My name is Minke van Dijk and I am 20 years old. I have been working at TICA since November 2022, and you can usually find me at the Aalsmeer location. I have various roles within TICA. I work at the Atrium (the epicenter of this location), focus on exhibitor services, and occasionally work a day at the Coffee Corner.
After obtaining my diploma in Fashion Management from the Jan Des Bouvrie College last year, I started looking for an exciting new job. I was already familiar with TICA as I had visited before. I decided to check the vacancies on the website. Initially, I applied for the position of Cashier. During the job interviews, we thoroughly discussed what I enjoy doing, which activities at TICA could use an additional colleague, and how we could be the best match for each other. Along the way, we mutually decided that my role would be broader, which I’m really enjoying so far.
What I enjoy most about my job at TICA is the creative aspect. This includes styling the stands of various exhibitors and developing new ideas to make the stands even more attractive. Ultimately, the goal is for TICA members to make purchases through an inviting stand. Additionally, I occasionally work at the Coffee Corner, which I also really enjoy because I have a lot of interaction with TICA members.

The Look, Feel Buying Days! These days are always very busy and enjoyable. TICA members, exhibitors, and colleagues meet each other, and there’s plenty to do; workshops, tastings, and lots of new collections. Elisa, the Event Marketer at TICA, asked me to give a tufting demonstration during one of the recent editions. Tufting involves using a tufting gun that shoots yarn onto canvas with each ‘shot’. What I also find amusing is that we’re already decorating the Christmas tree in July. Both locations in Aalsmeer and Venlo are transformed into a ‘winter wonderland’. Christmas trees and nutcrackers everywhere, while everyone outside is at the beach. Very funny!
Of course, every day I come into contact with many, very many brands. It’s difficult to choose from them. Additionally, the brand offerings change monthly. My favorite brands at TICA at the moment are: A-Journal, Broste, Kersten, Sisi House of Style, and the books from Kitchen Trend.
When asked this question, the black and white striped pattern (which can be found throughout the building) immediately comes to mind. What I also find typical of TICA are the trends that vary throughout the year. This keeps it surprising and engaging for TICA members! The atmosphere within the team is also ‘Typically TICA’ for me. It’s always pleasant with a great atmosphere.