Since 1992, Gift for Life has united the gift and home industries for common good. Together, we have raised more than $6 million—first to fight HIV/AIDS and now to support crisis-related hunger relief via World Central Kitchen.
DISCOVER YOUR NEW BESTSELLER EXPLORE
We’ve got a Texas-sized array of new product that you won’t see anywhere else!
JUNE 19-25, 2024 TEMPS JUNE 19 - 22
Inspiration around every corner, including new showrooms & tempting TEMPS with unique finds in 5 neighborhoods.
Anabel Aram Jewelry at William Lamont | TM 2400
Discover all 24 retail finalists for the 73rd Retailer Excellence Awards, including the new Home Decor Store category, along with nominees for top sales rep and manufacturer of the year.
Whether it's due to nostalgia or something more, many adults these days are more kid at heart, which is why stores and toy brands are targeting the growing segment of playful consumers.
Whether consumers are looking to moisturize and protect their skin or dress up with a touch of makeup, these face products are perfect to stock for all levels of beauty lovers.
The second-leading holiday for consumer purchases, Halloween is fast approaching. Stock up on all things spooky, scary and wickedly fun for the fall holiday.
Gearing up for the busy summer market season? We've helped give you a jumpstart on what to scout out as you travel around to Dallas, Atlanta, Las Vegas and New York.
EDITOR IN CHIEF Lenise Willis 336.605.3817 | lwillis@giftsanddec.com
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Pamela Brill, Spencer Musick, Carol Schroeder, Warren Shoulberg
RESEARCH EDITOR Joanne Friedrick
SENIOR GROUP PUBLISHER, EVP CREATIVE SERVICES Liz Irwin
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF SALES Donna Bischoff | dbischoff@furnituretoday.com
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER, MIDWEST AND CANADA Garry P. Grenier | 224.558.9996 | ggrenier@giftsanddec.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE, WEST COAST AND EAST COAST Betsy Malito | 925.998.6706 | bmalito@giftsanddec.com HONG KONG, INDONESIA, KOREA, MALAYASIA Quentin Chan | 852.2366.1106 PHILIPPINES, SINGAPORE, TAIWAN, THAILAND fax 852.2366.1107 | quentinchan@leadingm.com INDIA Kaushal Shah | +91 22 2305 9305 | kaushal@kaushals.com
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Bill McLoughlin
PRODUCTION SPECIALIST John Reno | jreno@bridgetowermedia.com
DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Ariel Perez
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL OPERATIONS Chris Schultz
DIRECTOR OF AD OPERATIONS Dan Sage
DIGITAL OPERATIONS MANAGER Randy Melton
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND CREATIVE SERVICES Melanie Bingham
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER John Coughlan
Support Your Reps
Recently my good friend Angela Schmook at Road Runners and I were talking about how pivotal sales reps are to our industry and how we wish we could shout it from the rooftops how important it is to support them. While the #shoplocal initiative has been gaining momentum — and quite honestly, flourishing — the idea of using a local rep hasn’t become as catchy.
As Schmook wisely said in our phone call: “Sales reps are local, too.” And we should be supporting them with as much vigor as we support the local indie retailer.
As we can obviously tell from our 15 Retailer Excellence Awards (REA) finalists for the regional Sales Representative of the Year awards, a good sales rep can be a pivotal business partner for independent retailers — if they have enough support to afford to go the extra mile, literally, to your store.
Sales reps rely on commission to not only make ends meet, but to afford the gas and mileage to travel to their client’s stores. It’s a tricky situation as some retailers cut out their rep because they don’t feel they’re as invested, but the rep can’t afford to be invested if they’re being cut out. If you demand greatness from your reps, as you should, then you need to ensure they can afford to be so amazing by placing your orders through them.
New online platforms and the popularity of buying wholesale online is threatening the profession of sales reps. Just as retailers are competing with Amazon, Shein, Temu and a zillion other e-commerce stores, sales reps are competing with Faire and direct-purchase sites that most often don’t relay a commission.
“A good sales rep can be a pivotal business partner for independent retailers — if they have enough support to afford to go the extra mile, literally, to your store.”
website
I get it. We’re all busy and no one is strapped for time more than a shop owner. Buying online is often faster and easier. But at what cost? If the ease of shopping online phases out this hard-working segment of our industry, retailers will lose a potential business partner. Just read through the REA profiles — one sales rep literally worked at the store for weeks during the holiday season to fill the gap left by an employee in the intensive care unit!
Many retailers don’t even know that they’re cutting their rep out. Some retailers think they’re doing their rep a favor, saving them time, by placing the order directly. But that’s not always the case. It depends on each vendor’s policy, but some don’t give the local rep the commission if they aren’t the one to directly hand in the order.
When I read the nomination submissions for REA and heard several amazing stories of sales reps going above and beyond, I felt incredibly moved to support them and let our readers know that they need your help. They need your orders directly. Otherwise, this pivotal model to our industry might just become a dinosaur. And if there comes a time when we need them in the future, like, let’s say a BrandwiseMarketTime outage shutting down vendors’ ordering platforms for days, they might not be there to bail you out.
Lenise Willis
Editor in Chief
‘Unauthorized Actor’ Access Leads to Dayslong Outage for MarketTime
Brandwise taking steps to shore-up security and prevent future outages.
by Lenise Willis
Near the end of April and early May, several vendors and sales reps groups in the gift and home industry reported an outage of their wholesale sales platforms powered by MarketTime; the cause was later identified as an “unauthorized actor” gaining access to the Brandwise network, resulting in the platform going offline.
In an email shared with Gifts & Decorative Accessories on May 3, MarketTime noted that once it became aware of the problem, it shut down the system, engaged independent experts, implemented advanced monitoring systems and took comprehensive risk-mitigating measures.
According to Don McCoy, president of Core Elements, a showroom technology provider, there hasn’t been an outage of this scope in his 12 years of experience in the industry, and the consequences likely were felt deeply by many professionals.
“This widespread outage is impacting the entire wholesale channel, from sales ordering to fulfillment to retailers receiving orders,” he said in May.
To exemplify the scope of the impact of the outage, McCoy pointed out that without the ability to sync, sales reps were not obtaining new vendor product additions and/or changes to existing product; new sales reps or existing sales reps were unable to obtain a full product and customer data sync on a sales device; vendors were unable to receive new or updated orders; and likely retailers would be receiving orders later than expected.
Brandwise reassured its users within a week of the reported outage with a detailed message of what happened and what the company is doing to ensure an outage of this scope doesn't happen again.
The email, a copy of which was posted to the Brandwise Users Community Facebook page, said:
"We took steps to bolster the security of our environment, including by implementing additional cybersecurity monitoring systems across all elements of our network to detect and help prevent any similar incident from occurring in the future.
"We appreciate your patience and we deeply apologize for the challenges that this system outage has caused. We want to assure you that we are fully committed to rebuilding your trust through our communication and actions. Our investigation is ongoing, and we will share additional information as appropriate. Please see below for an overview.
What happened: MarketTime experienced a network disruption emanating from our Brandwise data center involving an unathorized actor gaining access to the Brandwise network. What action did MarketTime take? We took immediate action to help safeguard your data and the integrity of our systems.
System shutdown: We took all systems offline to prevent any potential data loss. Out of an abundance of caution, this included the MarketTime environment, which is fully hosted in Amazon Web Services.
Engagement of independent experts: We partnered with independent cybersecurity experts to assist in securing our environment and conducting a thorough investigation.
Implementation of advanced monitoring systems: We took steps to bolster the security of our environment, including by implementing additional cybersecurity monitoring systems across all elements of our network to detect and help prevent any similar incident from occurring in the future.
Comprehensive risk mitigation measures: Additional comprehensive steps were taken to eliminate risks.
Why did it take more time to bring the Brandwise platform online than the MarketTime platform? The MarketTime platform is fully hosted in Amazon Web Services, with a modern network architecture. The Brandwise platform depends on a large set of servers, located in a data center, complemented by cloud infrastructure."
Brandwise tools that were affected by the outage included Play for PC, mtPlay, e.brandwise, Content Manager, Stream, Reach 1.0, Vision, Passport, Transit, Reach 2.0 and hosted server environments.
Model is wearing Cortez Neck Hanging
Andmore Names New CEO, Maricich Transitions to New Role
Andmore announced the appointment of Jonathan "Jon” Pertchik as the company's new CEO and the promotion of Dorothy Belshaw to president.
Pertchik succeeds Bob Maricich, who founded Andmore (formerly International Market Centers) in 2011. Maricich will now assume the role of executive chairman of the board to ensure a seamless transition.
“I am pleased to welcome Jon to the Andmore team and am confident we have found the right leader for the future of our great company,” said Maricich. “Jon is a seasoned executive closely aligned with our company’s core values and our unwavering focus on putting the customer first. It has been a tremendous privilege to build and lead this business over the last 13 years, and I look forward to working alongside Jon, Dorothy and the rest of the team in my new role as executive chairman.”
“It is a great honor to succeed Bob and to partner with the talented Andmore team to continue building on the important mission to offer more for customers every day,” said Pertchik. “Bob and the team have done an incredible job growing a differentiated business, dedicated to partnering with wholesale buyers and sellers to help them grow and prosper, and I look forward to leading Andmore into its next chapter.”
Pertchik joins Andmore with more than 20 years of leadership experience across the real estate, hospitality and finance industries. Most recently, he served as CEO of TravelCenters of America (TCA), a Fortune 500 company, where he led the organization through a period of growth and transformation ultimately earning recognition as one of Newsweek’s “Most Trustworthy” large travel and leisure companies. Prior to his role at TCA, Pertchik served as CEO of InTown Suites/Uptown Suites as well as ST Residential, and held leadership roles at WCI Communities and The Staubach Co.
He holds a master's degree in laws from Georgetown University Law Center, a juris doctorate from the University of the District of Columbia, and a bachelor's degree from Rutgers University. He is on the board of directors of Nikola Corp. and has sat on the Boards of Lenkbar and AV Homes.
Pertchik will make his permanent office in Atlanta, while also setting up offices in Las Vegas and High Point.
Andmore also announced the promotion of Dorothy Belshaw to president. Belshaw has 32 years of experience in the wholesale marketplace industry, including 12 years with Andmore holding positions as chief revenue officer, chief marketing officer, and most recently, chief growth officer. Belshaw is also the recipient of Gift for Life's 2024 Industry Achievement Award.
DMC Names New Senior VP of Retail Development, Market Services
Dallas Market Center veteran Amy Harper has been promoted to senior vice president of retail development and market services.
Responsible for the strategic buyer delivery initiatives for Dallas Market Center including retail development, major stores and private buys, Harper reports to Karen Ryder, chief operating officer. Harper is also responsible for market services including registration and market travel.
“Amy is amazing at what she does because she considers herself a partner for retailers to help make their market experience successful,” said Ryder. “She has worked tirelessly to grow our attendance by quantity and quality from coast to coast and internationally. Whether it’s a single location retailer or a 70-door enterprise, she goes the extra mile to help. She is also a tremendous team leader who has the respect of our associates because she leads with heart.”
Harper has been with the center since 2001, managing an increasing number of responsibilities to help drive buyer traffic
to Dallas beginning with apparel and accessories, international and then assuming leadership for all industries.
“I’m thrilled to continue to serve our customers, and I love what I do because it makes such a difference for buyers,” said Harper.
“Now more than ever retailers and designers want a market experience that maximizes their time and investment, is inspiring and safe. They need to get more done, accomplish it with ease, and feel the personal connection of support. Our team is always focused on those goals.”
In addition to her leadership positions with Dallas Market Center, Harper has served in a variety of roles with other professional organizations.
For Fashion Group International of Dallas, she worked as regional director and is currently president of the Fashion Group Foundation. She also currently serves as a board member for Attitudes and Attire, a non-profit supporting women’s job readiness and self-esteem.
Studio M Sticking Around Thanks to Demdaco
After news of their impending closure broke in February, the Studio M brand is getting a second life. Demdaco announced the purchase of the 35-year-old outdoor décor and gift company.
“We could not ask for a better company than Demdaco to inherit the legacy of Studio M. We know the future of our product lines is in great hands.”
— Curt Todd, Studio M co-founder
Demdaco plans to begin manufacturing and distribution of the Studio M products later this year. The company said it plans to build on the legacy already in place while introducing new designs and formats.
“We at Demdaco were drawn to Studio M because of their delightful, highquality products, and the potential to propel this well-known brand to new heights,” said Demi Lloyd, co-founder of Demdaco. “I am grateful
to Curt, Sue and Mike Todd for entrusting their brand to us.”
