VM Spotlight from The British Display Society

Technological University Dublin Creative Arts Department Course: Visual Merchandising & Display Student: Sarah Geraghty Tell us what attracted you to VM and why you decided to enrol in a VM course?

I think there’s something about the challenge of drawing a customer in, can I make this person buy this product? Even if its hideous? I was initially drawn towards fine art but after researching courses in VM, I immediately fell in love. Although they are very different fields of study, I am focused on finding a way to incorporate aspects of both and I’d like to think my work stands out by doing so. I love styling myself, so I thought why not make a career out of styling a brands product!

Digital marketing can be seen as being increasingly more important than traditional visual merchandising.

Do you find VM to be still relevant to the future of retail?

Online shopping is becoming increasingly more convenient, but it doesn’t compare to the experience of shopping in real life. The atmosphere of shopping in store is so important, we don’t get that same experience online. This is what we as VMs have to consider, especially during these strange times where consumers have opted to online shopping as the go to. The future of retail is in our hands more so now than ever.

Now that your coming to the end of your studies, what did you find the most valuable to learn regarding VM? Something you will always remember and want to share with others.

As I’m only finishing my first year of my Visual Merchandising degree, I still have a whole lot to learn.

I definitely gained a better relationship regarding group work though this year. Being in a “I only work well alone” mentality as a VM doesn’t work well. Working in a team has so many benefits and sharing different ideas and creative mindsets can make something so beautiful. I think bouncing ideas off each other and adding touches to someone else’s idea works better than being intransigent in these situations.

What are your plans after graduating and how would you like to use your VM skills?

I’m so excited for my journey after college but really think I’m going to miss it. I’d love to be a photo shoot stylist or work in designing exhibitions. I have so much ahead of me that I’m excited for.

Please tell us a bit about a project What was the brief for this project?

‘You will research current and coming colour trends for Spring/Summer 2020 using trend forecasting websites WGSN and Pantone. Using this research and further research on lighting you will design and make a light/lamp. This 3D piece will be showcased in a homeware window, using complimentary homeware products. The target market is a young couple starting out in their first apartment. They like contemporary styling and are very image conscious.’