significant shift in how companies operated, and Solvar & NJO were no exception. With new policies on sick leave and flexible working, including remote work options, it became crucial to ensure all employees were informed. The company handbook needed an update, and I was entrusted with the task. I saw this as an opportunity to not only revise the policies but also apply my typography and layout skills to enhance the handbook’s overall design and readability. 

Solvar Instagram Posts
 

Solvar uses Instagram to effectively showcase its visually stunning jewellery, leveraging the platform’s focus on high-quality images to highlight the artistry of its designs. By building brand awareness and engaging with followers through comments, likes, and direct messages, Solvar fosters a strong community around its brand.
 
Our Instagram is primarily curated by our marketing assistant, but I handle specific posts that require a strong Solvar branding. 

Solvar Design
 

Solvar Design creates bespoke jewellery packaging & stands for customers worldwide. Ranging from The Guinness Store House in Dublin to the CN Tower in Toronto. 
 
These projects are among my favorites. They offer a fantastic opportunity to work on diverse branding challenges for other companies. Whether clients have a clear vision or provide broad briefs, I find it exciting and rewarding to see the complete package—encompassing packaging, product, and stands—come together. 

Solvar Point of Sale
 

A key aspect of my work for Solvar is designing impactful Point of Sale (POS) materials.

A significant part of my role involves designing Point of Sale (POS) materials for Solvar . Since Solvar operates as both a B2B and B2C company, I create POS and marketing materials that not only align with NJO's branding but are also tailored to the branding guidelines of our partner businesses. 
 

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