Studio M announced via email back in February that it would close in April. Officials cited financial hardships, further intensified by the the pandemic, as the key reason for closing.
"It has been incredibly difficult to say goodbye to this company and to the industry we have been a part of for so long, but we’ve reached a point where we cannot continue,” said Studio M Co-founder and then-CEO Curt in the original email. “It’s not common for companies to last 35 years, and it’s particularly rare in the highly creative and dynamic gift and home industry. We are proud of what we have accomplished and the impact we have made on both the industry and our community of artists, employees, retailers, customers and vendor partners.”
Now, the designs and artwork consumers have come to love from Studio M will live on under the Demdaco umbrella.
“Because we have always admired their values and creativity,” Curt said, “we could not ask for a better company than Demdaco to inherit the legacy of Studio M. We know the future of our product lines is in great hands.”
DMC to Break Personal Best Records for Showroom Expansions
A record number of expanding gift and home showrooms are set to debut at the upcoming Total Home & Gift Market.
Set to run June 19-25 at Dallas Market Center, the first market of the summer season in the U.S. will include expanded exhibitors across the marketplace.
“This summer we are celebrating a record number of expansions by top showrooms deepening their Dallas investment following a year of debuting new, flagship showrooms,” said Cindy Morris, president and CEO of Dallas Market Center. “We’re thrilled that these companies are strengthening their Dallas ties and welcoming more buyers to our marketplace. As companies seek a superior and safe location for year-round business, Dallas wins every time.”
Among the expansion highlights are:
• Multi-line gift showroom Road Runners, Trade Mart (TM) 1743 and TM 1521, has added space for new collections and to better serve new and loyal customers.
• Representing more than 100 brands, Anne McGilvray & Co, WTC 270, which debuted in January, is expanding for
June to create a more seamless showroom experience.
• Daniel Richards and their collection of brands in gift and stationery, relocating and debuting an expanded new showroom in TM 2301.
• K&K Interiors, which already has a large presence in the WTC, is expanding into adjacent IHDC space in IHDC 2F444 and 2F440 in order to present a broader selection of home furnishings and accents, floral and seasonal, jewelry and fashion.
• Gourmet Specialties & More, a recent addition to the TM, is expanding to occupy TM 2242 and TM 2232 in order to present more brands in gourmet.
Expansions previously announced include the January debut of flagship showrooms from OneCoast, an expanded new showroom for Visual Comfort and Primitives by Kathy, and the expansion of Ivystone.
In addition to the Total Home & Gift Market, Dallas Market Center attendees can also explore Lightovation this summer, open June 19-22.
Atlanta Market Expands Gift Sourcing Opportunities
Buyers attending Atlanta Market this summer will have the opportunity to shop for innovative gifts like never before at AmericasMart Atlanta.
The Summer 2024 edition — running July 16-22 — will offer up both new and expanded exhibitors in its collection of more than 700 sales agencies and branded showrooms. Gift sourcing will be available across 19 floors throughout Buildings 1, 2 and 3 with everything from general gift to specialized gift including tabletop, housewares, gourmet, seasonal and more.
“Atlanta Market prides itself on providing access to the best gift brands, spanning a broad range of category offerings,” said Dorothy Belshaw, Andmore president. “With these updates, we leverage the largest supply of gift sourcing in the nation while promoting the new and next of the industry.”
In the gift segment of the market, eight new showrooms are set to debut: Accents de Ville (home and seasonal décor); Made In (cookware); Mahogany (tabletop); Mills Gourmet (handcrafted gourmet food and spices); Orstar Industrial Co. (LED and string lights); Pampa Bay (kitchen accessories and dinnerware);
Rosanne Beck Collections (stationery); and Kimberly Wahlberg, an agency representing 17 brands.
C. Rosse & Associates, an agency with 21 brands under its umbrella, and Zaer, a garden and wall décor company, will also be debuting freshly expanded showrooms.
Several exhibitors have recently announced their recommitment to Atlanta Market.
Across Building 2, more than 15 brands have declared renewals, including: Briarwood Lane (home and garden décor); Delectable Offerings (fine chocolates and novelty confections); Evergreen (home and garden décor); Fieldstone (agency representing 16 brands); Hester & Cook (home and tabletop gifts); MCcc Sportswear (men’s and women’s fashion); Reliant Ribbon (decorative ribbon); Spartina 449 (jewelry and handbags); Spokandy Chocolatier (gourmet truffles); Sweet Shop Candies (handmade gourmet truffles and chocolates); The Royal Standard (home, fashion and holiday gifts); and Three Kings Gifts (Christmas collectibles).
A full list of exhibitors can be found online.
SHARP IDEAS, BRIGHT NOTES
Having had the opportunity to engage with the team at Auspi Group , I have been consistently impressed by their professionalism, expertise, and data-driven approach . Auspi Group exhibits deep knowledge and proficiency in all aspects of freight, allowing them to provide us with a comprehensive approach to combat our rising shipping costs. We could not have done this on our own and are happy to partner with them .
— Janice Dayon Christensen President of nora fleming
Road Runners, Boutique Hub Team Up
Road Runners LLC, a sales agency representing brands within the specialty retail market, is using its expertise as a rep agency to help spread the word about the valuable resources available on the Boutique Hub and connect its retailers to the community and its offerings.
The unique partnership was announced by Road Runners on April 25, writing in a release that it was "in an effort to provide specialty retailers with greater access to the education, networking, events and wholesale shopping offered by the one-of-a-kind platform."
A notable community in the fashion and apparel space, the Boutique Hub is one of the largest professional organizations of businesses in the retail industry. The Boutique Hub's network of boutique owners and wholesale brands prioritize community and collaboration over competition in an effort to make the retail industry stronger, offering connection with like-minded professionals regardless of boutique size, offering education, expert advice and strategy to help owners grow their individual businesses.
“We’re not just navigating the roads; we’re paving the way for a new era of business.”
— Angela Schmook, Road Runners o
“Road Runners LLC is thrilled to announce our partnership with the Boutique Hub, a dynamic platform uniting gift, home, and apparel boutique owners alike,” said Angela Schmook, Road Runners's vice president of marketing and operations. “Together, we’re not just navigating the roads; we’re paving the way for a new era of business. This collaboration signifies our commitment to empowering boutique owners, enhancing customer experiences and driving innovation in the specialty retail industry.”
The Boutique Hub was founded by North Dakota native Ashley Alderson in 2013 after she struggled to find quality shopping within 300 miles of her home and wanted to develop an online marketplace to shop all her favorite boutiques regardless of distance. Her background in business, marketing and economic development helped turn her dream into a reality, which she took several steps further by adding training, networking, live events and wholesale shopping to the community of boutique owners. Today, The Boutique Hub serves as a central connection point for the entire retail industry, with a robust membership that thrives in the community Alderson has created.
“The Boutique Hub is a place where the entire industry can come together and support one another for the sake of business growth and success,” said Alderson. “We’re incredibly excited about our new partnership with Road Runners LLC and confident our community will offer specialty retailers a unique mix of new connections, masterclasses and professional insight to inspire them in their business ventures. There is no competition here — just a community of professionals with a genuine desire to support one another.”
Retailer and contributing columnist Carol Schroeder wrote an online blog about the Boutique Hub for its 10th anniversary in 2023. Schroeder said of the Hub: "The word sisterhood comes to mind — of shop owners and their employees — mostly women — who come together for inspiration and support. It is also a platform to connect stores to their vendors through Hubventory, a B2B wholesale site for member stores. Its consumer-facing platform, ShopTheBestBoutiques.com, helps shopper discover boutiques they will love.
"There are special events for members, including Market Meetups and an annual Boutique Summit in June, and a free newsletter, blog and podcast. There is also an annual #BoutiqueBoss Planner ... [and a] nationwide event called Pink Friday that they coordinate in November, one week before Black Friday."
THE ULTIMATE GIVEAWAY
Las Vegas Readies Packed Temporaries with New, Returning Brands
As buyers prepare to shop summer market season, Andmore has announced a new round of updates for Las Vegas Market’s Temporaries. For the Summer 2024 edition, buyers will be able to shop both new and returning brands, with nearly 400 set to exhibit across six categories.
“Las Vegas is a guaranteed opportunity to discover key products that diversify and revitalize merchandise mixes across categories,” said Dorothy Belshaw, Andmore president. “Six categories across the temporary exhibits give buyers from every corner of the industry a sneak peek into the new and now of gift and home goods.”
Buyers at World Market Center Las Vegas this summer will have the opportunity to see several brands returning after a brief hiatus, along with some appearing for the first time. Current confirmed new and returning notable exhibitors include:
• Ameico (lighting and stationery)
• Chukar Cherries (dried fruits and chocolates)
• Eastern Elm (décor, art, tea and tableware)
• Kader Boly Art (West African art)
• Klean Kanteen (stainless steel water bottles, tumblers and mugs)
• Little Amigos South America (blankets, throws, apparel and home décor made in Ecuador)
• Macherelle (handcrafted art and design from France, Germany and Sweden)
• Melissa & Doug (wooden toys)
• Mixologie (custom perfume)
• Modernplum (textile design and luxury linens)
• Redemption Road Coffee (coffee beans)
• South Trip Gallery (Chilean art gallery)
• Vondels (high-end Christmas ornaments)
These exhibitors will be throughout the six categories in the Temporaries: Design, Gift, Handmade, Home, Luxe and Immediate Delivery. A full list of exhibitors can be found online. Las Vegas Market runs July 28-Aug. 1.
Las Vegas Market will deliver keynote speakers, product displays, influencer programs and amenities over four days to round out the market’s offerings.
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unwrap the industry's best-selling wearables & stocking stuffers
Faire Launches New 'Academy' to Help New Retailers
Online wholesale marketplace Faire is taking its goal to “help brand and retailers navigate the challenges that come with running their dream business” to the next level, announcing the start of Open with Faire Academy, a retailer’s free online learning guide to opening a new store.
Built with input from dozens of Faire retailers, Open with Faire Academy aims to be a “one-stop resource hub to help up and coming business owners master the fundamentals of opening a retail store,” according to Faire. From creating a business plan, to getting funding, to finding the perfect location, retailers taking part in the academy will have access to on-demand resources for the entire retail journey.
Open with Faire Academy is an expansion of the wholesale marketplace’s broader Open with Faire program, which launched in 2021 with the goal of “ensuring new retail business owners find success on opening day and beyond.” The program provides retailers with financing to purchase the inventory they need for their first year in business. In just three years, Faire has extended more than $100 million in inventory credit to more
than 15,000 new online and brick-and-mortar small business owners across the United States and Europe.
“I’ve used Open with Faire for my last two shop openings, and it could not have been easier," said Mackenzi Farquer, owner of Lockwood, a gift store with seven locations across New York. "Access to traditional capital has become scarce post-pandemic, but Faire makes it so easy to secure some of the funding needed for product purchasing.”
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over the last several years, the number of applications filed to start new businesses has increased at a notable rate, and in 2023 5.5 million new business applications were filed.
“Faire has always believed in the power and resilience of the independent retail community, but the reality is it can be extremely difficult to navigate ... opening a new retail business,” said Ami Vora, chief product officer. “We created the Open with Faire Academy with the goal of giving new business owners access to educational resources and guidance coupled with inventory financing to help them be successful from the get-go.”
“ “The more you know about this target shopper, the better you can adjust your social media and advertising to attract more people like him/her.”
I thought avatars were cartoon versions of yourself you created so you could customize greetings to your friends on social media. But it turns out that a customer avatar refers to the creation of a single-person profile of your target shopper.
SEE MORE PAGE 78
73 rd ANNUAL RETAILER
EXCELLENCE AWARDS
Meet the finalists for GDA’s prestigious awards ceremony.
by GDA Staff
Hosted by Gifts & Decorative Accessories, the 73rd annual Retailer Excellence Awards (REA) recognizes the accomplishments and perseverance of independent retailers across the country, as well as the top sales representatives of the year and the top manufacturers of the year. It is the single biggest event in the gift industry that honors each aspect of our business: hard-working indie retailers, sales reps and vendors. Though the ceremony’s origin has always been about recognizing retail excellence, it has been expanded over the years to include the other two important pillars of our industry. Because without any one of these pillars, our industry would crumble.
Here, we announce and delve into the details of each REA finalist, including 24 retailers who excel across eight niche categories, 15 sales reps across five regions and 10 vendors, as well as Gift for Life’s Industry Achievement Award honoree, Dorothy Belshaw of Andmore. Gift for Life has presented this award at the REA gala for more than a decade.
New this year, GDA collaborated with sister publication Home Accents Today (HAT) to add three finalists for a new award category, Home Décor Store. Nominees were chosen from HAT’s 2024 Retail Stars.
These REA finalists and Gift for Life’s honoree will be celebrated at an in-person cocktail hour and awards ceremony June 19 at Union Station in Dallas, Texas, in conjunction with the Dallas Total Home & Gift Market. Visit retailerexcellenceawards.com for more information about the gala, plus to donate to Gift for Life’s fundraiser in honor of Belshaw.
NOMINEES FOR MULTIPLE LOCATIONS
Magpies Gifts
Magpies Gifts got its start more than 30 years ago when two entrepreneurial sisters took a leap of faith and realized a shared childhood dream. They opened their gift and home store in Houston’s Museum District in 1983 with the help of a small business loan and their husbands. The sisters — Maggie Farrar and Alexis Ofczarzak — started by stocking antiques, quilts and handmade creations, eventually relocating to their current Bellaire, Texas, location to make room for additional product like accessories and home décor before opening a second Magpies Gifts location in Sugar Land, Texas.
The Rustic Market
The Rustic Market — with four locations in Acworth, Marietta and Woodstock, Ga. — and the people behind it pride themselves on their eye for detail and their collective ability to bring “the Rustic Market experience” to each of the store’s locations. Despite every iteration of the Rustic Market being very different in size, venue and, in some cases, offerings, the Rustic Market and its staff are committed to giving each shopper a positive experience they can count on and creating what owner Debbie Strasser describes as a “warm and inviting atmosphere.”
Willow House Boutique
Willow House and its owner, Kerrie Turner, are all about growth, for both its stores and the communities they are located in. Established in 2013 in Celina, Texas, Willow House now boasts four total locations, with additional stores having opened over the last several years in Frisco, The Colony and McKinney, Texas. As the retailer has grown, Turner and her team have doubled down on their commitment to connecting with the North Texas communities in which their stores reside, both through fashion and local humanitarian organizations.
NOMINEES FOR BEST SPECIALTY STORE
Madisonville Christmas
Family traditions are the core of the inspiration at Madisonville Christmas. The homemade gifts and décor of the family matriarch instilled a dream in co-founders Connie Clark and Cathy Stroud. The duo wanted to open a unique place where the Christmas holiday lived year-round with hopes of inspiring future generations to carry on their own holiday traditions. Now they operate under a simple mission: “To make Christmas joy come alive every day; to add a little merry and bright to the ordinary; and to celebrate the traditions of faith, family and friends.”
The Stock Market
Opened on a struggling main street in Shawano, Wis., The Stock Market breathed life into its small town through its gourmet and specialty food offerings. Run by two sisters, the shop offers everything from extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars to local cheeses, organic spices and looseleaf teas. They even offer the latest in trendy home décor. The shop is frequently featured on local news stations for recipe and cooking tips segments, allowing them to stay connected to their community and keep fresh products in the spotlight.
White Farmhouse Flowers
Though White Farmhouse Flowers was started with owner Denise Glanzer’s love of flowers in mind, it has become much more to those who shop there. While offering floral arrangements for all occasions is certainly a good part of the business, Glanzer has added inventory that takes the shop to another level. Day-trip shoppers make a point to stop in for the fun, local merchandise that highlights the historic river town of Parkville, Mo. They also offer an array of classes for customers to learn how to make their own wreaths and other arrangements.
NOMINEES FOR SOCIAL MEDIA AND ONLINE INITIATIVES
Apple Blvd
The team behind Apple Blvd is not shy about going live — they do it at least three times a day during the week! The store, which currently has two locations in Frisco and McKinney, Texas, has become known around the country for its daily, scheduled live sales and vibrant, pretty-in-pink social media presence. During markets, the retailer has even been known to go live while shopping with vendors to give their customers a chance to weigh in on their finds in real time.
Hazel + Dot
Creating connections is the name of the game for Tampa, Fla., retailer Hazel + Dot. With 75 percent of its stock sourced from local makers, the retailer focuses on promoting local events, places and happenings right alongside its merchandise online, championing the people and businesses that make up its community in funny, timely and well-made videos and posts. Hazel + Dot’s owner Allison Bernardi is also praised for her ability to connect personally with her customers through her behind-the-scenes posts about running a small business.
Vickie’s Gifts
If there is a social media site out there, chances are, the folks behind Vickie’s Gifts are already on it. Founded in 1998, the Roscoe, Texas-based retailer — originally started by Vickie Hayes and now run by Hayes’ daughter, Koti Lindsey — prides itself on staying active on everything from Pinterest and YouTube to TikTok and Instagram. Recently, the retailer even got its own app to make shopping its live sales easier! The store’s team goes live daily to show off the day’s new arrivals and create styled apparel collections for customers.
NOMINEES FOR STORE DESIGN
Cheekwood Garden Shop
Cheekwood’s new garden shop in Nashville, Tenn., officially launched in Spring 2023 after five months of planning and construction. The original garden shop was tucked in the back of the Cheekwood property, making it easy to miss by many visitors. Designed with custom floor-to-ceiling shelving and a wall of windows for natural lighting, the new shop now sits at the entrance of the property. Inside, customers can find all-white displays, each meticulously designed, and a 13-foot tulip wall with more than 1,700 tulips as a beautiful focal point behind the cash counter.
Mix It Up Home
Beth Rich, owner of Mix It Up Home in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, wanted to create a retail space for customers to have a unique shopping experience. She meshed the worlds of home décor, fine art and real estate within one environment. The store is laid out in vignettes that highlight the different linens, colorful serveware, classic stemware and more. Also featured is a 300 square-foot art gallery with “floating walls” suspended from the ceiling that are used to showcase a rotating collection of original artwork.
Perch Home
Perch Home was originally opened in a small space in Maplewood Village, N.J., back in 2006. But last year, owner Michele Bessey was informed she would need to relocate if she wanted to stay open. With the only available real estate in the area being a large restaurant space directly across the street, Bessey took a chance and reinvented Perch Home to be bigger and better. She scoured marketplaces, thrift shops and auctions for items she could repurpose into displays and other areas. After tons of scrubbing, painting and DIY efforts, the new Perch Home has wowed new and returning customers alike.
HJANE JEWELS PRINTFRESH
MARGOT ELENA
NOMINEES FOR VISUAL MERCHANDISING
Barque Gifts
Kandice Matsler, owner of Barque Gifts, loves to hear people say they “didn’t know they needed it until they saw it,” and strives to create that moment for every customer by mixing new and old display pieces with product, original artwork and more to create a “narrative shopping journey.” The Lubbock, Texas, retailer makes use of space from the floor to the ceiling when crafting displays — hanging art and interesting pieces from large wooden “clouds” hung above the sales floor — and strategically places curated “sample gifts” throughout its displays to inspire shoppers.
Presley Paige
You can’t miss Fayeteville, Ark.-based retailer Presley Paige — it’s the only bright pink building on its block! Founded by Maggie Owens in 2020, Presley Paige and its “pink palace” has become a “sacred space” for all things whimsical, fun and — of course — pink, and its thoughtfully curated displays and all-in approach to decorating are a big reason why. From covering the front of its building in curtains of reflective sequins for the holidays to regularly redecorating a lengthy six-person table to show off its tableware and décor offerings, Owens and her team leave no stone un-styled at Presley Paige.
The Market at Three Little Birds
The Market at Three Little Birds is a carefully curated retail space dedicated to showcasing everything from furniture and décor to gifts, apparel, wine, beer and more in its Clayton, N.C., home. Business partners Christi Thompson and Erin Nenni use their combined retail experience and love of DIY and décor — Thompson actually started Three Little Birds back in 2015 to share “her love for painting furniture” — to ensure that every inch of their space and every product from their more than 150 artisans and vendors are thoughtfully styled and paired.
NOMINEES FOR STORE EVENTS
Paddington Station
Ashland, Ore.-based Paddington Station got experimental over the last year, trying new events to honor its 50th anniversary. Mother-daughter duo owners Pam Hammond and Kelly Jean Cooney focused their celebrations on giving back, both to customers and the community, by creating and giving out commemorative toys, T-shirts, cutting boards and more, and building on events like its annual holiday open house, which became a three-day event complete with food bank fundraising, food vendors, live music and more. Earlier in the year, Paddington Station also helped to organize the inaugural Ashland Mystery Festival, welcoming hundreds of book lovers from across the country.
Pauline’s Gifts
Since opening in 1999, Gloucester, Mass.-based Pauline’s Gifts has focused on gifting “from the heart,” and that has guided owner and artist Pauline Bresnahan’s approach to events, too. One issue close to Bresnahan’s heart recently? Supporting and working with other woman-owned businesses in her community to expand her events’ impact. It started when Bresnahan teamed up with two other businesses to create and promote a map of woman-owned businesses along Massachusetts’ Essex Coastal Scenic Byway. Over the holidays, Bresnahan continued that partnership, organizing a multi-store customer celebration event, complete with refreshments, raffles and new partnerships with local restaurants.
The Containery
Longtime Wichita Falls, Texas-based retailer the Containery is home to high-end home, gift, apparel and tabletop brands, and a whole host of engaging events, charitable community programs and more. Described as “regionally famous” for its store events, the Containery and its owner, Kristen Riddle, have played host to everything from holiday shopping strolls and makeover events to trunk shows, game nights, book signings, craft nights and more. Looking to engage with its community and give back, the Containery also takes part in things like canned food drives.
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NOMINEES FOR SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE
Give.
Give., as its name implies, was built on the foundation of giving back and is fully committed to supporting its local community. The Des Moines, Iowa-store has a designated Giving Coordinator who helps to organize monthly partnerships and individual donations, and recipients are chosen by both staff and customer recommendations. The store has contributed to a range of causes, from helping train service dogs to providing bedding and beds to children in need to supporting cancer research. Since opening in 2019, the store has donated more than $75,000 and supported more than 40 different organizations.
Kenneth Ludwig Chicago
Nestled in the Roscoe Village neighborhood of Chicago, Kenneth Ludwig Chicago continuously provides support for those in the community while maintaining an elevated standard within its home décor and gift store. Owner Kenneth Ludwig makes a point to engage in multiple neighborhood events. Last year alone, the store participated in six local charity events — including a “Shop for Schools” event that benefits more than 15 local schools — and hosted three different pet adoption events which helped more than 50 pets find new homes within the community.
Sammysoap
Located in Kirkwood, Mo., Sammysoap is committed to health, a clean planet and enriching the lives of locals with intellectual disabilities. They create cruelty-free and vegan products using quality ingredients sourced for sustainability and fair-trade practices. Outside of that, Sammysoap started as a job creation machine for adults with intellectual disabilities and continues to provide employment to adults with varying abilities by managing to their employees’ strengths to ensure each one is successful. They consider it part of their mission to provide wage equality and fair representation for these members of their community.
NOMINEES FOR HOME DÉCOR STORE
Retailers chosen in partnership with Home Accents Today and its 2024 Retail Stars.
Patina
Minneapolis-based Patina gets high marks for merchandising across its eight locations. Owners Rick Haase and Christine Ward are known for their well-merchandised displays and for offering the best value for the money. The stores’ assortment is broad, ranging from blankets and barware to lighting and occasional furniture. That mindset obviously works — customers tend to linger in the store for 30-40 minutes, Hasse estimated, noting that merchandising displays change constantly. Patina attends the regional markets, works with domestic suppliers, and does its own product development overseas.
Kathy Adams Furniture & Interiors
Kathy Adams started her namesake interior design business in Plano, Texas, more than 30 years ago with the desire to produce inspiring and timeless rooms. Kathy Adams Furniture & Interiors has now grown into a specialty furniture and accent boutique, which mainly carries high-end designers. Being an active part of the local community is one of the store’s core values. The shop originally opened as a small, 1,300-square-foot store, four years later it jumped to 8,000 square feet and in 2020, the store grew to its current size of 23,000 square feet.
Accent Prone
Started by owners Justin and Cheri Lingafelt to sell extra stock sourced from High Point showrooms after furniture markets, Accent Prone in Kernersville, N.C., has evolved to include home décor pieces, apparel, jewelry and gifts. The store, boasting 7,500 square feet, has been in its current location for four years, having moved from another retail space nearby. About 80-90 percent is new inventory, with samples still sold though the company’s 12,000-square-foot warehouse on Saturdays only. The store recently expanded to a second location in Huntersville, N.C., near Charlotte.
Something NEW is Blooming
We are proud to announce the purchase of the Studio M brand, known for their artful home and garden décor made in the USA.
To be exclusively created and offered by DEMDACO later this year.
NOMINEES FOR SALES REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR –NORTHEAST
Irene Frank of Wynne Enterprises
Irene Frank cares about all of her customers and follows through on all aspects. She has impressive knowledge of not only products, but how to merchandise them for optimal sales, which makes sense considering she’s a graduate of the Home Products Development and Marketing Major at Fashion Institute of Technology. She learns each customer’s business and understands how the different geographic and lifestyle factors influence her accounts. She also “goes to bat for her accounts,” and educates her vendors about the market differences for each of her stores.
Dana Golden of Two’s Company
Dana Golden takes the time to understand her vendors and retailers’ business inside and out. As a former retailer herself, she makes well-informed recommendations to her retailers that “are always sell-through hits.” She is incredibly knowledgeable and knows what will and won’t work well for her buyers’ stores. She doesn’t oversell, but lightly pushes her retailers outside of their comfort zone when she believes in a product.
Sydney Woern of OneCoast
Sydney Woern is “more than just a sales rep … she’s a vital part of [the] retail family.” She blends professionalism with kindness and genuine care to tend to her retailers’ needs. She has a knack for remembering even the smallest of details, has developed trusting relationships with her buyers, and is always available to answer retailers’ questions and concerns. Retailers have said that Woern places a strong emphasis on honest, trust-based relationships and never oversells, prioritizing trust and integrity over sales.
NOMINEES FOR SALES REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR –SOUTHEAST
Susan Cox of The Link Companies
Susan Cox is very responsive, answering calls and emails from retailers almost immediately, and makes wonderful product recommendations based on her vast knowledge of products and trends. She works in a timely manner and is known for her great customer service, especially when items arrive damaged. She has been described as cheerful and friendly, making her a “pleasure to do business with.”
Shilpa Hill of Southeast Marketplace
Shilpa Hill consistently keeps her retailers informed of emerging trends, bestsellers and items she thinks will do well for their stores. She makes reordering product easy for retailers, who said they trust her to craft an order for them based on previous orders and gaps in their product mix. She’s also responsive and always available to her retailers. One buyer said of Hill: “She is an excellent partner and has helped me grow and expand over the past six years that I have worked with her.”
Lisa West of Ivystone
Lisa West goes out of her way to take care of her retailers, both those with single locations and those juggling multiple ones. She guides her retailers to products with great margins that sell well to stores’ specific customer base, as well as makes the extra effort to visit retailers in person to go over lines and orders. She has been called an excellent communicator with excellent follow-up.
NOMINEES FOR SALES REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR – midwest
Julie Dakin of Gib Carson & Associates
Julie Dakin acts as a business consultant for her retailers and takes the time to learn about the store and its area to make the best recommendations. As a professional with an “insatiable passion for the gift industry and her customers,” she keeps up with trends, is hyper-organized and works tirelessly for her buyers. Her buyers also say she has “an energy about her that just radiates,” making her enjoyable to work with.
Lisa Deiss of DNA Sales
Lisa Deiss regularly visits her retailers even if it’s a long commute; is extremely communicative, informative and responsive; and always makes sure her retailers get the best deals available. Retailers sing her praises for the quality of her customer service and say they look forward to meeting her when it’s time to go over new lines or place an order. She makes each of her buyers feel like they are her No. 1 priority, and several retailers say they see her more than any of their other reps.
Randy Tenery of Diverse Marketing
Randy Tenery regularly thinks outside of the box for his customers and is extremely knowledgeable of new products and product trends. He goes the extra mile, helping his retail clients reset and refresh their stores and set up for store events, as well as participating. He is viewed as honest, friendly and dependable, and buyers feel he never tries to oversell them.
NOMINEES FOR SALES REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR – WEST
Annie Nichols of OneCoast
Annie Nichols visits her buyers’ stores regularly and has long-term relationships with many of them. Not only does she make wonderful product recommendations for retailers, but she also volunteers to help at special store events, like art walks, holiday open houses and street fairs. She is well versed in her buyers’ needs and knows their businesses inside and out, which is why they say they trust her to make great product recommendations.
Marianne Welch of Sales Producers
Marianne Welch is well-versed in industry trends and always strives to bring fresh new lines to her buyers’ stores. As one retailer put it: “She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that our store is adorned with the most exquisite and appealing products.” She is known for her cheerful, personable and outgoing personality and for always following through on her commitments. Welch’s actions and reputation make it clear that she values the trust of her buyers, as well as the success of her company.
Sharon Woulf of Road Runners
An independent sales rep for Road Runners, Sharon Woulf is “making waves in the industry despite her relatively short tenure with Road Runners.” She is always willing to lend a helping hand to her peers and embodies the spirit of teamwork. Her willingness to go the extra mile for her retailers has gained her fast loyalty and trust. Covering the diverse regions of Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco and Solano County, Woulf “has swiftly established herself as a force to be reckoned with,” Road Runners said.
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NOMINEES FOR SALES REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR –SOUTHWEST
Heidi Lee of Road Runners
A finalist for Sales Representative of the Year in 2023, Heidi Lee is a leader in the industry who has transformed her area into a top-producing region for the brands she represents. Her wonderful reputation among retailers, sales reps and vendors is obvious through her sales numbers, but her leadership extends beyond just great sales. Lee has cultivated a culture of respect and is committed to taking care of her retailers, vendors and coworkers.
Tara Navin of Portico
Tara Navin not only has mastered the basics of being a sales rep — placing orders, helping with damages and checking store inventory for gaps — but she also goes above and beyond, especially with her in-store presence. She volunteers to host trunk shows for her products at her buyers’ stores and helps her retailers make social media videos. Navin even volunteered to work at one of her stores, offering an extra set of hands for several weeks during the holidays while one of the store’s employees was in the intensive care unit.
Anjie Simmons of OneCoast
Anjie Simmons is prompt in returning calls to retailers and is known for swiftly taking care of problems as soon as they arise. She visits stores with special events and meet-andgreets and is often the first rep to donate items for door prize drawings during store events. She is extremely knowledgeable about all of the products she represents, is attentive and goes above and beyond as a retail partner.
From raw metal to living form, born from the hands of skilled artisans, each one of a kind design is a unique act of creation, taking shape one slow and meticulous step at a time.
Top 10 Vendors of the Year
CREATIVE CO-OP
Known for its high design, but approachable home décor and seasonal goods, Creative Co-Op has a product assortment that showcases styles for every room, every taste and every occasion. The company recently launched a “4 brands, 1 experience” initiative to make placing orders at market easier and has strived for greener operations by using eco-friendly packing materials.
DM MERCHANDISING
Offering everything from clever giftables to fashionable apparel, this Elmhurst-Ill.based brand has something for everyone thanks to its wide variety of gifts and diverse product assortment. The company has made the top 10 list several years in a row and was named the 2018 and 2023 Manufacturer of the Year winner.
MUD PIE
Based in Stone Mountain, Ga., this lifestyle brand is best known for its home décor, fashionable apparel, seasonal goods and kids’ and baby items. Retailers have noted that the brand provides some of their bestsellers in their stores and the company’s products work well together for engaging vignettes.
STONEWALL KITCHEN FAMILY OF BRANDS
P. GRAHAM DUNN
Located in America’s largest Amish and Mennonite community of Dalton, Ohio, P. Graham Dunn is an employee-owned company that manufactures wall art, home décor, gifts and, most recently, candles. Its products are known for portraying spiritual, uplifting and inspirational messages.
PRIMITIVES BY KATHY
Primitives by Kathy, best known for its wide variety of home décor items, got its start when founder Kathy Phillips couldn’t find what she was looking for as a retailer herself. Today, Phillips continues to drive the company forward with her artistic vision, pivoting its collections as consumers’ tastes and lifestyles change. Some of the company’s most recent additions target pet lovers and owners, while the company’s spin-off brand, Trash Talk by Annie, provides a snarky appeal.
TOWN PRIDE
Based in Maine, Town Pride curates quality goods made or finished in the U.S. by women and family-owned makers. The company offers everything from knit sweaters to candles to drinkware. Each item is customizable, helping retailers to express their local pride and attract locals and tourists alike.
TWO’S COMPANY
A specialty food producer based in York, Maine, Stonewall Kitchen makes items such as jam, chutney, jellies, grill sauce, cooking oil and mustard, and has also been expanded into a family of brands that include Michel Design Works — which won the 2022 Manufacturer of the Year Award — Vermont Coffee Co., Village Candle, Stonewall Home and others.
OLD WORLD CHRISTMAS
Known for its vast collection of blownglass Christmas ornaments, Old World Christmas has been an icon in the holiday category since 1979. For decades, the seasonal brand has hand-crafted fine ornaments that appeal to traditionalists, as well as pop-culture buffs. Most recently, the brand has expanded into candles, snow globes and other gifts.
Celebrating 55 years in business, Two’s Company is not only known for the tens of thousands of stylish home and fashion items it has produced over the decades, but also for its awe-inspiring visual merchandising techniques on display in its market showrooms. The mother-andson duo behind Two’s Company — Bobbie and Tom Gottlieb — are also well known in the industry.
WARMIES
Regularly gracing Oprah’s annual Favorite Things list, Warmies creates huggable — and heat-able — plush that appeals to kids, teens and adults alike. The company has also expanded into wellness, with gifts that aid in relaxation, as well as kids’ pajamas and books, making the brand a wellrounded choice to add to any product mix.
• 20 COLLECTIONS • 400+ SKU’S
• 96 NEW PRODUCTS
GIFT FOR LIFE’S INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Gift for Life is honoring one of the most accomplished and influential women in the gift industry, Dorothy Belshaw of Andmore, with its 2024 Industry Achievement Award. Gift for Life’s Industry Achievement Award, which has been presented at REA since 2009, recognizes overall excellence and contribution to the gift and home industry — whether as a thought leader, standard-bearer or overall industry influencer.
“Over the past 32 years, I have been amazed by the tenacity and dedication of Gift for Life’s leadership and by the widespread and wholehearted commitment of this industry to help those in need and to do good.”
— Dorothy Belshaw, Andmore
“The Gift for Life Board of Directors unanimously chose Dorothy as this year’s Industry Achievement Award honoree,” said Ari Lowenstein, who was chair of the Gift for Life board at the time the vote was taken. “We are delighted to recognize Dorothy for her career accomplishments and the impact she has had on so many in our industry.”
Belshaw was named president of Andmore in late April, and at the time of her nomination was executive vice president and chief growth officer for Andmore. She oversaw all revenue generation opportunities including permanent leasing, tradeshow, advertising and digital sales, and lead new business development that enriched markets and unlocked value for buyers and sellers.
“I am truly honored to be recognized by this incredible organization founded by Peter Schauben in 1992 — the very same year I joined the gift industry,” Belshaw said. “Over the past 32 years, I have been amazed by the tenacity and dedication of Gift for Life’s leadership and by the widespread and wholehearted commitment of this industry to help those in need and to do good.”
Belshaw joined Andmore (then International Market Centers (IMC)) in 2012, bringing 20-plus years of home and gift tradeshow industry experience to her role as president of its fledgling gift division, with the specific charge of expanding the Las Vegas Market’s gift, tabletop and housewares offerings. Her role soon broadened to include marketing and digital oversight, with responsibility for all aspects of the end-to-end customer experience, driving increased buyer acquisition across all IMC Markets, and developing tools and services to improve the at-market experience for buyers and exhibitors.
In 2018, as a member of IMC’s executive leadership team, she was instrumental in the acquisition and integration of AmericasMart Atlanta, which included the then-Atlanta International
Dorothy Belshaw of Andmore
Gift & Home Furnishings Market. In 2022, she led IMC’s acquisition of Shoppe Object and the subsequent expansion of the brand with the launch of Shoppe Object – High Point in 2023. Most recently, she spearheaded the co-location of Andmore’s Las Vegas Apparel with Clarion’s Women’s Wear in Nevada (WWIN) Show, which debuted in February 2024 as a customer-centric, efficient experience that added value and enabled buyers to see more and do more while at Las Vegas Fashion Week.
Prior to IMC, Belshaw was SVP at George Little Management (GLM), then the nation’s largest producer of consumer product tradeshows for the gift and home industries. Belshaw is an executive board member of the High Point Market Authority (HPMA) and the Home Furnishings Hall of Fame, and member of WithIt. Previously, she served as a board member of Gift for Life and the Gift & Home Trade Association (GHTA).
THANK YOU!
We celebrate our honorees, guests and sponsors for making this year's event so special. We certainly got it right when we named these awards a er "excellence." Our industry has quite a bit of it.
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Q & A
IDENTIFYING YOUR CUSTOMER DEMOGRAPHIC
Retailer Carol Schroeder discusses the benefits of building a customer avatar and ways to help draw employees in during staffing shortages.
Your Customer Avatar
Q: It’s been suggested that we build a customer avatar in order to determine our target market for advertising. What is this — and is it worth pursuing?
A: I must admit that I thought avatars were cartoon versions of yourself you created so you could customize greetings to your friends on social media. This is indeed one use of the word, along with its original use referring to the manifestation of a deity in bodily form. But it turns out that a customer avatar refers to the creation of a single-person profile of your target shopper.
You probably already have a good idea of who your customers are, because independent retailers have the advantage of actually spending time on their shop’s sales floor. While you undoubtedly see a variety of customers come through the door, in order to make your advertising and social media most effective it may be helpful to create a mental image — or avatar — of your ideal shopper. He or she may not represent someone who comes in frequently, but rather the type of core customer who makes up the majority of your sales.
The attributes of your shop’s avatar might include the age, gender, income level, shopping wants and needs, or residence demographics.
The more you know about this target shopper, the better you can adjust your social media and advertising to attract more people like him/her. For example, current statistics show that almost 25 percent percent of Facebook users in the United States are between 25 and 34 years, which makes them Facebook’s largest audience. About an equal number are men and women.
The majority of Instagram’s users fall into the 18 to 34 age range. So clearly Meta is important if your profile customer is a young adult.
When considering print or media advertising, ask to see the demographics of those who subscribe or listen. You want to appeal to people who are already your avatar so you can bring them in more frequently, and to reach potential customers like them. When creating ads and social media posts, it may help to have a concrete image of who you are trying to target. This can also be useful when buying new merchandise.
Unfortunately, it is hard to evaluate the success of money spent on any promotion. The legendary Philadelphia retailer John Wanamaker is credited with saying: “Half the money I spend on advertising is wasted; the trouble is I don't know which half.” This is as true today as it was in the 19th century.
Lacking Employees
Q: When we get together with fellow retailers, the talk always turns to staffing challenges. We are all facing a shortage of employees and other problems. Your advice would be welcome!
A: The difficulty in hiring a good sales staff may be the No. 1 issue for retailers — large and small — at the moment, and there isn’t much relief in sight. There are many factors at play, including a shrinking workforce due to population changes, and the fact that there are now many better paying, lower stress jobs available. If it’s any comfort, it’s worse for our big box brethren. We at least have the option of offering an enjoyable workplace.
In fact, there are many ways in which we can attract more
applicants than they do. In addition to providing a creative and exciting environment, we can offer a flexible, dependable schedule that makes it possible for an employee to fit work into a life that also includes school, family or other responsibilities. One of the department stores in our area used to refer to its employees as “hourly units” rather than people. They are no longer in business.
Everyone wants a job that feels like meaningful work. Provide your employees with variety in their work whenever possible. All of our staff members are invited to do visual merchandising, including window displays, and each one is in charge of a department in the store.
Being part of a locally-owned business is a point of pride. Whenever your business is involved in giving back to the community, make sure that each employee knows that their work is essential to making this possible. You might consider paying for a few hours of volunteer work on a project you are involved in, or getting everyone involved in team-building work such at the United Way’s Day of Caring. Some stores let employees suggest charities to donate to, too.
Compensation and benefits are important, too, of course. It’s hard for a small shop to match the pay and additional benefits offered by big businesses, but you need to be competitive. This may mean hiring fewer people in order to offer paid time off, vacations and insurance to those on the payroll. We provide health insurance for our full-time staff members, which is a major expense that we consider essential.
You can also offer perks that don’t cost much. We give all our employees a discount of cost plus 10 percent on purchases, which means that they often have personal experience with the goods that we carry. We also offer each of them two 20 percent off discount cards to give to friends or family members. In addition to staff discounts, we let employees take what they want from our shelf of free merchandise culled from our returns and defectives. They’re also rewarded with a sub shift voucher for taking a shift for someone who can’t work.
A happy, motivated sales staff is essential to your store’s success. If you can’t find enough people to fill your schedule, you might need to cut back your store hours. It's not an ideal solution to, but it may be better than offering a bad customer experience.
WHAT IS GOING ON ONLINE?
Retailers have heard for years from nearly every person, publication, association and guidebook that a website and online presence in general is a must-have. A website — especially one from which sales could be made — became undoubtedly important in 2020, when COVID-19 shut down in-person shopping across the world for weeks at a time. But, now that the pandemic is in the rearview and many businesses and people are back to pre-pandemic routines and habits, how is your website looking? What about your social media pages and listings on sites like Google and Yelp? Is it still a priority? Are you still selling online? Done any recent maintenance? Get a better feel for how other retailers from across the gift and specialty store industry are crafting their online presence and learn what works well for them on socials. You might even get a few ideas for your own site and socials with the help of a few of the business owners we interviewed.
Lisa Gustafson
Periwinkle Emporium Glendora, Calif.
“We have a website and we do offer online shopping there. Customers can choose between local delivery, pickup or shipping when shopping, and we have everything from wrapping paper, greeting cards and other stationery, kids’ toys, gifts and many other things available for online shoppers.
“The events calendar is also available on our website, complete with a description of each event, our location and time details, and the option to purchase tickets. This has been very useful for us and the customers, and we link back to our website for signup when promoting our classes and events online on things like Instagram.”
What’s Doing Well Online and In Stores?
“Elle Crée’s Paint-byNumber Kits include everything you need to create a beautiful painting and to take an enchanting break from your hurry.”
— Lisa Gustafson
Debi Sullivan
Glass Mermaids
League City, Texas
“Adorn your patio and trees with these adorable Gord-O Bird Houses! Each is made out of gourds.”
— Debi Sullivan
“When you need to dress up a gift for a friend, carry your groceries out with ease, or keep a tote stashed under your car seat, the Consuela Grab and Go Mini or Basic Bag is your go-to! These colorful utility totes are easy to clean and ready to go.”
— Melinda Vitale Shaw
“Last summer, I really focused on our online presence during our 20th anniversary. Glass Mermaids has always been a store that you have to experience, and I always thought that could not be achieved online. But two ladies [who] joined our team a couple of years back have finally talked me into the social media world.
“I learned videos can bring the customer into the store's ‘home,’ and have stuck with posting more regularly. We have also redone our website with new photos and a new layout, though we have not started selling online just yet, which was one of our goals from last year when I started focusing on web.”
Melinda
Vitale Shaw
MeLinda’s Fine Gifts
Picayune, Miss.
“Summer is slower for us, so we continue to reach out online and in other ways to get people in and shopping, in-person or online. On our website, you can purchase shoes, apparel items and a selection of our gift items and our accessories, like our cookbooks and tumblers and mugs from Swig and Tervis.
“Our website also hosts a promotional video we created, and all our social media profiles, which we try to post on at least once a day promoting new styles, our sales and things like that. We also use the website to talk a little about myself and the store’s almost 27-year history.”
INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
““Costco
and Joe’s often have outof-the-way, less-than-prime spots, but their customers search them out nonetheless and make them the focal point of their shopping trips.”
You’d probably agree that there aren’t two retailers more dissimilar than Costco and Trader Joe’s. Everything from their merchandise mixes to the ambience to the size of their stores is absolutely different. Yet it turns out Costco and Trader Joe’s have much more in common than you think. SEE MORE PAGE 86
Why Just Zig When You Can Zag?
You’d probably agree that there aren’t two retailers more dissimilar than Costco and Trader Joe’s. Everything from their merchandise mixes to the ambience to the size of their stores is absolutely different.
Yet it turns out Costco and Trader Joe’s have much more in common than you think. Apart from being among the most successful retailers in the industry, today they each have a singular approach to their business that is quite remarkable. They bend the rules, go their own way and, most importantly, they make it work.
As such, the two companies offer some lessons for all retailers — large and small — on how to run their businesses. Some of this is basic Business 101. But perhaps a few elements are more subtle and require a nuanced view to fully appreciate.
Here are five key points of differentiation.
1. Edited Assortments. Costco and Trader Joe’s understand they can’t be all things to all people, so they very carefully tailor their merchandise mixes. They were doing so long before curating became the over-used, misunderstood dynamic it is today. So, you won’t find broad selections in any of their merchandise categories. Instead, it’s the result of educated buyers who know what’s right for their store. Aldi and Lidl are following a similar strategy, but they don’t have some of the other elements of these two.
2. Treasure Hunting. Another overused phrase in the retail business today but when you walk into either of these two stores, you’ll never know what surprises you’ll find and how delighted you'll be in the process. Predictable mixes often have predictable results. The TJX off-price crowd goes in for the treasure hunt, but often find it’s more hunt and less treasure.
Costco and Joe’s make the hunting easy.
3. Private Label. Another retail technique we hear a lot about these days but for too many retailers, their store brands are just replacements for some other brand they are trying to cut out and get the margins for themselves. Here, the store brands are special, often cuts above national brands and items you wouldn’t find — under any name — anywhere else. H&M and Zara are all house brands but they are often just substitutes for what you can find elsewhere.
4. Destination Not Location. The “location, location, location” mantra is one of the most widely quoted in all of retailing. And there’s something to it for some kinds of stores, like drug chains, which insist on corner locations that can be seen from any direction. Costco and Joe’s often have out-of-the-way, lessthan-prime spots, but their customers search them out nonetheless and make them the focal point of their shopping trips. Bed Bath & Beyond used to buy cheap real estate believing they were a destination ... which worked until they no longer were.
5. Great staffs. Other than stores charging $10,000 for a handbag, perhaps no other retail establishment of any size has better, friendlier and more helpful staffs than these two. They will go out of their way to help you locate something within the store and they are well-informed on what the store is selling. It’s quite remarkable and it’s probably no coincidence that employees are well compensated and treated fairly. Container Store has great employees but it’s not enough anymore.
Many, but probably not all, of these attributes are transferable. But collectively what they prove is that retailing is a not a one-size-fits-all game. Zigging works for many, but zaggers are in a league of their own.
Warren Shoulberg has reported on the gift and home industry for most of his career. He is often quoted in national media like the New York Times and CNN, and contributes to several trade publications, Forbes.com and the Robin Report.
Where the Kids Go to Play
Do you remember what it was like to walk into your favorite toy store when you were a kid? For me, it was the tinkling sound of the little bell overhead, announcing my entrance as I pushed open the heavy door. Once inside, I made a beeline for the Hello Kitty stationery and stickers that I could add to my collection. And when Christmastime rolled around, that display was joined by Madame Alexander baby dolls, Steiff plush and a Flexible Flyer sled that my brother and I hoped would one day be ours. Spoiler alert: Wishes do come true.
Today, running a toy store isn’t as simple as stocking the right brands and hoping that a tinkling doorbell will soon be followed by a ringing cash register. Specialty retailers know there is no tried-and-true formula that earns them a customer for life. But there are steps you can take to ensure that when it comes to play, your shop is the one that the community turns to.
“Today, running a toy store isn’t as simple as stocking the right brands and hoping that a tinkling doorbell will soon be followed by a ringing cash register.”
1. Know Your Purpose. When you first opened shop, what was your goal? Keep that idea front and center to help maintain your vision. “Make that mission clear and precise, but with room for change and creativity,” said Matt Poulson, co-owner of Ruckus & Glee in Wauwatosa, Wis. “Let that mission be a guide for every decision that you make.”
2. Focus on Customer Service. Differentiating your store from Target and Amazon is largely about providing that personal experience. Not only can you walk a parent through a board game, but you can gift-wrap and ship it where it needs to go. Think of your store as a helping hand — something that every gift giver can appreciate.
3. Use Social Wisely. Don’t just sign up for TikTok for the sake of branding your store’s website; engage consumers by posting new product arrivals and special event details. “Social media is a strong component of our success, allowing us to tell our story with creativity, energy and humor,” said Amy Saldanha, owner of Kiddywampus in Chanhassen, Minn., and Hopkins, Minn.
4. Designate the Right People. You can’t do everything by yourself, even if you think you can (hello, burnout). Saldanha relies upon a solid team of sales associates that allow her to concentrate on her own daily responsibilities. “Build in the
Miniland USA’s Doll with Vitiligo, shown in a new wheelchair, will be promoted during "Together We Play."
operational capacity right away: who is creating new event ideas, what new products need events or social media, and how can staff stay ahead of it all, so customer experience is consistently great,” she offered.
5. Take Advantage of Supplier Promotions. Toy makers that offer dedicated resources are an underutilized asset. For instance, Miniland USA supports its retail partners that carry their inclusive doll line via the Together We Play program. According to sales manager Clara Roque, the company provides product images and information on influencer partnerships and denotes partner stores at which to redeem prizes during campaign giveaways. “We know how busy [our retailers] are, so we give them everything they need to make it as easy as possible,” she said.
6. Stay on Top of Trends … But Not at the Expense of Evergreens. Poulson of Ruckus & Glee depends on sales reps and fellow specialty retailers to stay on top of what’s hot but doesn’t hold onto merch that’s past its prime. “If the inventory doesn’t turn like it did in the past three years, ween it out,” he advised.
7. Get Involved Locally. Nothing says community like a store that gives back. Kiddywampus provides silent auction items to area schools and works with civic groups on donation drives. “Our customers know this and appreciate it,” she said. And hopefully when it’s time to buy a toy or gift, people will remember who came through for their kids.
Pamela Brill has covered the toy industry for 20-plus years. The former senior/managing editor of Playthings magazine, she serves as an ambassador for the Toy Association’s Genius of Play and writes for numerous national business and lifestyle publications.
Q & A
4 QUESTIONS WITH Gift for Life
Sarah Mount, Gift for Life chair and SVP of Integrated Marketing at Andmore, shares details on Gift for Life’s mission, beneficiaries and upcoming fundraisers. See how you can get involved.
Born to Give
Q: What is Gift for Life?
A: Gift for Life (GFL) is the gift and home industries’ longest-running, volunteer-led national charitable organization. It was formed in 1992 in New York City, and since its inception has united our industries to raise nearly $7 Million for AIDS research, education, treatment and care through nationwide at-market events, cause marketing programs and direct donations. Its 25-member board is made up of volunteers across all facets of the industry, working together toward a common goal of supporting communities in need. For the last several years, GFL has focused its fundraising efforts on World Central Kitchen (WCK) and AIDS Walk NY which benefits GMHC’s HIV/AIDS treatment, prevention and advocacy programs. Everything GFL raises goes directly to WCK or AIDS Walk.
Upcoming Fundraisers
Q: How does GFL raise funds and how can retailers donate?
A: GFL hosts signature fundraising events and programs throughout the year. Events include large networking events such as Party with a Purpose in the spring and founder Peter Schauben’s 70th birthday event in Atlanta this July. GFL also organizes giving opportunities at markets through which participating vendor and sales agency showrooms graciously donate $1 per order, or round-up to the nearest dollar donation. During the June Total Home and Gift Market in Dallas GFL will present its Industry Achievement Award at the Retailer Excellence Awards and ask for donations to WCK in honor of recipient Dorothy Belshaw. Give at giftforlife.org/donate at any time.
Home Fighting Hunger
Q: What is the Home vs. Hunger initiative and how does it weave in with Gift for Life's overall mission?
A: Home vs. Hunger is a dedicated campaign for the home furnishings, design and décor industry to raise funds for WCK. It debuted at High Point Market in 2022 and has raised more than $60,000 for WCK’s crisis-related hunger relief efforts. Home vs. Hunger is anchored by a signature party — Party with a Purpose — held every Spring in High Point. Its most recent event raised over $21,000 through generous donations by major home manufacturers as well as party-goers.
Get Involved
Q: How has GFL evolved and how can people get involved?
A: Gift for Life had long hosted annual signature fundraising events in Atlanta, Las Vegas and New York during markets. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the strategy shifted to a series of micro-fundraisers held all year-long. Post-COVID, GFL has a hybrid approach to fundraising. While individual fundraisers happen concurrently throughout the year, the appetite for larger, signature events has returned and GFL is easing back into that format — many centered around markets where retailers and vendors are present to connect. Anyone wanting to support WCK can donate through the website at giftforlife. org/donate. Anyone looking to partner on an event, collaborate on a fundraiser, or find out how to get involved, can contact a member of the board to discuss opportunities. The full board member list is located on the GFL website. You may also contact me at smount@andmore.com.
•
CHELSEA
Source: Home Fragrance Market report, Global Market Insights SCENTED CANDLES accounted for $4 BILLION in sales in 2023.
BY THE NUMBERS
HOME FRAGRANCE
As consumers continue to put emphasis on making their personal spaces more like sanctuaries, the home fragrance category has been front of mind. According to the Home Fragrance Market report by Global Market Insights, there was an increased demand for home fragrance products in 2023, with consumers specifi cally looking for eco-friendly options and products that incorporate natural and sustainable ingredients. The home fragrance industry was valued at $10 billion in 2023, according to the report, with North Americas accounting for 30 percent of the market share.
Source: Strategic Insights, 2023 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study
Indulge yourself with Trapp’s collection body care products, delivering an exceptional sensory experience. Unleash the power of aloe vera and immerse yourself in ultimate hydration as our moisturizing lotions caress your skin with gentle care. Reveal hands as smooth as silk with our soaps that gently purifies as it cleanses your skin from oil and dirt. Our signature gold-capped, shatterproof bottleadds a touch of refinement to your space, elevating your surroundings as you enhance your self-care.
Discover Luxury Home Fragrance. Scan the QR code to learn more about Trapp Fragrances.
Dollars By Region 2023 vs. 2024
How non-top 100 retailer regional receivables in the U.S. compare year over year: April
GAIN AR Statistics show the April 2024 overall receivables of non-top 100 retailers are down 0.5 percent compared to receivables of non-top 100 retailers April 2023. After low receivables in January and March, this rebound, that is supported by current receivable dollar, will hopefully represent the start of a positive trend. Year to date, 2024 overall receivables of non-top 100 retailers are still down 10.8 percent compared to 2023. This chart is created from data provided by the Gift Associates Interchange Network (GAIN).
$45,000,000
$40,000,000
$35,000,000
$30,000,000
$25,000,000
$20,000,000
$15,000,000
$10,000,000
$5,000,000 $0
April 2023
April 2024
Source: GAIN
GET TECHNICAL
Today’s social media landscape presents online retailers with a tough challenge: keeping abreast of changes in the platforms that consumers inhabit while maintaining a cohesive brand strategy across different channels. With the uncertainty of TikTok looming on the horizon, the task at hand for online retailers could get even trickier. SEE MORE PAGE 96
“ “If TikTok were to disappear overnight, online retailers would instantly lose access to a crucial means of communicating with this group of customers.”
A Ban on TikTok? Here’s How to Prepare
by Spencer Musick
Today’s social media landscape presents online retailers with a tough challenge: keeping abreast of changes in the platforms that consumers inhabit while maintaining a cohesive brand strategy across different channels.
With the uncertainty of TikTok looming on the horizon, the task at hand for online retailers could get even trickier.
Particularly for younger audiences, TikTok is a widely used social media platform. Its “bite-sized” pieces of content cater to the shorter attention spans of younger buyers, most especially Gen Z but also many millennials.
These age groups look to TikTok for influencer opinions and reviews of products and, with the recent debut of TikTok shop, are increasingly making purchases directly through the app.
If TikTok were to disappear overnight, online retailers would instantly lose access to a crucial means of communicating with this group of customers.
“The social media landscape is changing daily, and new platforms are bound to emerge, especially with the potential absence of TikTok.”
This is even more reason to be developing and diversifying a social media strategy that is not overly reliant on a single platform, said Meghan Stabler, senior vice president of marketing at BigCommerce, an e-commerce software solutions provider.
“While TikTok feels synonymous with Gen Z, you can’t underestimate the power of other social platforms like YouTube and Instagram,” Stabler said. “Both have embraced video-driven content with YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels, and (they) continue to grow in popularity, should TikTok cease to exist.
“Let’s not forget, YouTube is without question the most popular social media platform amongst Gen Z, with some studies showing that up to 96 percent of Gen Z identify as active YouTube users.”
There is also a previous instance of TikTok being banned, which saw other platforms swoop in to fill the vacuum. This
can inform the approach taken by U.S. companies, said Arjan Singh, the author of “Competitive Success: Building Strategies with Corporate War Games.”
Singh noted that a TikTok ban, while certainly disruptive, would not be without precedent.
“This has happened before: India banned TikTok in 2020, and YouTube, Instagram and Snapchat were the replacements," he said. " So, the expectation is that in the U.S. there will be a shift to these platforms, but it’s not clear if that will happen.
“So, we are looking at two scenarios: Either the big three dominate, or there [will be] a lot of platforms that people go to. Brands and retailers need to war game for both as it’s not yet clear which way it will go,” he added.
This second scenario could prove particularly channeling for retailers, Singh noted, as younger users “scatter” to different social media platforms.
“There are a lot of other platforms like BeReal, Twitch, Discord, Reddit, Snap and, to a lesser degree, Twitter and Facebook. Brands and retailers will have to figure out how to navigate this new dynamic where there might not be a platform of choice and there is a lot more ‘platform hopping’ from users."
The huge number of social media players on the scene is reason enough for brands and retailers to diversify their online marketing strategies now, and this is true, both Singh and Stabler said, regardless of what happens with TikTok in the short term.
Singh urged companies to “proactively be on multiple platforms and ready to quickly scale up and down as needed” based on changes in the social media landscape.
Stabler, for her part, urged online retailers to be prepared to proactively adapt to instability.
“The social media landscape is changing daily, and new platforms are bound to emerge, especially with the potential absence of TikTok," she said. "Knowing that the social media landscape is constantly evolving, the most important strategy for e-commerce retailers to prioritize is flexibility and diversification."
Editor's note: Spencer Musick is an editor of sister publication Furniture Today.
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AWARDS SEASON
The GDA team is excited to honor our Retailer Excellence Awards finalists in Dallas this month, and we are even more excited to introduce you to them all in this issue! If you want to learn even more about the finalists in every category, and get updates on who the final winners are, head to our website. (Photo from 2023 REA gala).
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Fedoras, berets, sun hats, baseball caps, beanies, bowler hats, snapbacks, visors, porkpie hats, newsboy caps, trucker hats — headwear comes in many shapes, sizes and styles. And whether you own an apparel-focused boutique, a museum gift store or toy store, chances are, you have at least one of those styles in your stock.
While we might not have any hard and fast rules specific to promoting headwear accessories, we do have some great examples of engaging posts and beautiful displays that feature hats of all kinds from retailers from across the country. Take a look through them to get inspired!
TRENDING GIFTS
CANDLES | BATH & BODY | FASHION | HOLIDAY | KIDS | GOURMET | GIFTABLES | STATIONERY | HOME
SUSTAINABLE STACKERS
by Amanda Erd
Comes with illustrated drawstring bag
Made of sustainable rubber wood
Sustainability is one of the top factors to consider when stocking toys. According to the Toy Association, 45 percent of parents under the age of 40 consider the environmental impact of a toy when making buying decisions.
Toy company Mentari has always put an emphasis on sustainability. The majority of products from Mentari are made using a rubber wood, a by-product of the latex industry, that allows them to repurpose materials during the creation process that would otherwise be wasted. They also make a point to actively contribute to global reforestation efforts – for every tree used in their toy production, Mentari plants a new one.
This practice isn’t new for Mentari, either. For more than 30 years, the company has been ethically
Includes six stackable figures
crafting wooden toys in a single location in Indonesia. According to the company website, maintaining designing production at one singular location allows for better quality control across all of their products. Each piece is made using the rubber wood and then painted with a non-toxic paint before undergoing thorough quality checks to ensure safety.
These Happy Stacking Dinosaurs help children develop fine motor skills and foster problem-solving skills through the art of balance. Each set comes with six crafted wooden dinos and a drawstring bag for easy carrying, making it great to bring on the go.
Happy Stacking Dinosaurs. Mentari. mentari.toys
TECTI kinetic building system. Fun in Motion Toys. funinmotiontoys.com
BIG KIDS WANNA Have Fun, Too
Move over, girls and boys: ‘Kidults’ are taking over the toybox.
by Pamela Brill
Elyse K. Steinberger, a teacher in Millbrae, Calif., recently bought herself a plush Peanuts doll. “I was having a rough morning and saw how my kids at school carry around stuffies,” she said. “I thought maybe I could do that, too, and that perhaps it would help me.”
For other adults, toys provide an opportunity for family togetherness. David Gerard of Levittown, N.Y., was introduced to Monopoly Deal by his older daughter, who had just returned from a vacation with friends and had gotten hooked on the card game. “She brought the game over and taught us all how to play,” he said. “I wound up buying two extra sets: one for myself and my wife and another for our younger daughter and son-in-law.”
Steinberger and Gerard are not alone. More adults are purchasing toys not just for their kids, but for themselves. Deemed ‘kidults’ (defined by research firm Circana as consumers ages 18 and up), these customers have carved out a niche category in the toy marketplace. This movement, while initially fueled by the pandemic and a craving for nostalgia during a time of uncertainty and unrest, is not only responsible for a new demographic, but a boost in toy sales.
According to Circana vice president and industry advisor of toys Juli Lennett, toy recipients ages 18 and up grew 8 percent in 2023 — the strongest growth segment for U.S. toy sales that year. Today, toy makers and retailers continue to focus on more
ways to attract kidult customers. Whether they are developing collector-focused lines, tapping into influencer-driven product trends or stocking shelves with classic toys, industry insiders are embracing the cross-sect between kid and kid at heart with open arms.
Collectible Connection
When the world of childhood play collides with adult pop culture, it’s an opportunity to appeal to a broader consumer base. Such was the inspiration behind Mattel’s Little People Collector line, introduced to adult fans in 2019. Giorgio Cavalli, senior marketing manager for the global brand team, describes the Little People Collector development as one “born from the idea that toys we love as children, when combined with things we have grown to love as adults, can make every adult smile and bring them a little joy.” This premise sparked the initial roster of playsets, featuring The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine, KISS and WWE.
Since their debut, the Little People Collector brand has grown from three to 50 sets as of 2023, including The Rolling Stones, “Ted Lasso,” “Friends,” “Seinfeld,” “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and “Stranger Things,” among others. “2023 was definitely our biggest year yet, as we saw our NSYNC set sell out in hours after the band’s reunion on the VMA stage,” said Cavalli, also noting the launch of the 2023 Super Bowl
Champions set, followed by all 32 NFL teams later that year. 2024 has already seen the release of an “I Love Lucy” set, which has quickly become a fan favorite.
Kidults are gravitating toward toys like these because they denote a playful nod to beloved television shows, movies and other pop culture icons with established fan bases. And it’s not just the products themselves that are a draw, but the entire — shall we say — package deal. “Adult collectors want to display their fandom, so the packaging is an integral part of the design of these sets,” noted Cavalli. “The packaging is a window into each world, taking inspiration from scenes or memorable moments.
To expand its Little People Collector customer base, Mattel has a dedicated space under MattelCreations.com, where collectors can keep tabs on the latest releases. The company also partners with specialty retailers and online stores to promote the product line. “Reaching the right … fans is key, which is why we often work with the different licensors to reach those audiences through their official social channels or live events,” he said.
Also zeroing in on pop culture juggernauts — but on the softer side — is Steiff North America, which counts adult-focused plush as a significant part of its business. Over the years, the company has released high-end collectibles under such licenses as Universal Studios, James Bond and Peanuts. Also of note is Steiff Rocks!, a plush teddy bear series featuring Elton John, Queen, The Rolling Stones and The Beatles.
According to Director of Sales Melissa Bullock, Steiff USA does not rely on retail promotions, but rather lets the product speak for itself. “The product and the demand for characters from fans really propel the sales, and sometimes [there’s] a little frenzy to find them,” he noted. “It’s also a great win for our retailers to make full mark-up on a $300+ item.” The handcrafted plush, fashioned from mohair, wool and silk, is made in limited quantities, further enhancing its collectability. “We hold a prestigious place in people’s homes and offices where we can be an elevated conversation piece,” added Bullock.
Hands-On Play
For adults who remember spending hours sprawled out on the
family room floor, building miniature worlds and creations of their own design, construction playsets from toy makers like LEGO and Plus-Plus USA bring that memory into the present.
“Our years of experience in designing sets for older or more experienced builders have shown us that the joy of Lego brick building knows no age boundaries,” said Genevieve Capa Cruz, senior marketing director, adults, Lego Group. Citing the company’s recent Play Well Research, she noted that the majority of adults find that playing with Legos helps them relax (88 percent), keeps them mentally sharp (89 percent) and unleashes their creativity (90 percent).
Meanwhile, Plus-Plus USA’s Inspired line celebrates worldclass artists, such as Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo and Hokusai. “We’ve found that Plus-Plus inherently reminds many adults of the 8-bit style of video games that they grew up with,” said Social Media Manager Lexi Torrence and Senior Graphic Designer Ryan Shelley of the pixel-shaped playthings.
For kidults in search of more unconventional puzzle-making is Fun in Motion Toys, whose Shashibo magnetic puzzle cube, containing 36 rare earth metals, can be transformed into 70 different shapes. Adults can collect and connect multiple cubes to create large, geometric structures. “This keeps fans anticipating the latest designs we come out with to add to the artistic sculptures they’re building,” said CEO Kevin Daniels.
To merchandise these items, Fun in Motion provides retailers with free display units with video monitors and demo SKUs. “We
James Bond Goldfinger Musical Teddy Bear Limited Edition 2024. Steiff North America. steiff.com.
Inspired - Frida Kahlo. Plus-Plus USA. plusplusUSA.com.
Crossbows & Catapults. Goliath. goliathgames.com.
Crafted Elegance, Timeless Shine
regularly hear from our specialty partners that our Shashibo countertop display is one of their highest margin programs (56 percent) in their store per square foot,” noted Daniels. The company also features a store locator tool on its own website, helping to promote sales.
Those who preferred curating their sticker collections instead of building and puzzle-solving no longer have to unearth dust-covered albums from their parents’ basement. The re-introduction of the Trend Retro Stinky Stickers enables seasoned collectors to bring back those wonder years of sharing and trading with friends.
“With over one billion sold back in the ‘80s, the sight — and smell — of these stickers bring back memories for lots of kidults,” said Debbie Bernard, senior product manager, Trend Enterprises. Not only do they love to add to their collections, she noted, but they can make new memories by sharing stories with their own kids.
Specialty retailers can take advantage of Trend’s special promotions to effectively merchandise these impulse items. Free revolving floor and counter displays are available with qualifying orders, as are free headers for creating their own in-store displays. Retailers that ship orders can enclose Trend’s downloadable, printable sheets for collecting and coloring or keep a stack at the register for customers.
Game On!
It’s not a secret that adults enjoy playing board games both at home and now in dedicated community locales. According
to recent data from Credence Research, the board game café market is expected to reach $2.5 million by 2030, and stores that combine game playing with food and camaraderie are popping up all over the country. While family games are a popular draw with all ages, titles with more mature content or that involve an advanced skill set are targeted at the kidult sector.
Relatable, known for its flagship What Do You Meme? Game, has found a following among Gen Zers and millennials. “Our games are designed with adult sensibilities in mind, blending humor, strategy and mature themes for an engaging experience,” said Chief Strategy Officer Tom Emelo. “Whether you’re deciphering gibberish with Incohearent or crafting hilarious text exchanges in New Phone, Who Dis?, our games are packed with references that hit the sweet spot for adults.”
Adult humor is also at the forefront of Exploding Kittens’ games which, as President Carly McGinnis explains, are aimed at those who can get in touch with their inner jokester (consider the company’s name alone). “Think throwing foam burritos at each other or laughing at the occasional fart joke,” she said. “We like to say that our games aren’t funny, but they make the people you’re playing with funny.”
As to why party games resonate so well with kidults, it all comes down to camaraderie. “Board games are an icebreaker, but they also give you a reason to get together and break bread (or cut cards),” said McGinnis, who enjoys playing the company’s signature title with friends over a beer at a local brewery.
Taking a walk down memory lane is another reason that adults gravitate to board games. Goliath’s distribution deal with
Coming 'Kidult' Attractions
Looking to update your inventory with big-kid favorites?
Here’s a sampling of what’s in store from some top brands:
Exploding Kittens
Let’s Hit Each Other With Fake Swords
Fun In Motion Toys
Nockles, HyperTiles and TECTI
Goliath
Crossbows & Catapults
Mattel
Little People Collector Harry Potter, Voltron, Mean Girls, Wednesday and Gremlins
Relatable
Hunt A Killer, Jokes On Who
Steiff
Donald Duck, James Bond Goldfinger Musical Teddy Bear Limited Edition 2024
Funko Games has enabled the company to expand its portfolio with 80s favorites like “The Goonies” and “Back to the Future,” along with “Star Trek.” In addition to the nostalgia aspect, kidult game titles encompass a level of entertainment designed for an adult mindset. “This could be through clever wordplay, humorous illustrations or playful references that are more likely to be understood and appreciated by adults,” noted Hollis Simmons, brand manager for games.
And of course, game makers that dial into the undeniable influence of social media on pop culture are a win with kidults. Educational Insights’ Kanoodle, which came on the market 18 years ago, has seen a new wave of gamers in large part because of a TikTok challenge that garnered tremendous support at retail.
“We’re delighted to see so many [consuners] jump on the #KanoodleChallenge fervor, entertaining and engaging viewers with their own Kanoodle content,” said General Manager Lisa Guili. Educational Insights has begun partnering with retailers on local Kanoodle competitions and plans to livestream select winners in Ultimate Champion competitions on @kanoodleoffical later this year.
Heeding the Call
Retailers across the country are responding to the kidult movement by stocking up on toys and gifts that speak to a more seasoned consumer.
At Monkey’s Uncle Toys in Beaufort, S.C., store owner Joe O’Brien counts games, puzzles and novelty items among his
Harvest House Publishers’ gift and specialty books combine high-quality design and packaging with encouraging content at an a ordable price. With over 25 years of experience publishing strong-selling titles for the gift trade, Harvest House is a trusted source for innovative and inspirational books that celebrate the best of friends, family, and faith.
top sellers for adults. Popular items include Rubik’s Cube from SpinMaster, lava lamps from Schylling and Shashibo from Fun in Motion. These product categories also do well at Purple Cow Toys in Eugene, Ore., where store owner notes Ravensburger, Winning Moves, PlayMonster and Fun in Motion as favorite brands. “As word spreads about our inventory, people come in especially for puzzles and games,” she said.
Meanwhile at Mildred & Dildred in Tucson, Ariz., plush is king with kidults, with Jellycat earning the top spot. Store owner Autumn Ruhe is also seeing the resurgence of Peanuts and Miffy and has been bringing in new merchandise whenever possible. “Before the pandemic, it was rare when I would have young
adults come into the store,” she said. “Now they are maybe 20 percent of my business, and they’re almost always buying for themselves.”
Looking ahead, industry insiders don’t believe the kidult trend is a passing fancy, but rather one that has earned a permanent spot in the toy market.
“I think there is a general trend, especially among millennials, that they don’t feel like ‘adults’ the way that their parents did,” said McGinnis. “It feels part of a larger cultural shift: embracing youth and freedom of expression.”
After all, what better way is there to feel younger than by playing with toys?
Ricky Rain Frog Rubber Ring plush. Jellycat. jellycat.com
Gifts & Decorative Accessories proudly supports Heart on Main Street is the country’s only nonprofit organization dedicated specifically to helping independent retailers grow and thrive within their local communities. By providing free webinars, connections to resources, mentorships, and aid to retailers impacted by natural disasters, Heart on Main Street ensures that retailers have the tools to accomplish their goals, refine their businesses, and create the retail store of their dreams.
Consider making a donation to Heart on Main Street today to help our Main Street retailers thrive!
BEST OF BEAUTY
by Adelaide Elliott
Looking for new product that will boost sales in your store and appeal to new customers? Research shows your answer might be skin-deep — literally. According to Circana, U.S. prestige beauty industry sales revenue grew by 9 percent in the first quarter of 2024 when compared to the same period in 2023. Looking more closely at that industry, the skincare category was a standout, with dollar sales for popular skincare products increasing by 10 percent in the prestige channel year-over-year in the first quarter. On the mass market side of things, skincare was the fastest growing category in beauty sales as well. Make sure your store is stocked and ready to take advantage of this growing product category by adding a few of these skin-nourishing goodies that can exfoliate, moisturize, cleanse and protect consumers' skin.
Skincare
Staples These cleansers, balms, oils and more treat a variety of common skin concerns with powerful ingredients and formulas.
Everyday Moisturizing Face Cream. Somebody. shopsomebody.com
Olive Water Face & Eye Cleanser. Ode Olive Oil Beauty. mcevoyranch.com
Clear Up Microdart Patches. The Good Patch. thegoodpatch.com
Stunning Dawn Brightening Eye Cream. FarmHouse Fresh. farmhousefreshgoods.com
Nova Glitter Boss Lip Gloss. Unicorn Snot. unicornsnot.com Pink Grapefruit Lip Scrub. Poppy & Pout. poppyandpout.com
Creating Quality Confections For 116 Years
Using only the very finest ingredients, our fifth generation, family-owned Minnesota candy company is so dedicated to crafting candies and creating delicious caramels and chocolates that our original owners, Albert & Helen Abdallah, would be extremely proud. LET
~ wrapped caramels, boxed chocolates, single served, impulse items
~200+ hand-crafted, small batch, new and traditional confections
Every occasion is celebrated with candies, Fall, Holiday, Valentines, Easter, Patriotic
Sun
SPF 40 Daily Invisible Gel Sunscreen. Bask Suncare. basksuncare.com Sun Balm. Zizia Botanicals. ziziabotanicals.com
SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen. Larkly. larkly.com Orange Blossom Honey Moisturizing Sunscreen with SPF
IT’S TIME TO GET SPOOKY
by Amanda Erd
We may just now be starting to enjoy summer, but the spooky season is just around the corner. Second only to Christmas, Halloween is one of the top holidays consumers plan to buy home décor for this year, according to the 2024 Gift Book Consumer Survey. It spans all generations, too — 44 percent of Gen Z, 42 percent of millennials and 43 percent of both Gen X and baby boomers said they plan to purchase décor for Halloween this year. To help you get a jump start on all things creepy and spooky, we’ve gathered these festive products perfect for the Halloween season.
Jack O'Lantern Bowl Set. Primitives by Kathy. primitivesbykathy.com
Resin Ghosts and Jack O’Lantern. Boston International. bostoninternational.com
Ready or not, the gift and home industry is officially back in market season. Do you have your summer market “shopping list” ready to go? If not, have no fear — we have you covered. Our editors have been on the hunt for new product ahead of opening day and have compiled a few winning themes and products to help you get inspired. Covering everything from home fragrance and cocktail mixes to outdoor gear and holiday décor, these trending market debuts have a little something to offer everyone.
Get Outdoors
Stationery Stars
From notepads and pens to tiny thoughtful cards and pencils, there is a lot of stationery to see and love at markets.
Mint Little Notes Ceramic Holder with Bicycle Notes. E. Frances Paper. efrancespaper.com
Chez Gagné Notepads. Chez Gagné. chezgagne.com
Pukka Planet Green Vibes Pencils. Pukka Pads. pukkapadsnorthamerica.com
Aging Fiercely Since Birth Birthday Card. Age-Friendly Vibes. agefriendlyvibes.com
Keep the outdoor fun going even as the summer months end with the help of some new gear.
Inspired by the Greeting Card Association’s *Noted + Gifted expo and all the creative pieces on display there, our editors took a closer look at the power and place that stationery holds in people’s lives. A good greeting card or journal can provide comfort in times of need, bring smiles to a mundane day and even help people express complicated feelings. These editor-approved stationery finds spread joy in their own unique ways.
LENISE WILLIS
Angel Books and Notecards anneneilsonhome.com
For as long as I can remember, my mom has collected angels. So, when I saw Anne Neilson Home’s two books: Entertaining Angels with true stories and art inspired by divine encounters, and Angels in Our Midst, a coffee-tablestyle book filled with Bible verses and Anne Neilson’s iconic angel art, I knew they were the perfect gift for my mom. The smaller book details artist, writer and philanthropist Anne Neilson’s experiences with “God’s angels,” and is filled with prints of her angel paintings, stories and scriptures. The larger tome includes colorful illustrations of painted angels, landscapes and still-lifes by Neilson along with personal stories of what inspired them. Anne Neilson Home also sells sets of fine art notecards, which are equally stunning and perfect for writing thank-you cards and notes.
ADELAIDE ELLIOTT
Zodiac Greeting Card with Charm warmhuman.com
Do you know who and what a “warm human” is? According to Lisa Anderson — founder of the aromatherapy and gift brand Warm Human — a warm human is “someone who walks through the world with equal measures of strength and kindness” and “someone whose presence feels like a hug.” With messages that are funny, raunchy, uplifting and everything in between, Warm Human’s cards radiate positivity, and I was especially drawn to the brand’s Charmed Zodiac Greeting Cards. Each Charmed Zodiac Greeting Card comes with an envelope and an attached, removable mini card with information on both sides about the card’s zodiac sign. Each mini card also comes with a little something extra attached, a coordinating metal zodiac charm that the receiver can keep long after their birthday has passed.
AMANDA ERD
Funny Greeting Cards prettyalrightgoods.com
The millennial in me is full of sass. It’s a love language within my friend circles; if we can’t roast each other a little bit, how do we know we all care? In recent years, that sentiment has started to bleed into our gift giving. That’s what I love about the greeting cards offered by Pretty Alright Gifts. Whether it’s for a birthday, life event or just because, there’s a card with a little bit of attitude available. Each card is written, designed and printed on vintage letterpress machines and cut and folded by hand. They’re made of cotton paper and come with a kraft envelope.
The phrases give each of us a good laugh before opening to the inside where each card is blank for your own (heartfelt or not) message. The phrases are current — and accurate — for how we feel any given day.
ABDALLAH CANDIES
72% Dark Croquettes. NEW 72% dark chocolate croquettes are the perfect bite size piece of delicious dark indulgence. 952-891-4770
abdallahcandies.com # 401
BEEKMAN 1802
Hand Cream Table Top Display. Our top selling 2 oz. hand cream is available in a convenient tabletop display. wholesale@beekman1802.com beekman1802.com # 402
BIELY & SHOAF COLLECTION
Award-Winning Greeting Cards. The Biely & Shoaf Collection includes a wide selection of award-winning cards including Card of the Year. Made in the USA. Las Vegas: Road Runners Showroom C-1024. Dallas: Trade Mart, Road Runners Showroom #1521. 877-957-0940
www.bielyshoaf.com # 403
SHANNON MARTIN DESIGN
Every Picture Tells A Story. Send a smile with Shannon's awardwinning, best-selling cards featuring vintage family photos. Proudly made in the USA. Atlanta: Americasmart, Bldg. 2, #1500, Road Runners. Dallas Trade Mart: #1743, Road Runners. 877-957-0940
www.shannonmartindesign.com # 404
FARMHOUSE FRESH
Firm-tastic Eyes. A swift eye lift and you’re hooked! This intensive gel concentrate dramatically lifts, firms and de-puffs the look of the eye area in a cool, refreshing swipe!
FarmHouseFreshGoods.com
888-773-9626
# 405
LEANIN’ TREE
New Humor Cards. Leanin’ Tree humor cards are best-sellers year after year. Ask to see new designs in our May catalog. All cards are made in the USA.
800-525-0846 www.TradeLeaninTree.com
# 406
SAWDUST CITY LLC
New Signs Hitting Shelves Now! We're always creating new signs to keep your stock fresh and customers coming back! Fast shipping. Made in the USA.
800-528-6008
www.sawduscitywholesale.com # 407
STICKERS NORTHWEST
24-Pocket Countertop Stadium Display. Personalize your gear with stickers. Choose from 1000s of stock or customizable designs. New showroom! Find us in the Southern Link showroom in ATL , Roadrunners in DAL and VEGAS.
253-344-1236
www.stickersnorthwest.com # 408
Introducing our newest additions to Corinthian Bells® wind chimes. Each is thoughtfully engraved to uplift and inspire, and shares a heartfelt message for life’s tender moments: Celebrate a mother’s love, remember a lost friend, or share a welcome blessing with the harmonies of Corinthian Bells®.
AMERICAN MADE
Paige Homen and her husband, Chris, always had a passion for growing their own food. Living on a 90-acre ranch in California, the couple decided they wanted to create a business they could operate from their home property.
“There’s something so satisfying about growing your own food,” Homen said. “It tastes better, it’s less wasteful, and gardening itself has a meditative quality.”
The Savvy Spade aims to make gardening simple for both the newbies and those with seasoned green thumbs. The ready-made kits come with everything one needs to get started: burlap starter pots, heirloom non-GMO seeds from the U.S., laser-cut herb garden markers, compressed coco soil, organic soil amendment and fertilizers and step-by-step instructions. Their Cocktail Garden Starter Set even comes with a silicon round ice ball mold, perfect for keeping freshly garnished drinks cold.
Includes laser-cut herb garden markers
4
“We came up with the herb garden kit idea as an easy introduction to gardening,” Homen said of the gift sets that are all created from their home ranch. “It’s been a great product. Our customers really love the giftable packaging.”
The duo recently added a laser engraving machine to their arsenal of tools, allowing them to further expand their products to include items like slate plant markers, wooden laser-cut markers and engraved buckets.
“We really just want to spread the joys and functionality of growing your own food,” Homen said. “There are so many people who don’t think it’s possible, or that it’s an overwhelming endeavor to dive into. We’re here to tell them that it’s not.”
Cocktail Garden Starter Kit. The Savvy Spade. plankandsteel.com
SAVVY GARDENS
by Amanda Erd
Non-GMO seeds from the U.S.
burlap starter pots included
After consumers were caught protesting Shein and the fast-fashion business it stands for on April 22, Earth Day, there is an even sharper focus on sustainability, fairtrade practices and slow fashion, like that of WorldFinds’ handmade jewelry from recycled materials.
Woman-owned and woman-powered since its beginnings in 2001, WorldFinds sells wholesale handmade jewelry that is created by women artisans in India through fair-trade partnerships. The bold and colorful accessories are made from repurposed fabric, which not only helps to reduce the company’s footprint, but adds to the uniqueness of each item.
The company’s Kantha Milieu Peace Sign Earrings, for example, are made of tiny Kantha textile beads shaped into a peace symbol. Each pair is made from repurposed Sari textiles so that the colors and patterns are all one of a kind. The Kantha Paired Triangle Bracelet is made from repurposed Sari textiles that are wrapped around wood
beads carved from furniture scraps.
The company got its start when the founder, Kelly Weinberger, and her husband sold their Chicago loft in 1999 and set out on a backpacking trip across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Along the way, Weinberger was invited to visit a women’s cooperative to purchase some fair-trade gifts and was floored by the new-to-her practice. It was then she knew she wanted to start a business that promoted these female artisans and supported their communities. She registered the domain name for WorldFinds in a crowded cybercafe in Kathmandu, Nepal and the rest is history.
Kantha Pastille Necklace, Kantha Milieu Peace
Sign Earrings and Kantha Paired Triangle Bracelet. WorldFinds. wholesale.worldfinds.com
Fair trade
Made from recycled Sari textiles
SARI NOT SORRY by Lenise Willis
Handmade by women artisans in India
PRODUCT PROFILES
WARMIES ® BY INTELEX USA
MALONE
MELROSE INTERNATIONAL
RAGON HOUSE ARTE D’ITALIA IMPORTS, INC.
FARMHOUSE FRESH
PRODUCT PROFILES
DOUGLAS CO., INC.
PALMER JUMBO PIG (3603)
It’s time to pig out on fun with Palmer the Jumbo Pig by DOUGLAS. 25" long, this pig is ready for the biggest snuggles. With this pig you’re sure to squeal with delight.
| 800-992-9002
@ douglascuddletoy.com
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DOUGLAS CO., INC.
MAPLE JUMBO DOG (3602)
Maple the Jumbo Dog by DOUGLAS is now offering the biggest hugs around! Seated she stands at 23" tall. Adorned with her red bandana, this pup is ready for a snuggle party!
| 800-992-9002
@ douglascuddletoy.com
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CHARLIE BEARS
BEAR & ME
Premium English bear company debuts new range of plush soft toys, suitable from birth and machine washable! Discover 15 cuddly Bear & Me characters by Charlie Bears today.
| 561-328-9936
@ www.charliebears.com
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THE WIKKI STIX CO. WIKKI STIX TAKE ALONG FUN
A cute red case full of Wikki Stix and tons of activities for fun on the go! In the car, on a plane… or just to Grandma’s house!
| 800-869-4554 (602-870-9937)
@ www.wikkistix.com
# circle #302
Check out our newest Bugs and Rudolph Warmies! Warmies® are the number one selling brand of heatable stuffed animals and wellness gifts. Filled with real dried French lavender, Warmies are great stress and anxiety relievers, calming sleep aids, perfect for keeping you warm on a chilly night and are naturally weighted to provide a relaxing sensory experience. Simply warm in a microwave and enjoy hours of soothing warmth and aromatic comfort. Warmies are safe for, and loved by, all ages.
@ warmies.com
# circle #304
PRODUCT PROFILES
PRIMITIVES BY KATHY
LITTLE FARM BABY SOCK SET
Three pairs of colorful baby socks in a giftable set from our Baby & Kids Collection displaying charming scenes of farm animals on each pair.
| 866-295-2849
@ primitivesbykathy.com
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KURT S. ADLER, INC.
OPALESCENT BALLERINA ORNAMENTS, 2 ASSORTED
These Opalescent Ballerina Ornaments are a graceful and enchanting addition to your holiday decor that capture the elegance and beauty of ballet in two assorted designs. These exquisite ornaments feature opalescent ballerinas, each with their unique pose.
| 212-924-0900
@ www.kurtadler.com
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MARY MEYER
COTTON CANDY DINO
This dino is so soft and so sweet! Made with beautiful tie dyed marshmallow fabric in trendy pink. 13"/33cm.
| 800-365-4233
@ marymeyer.com
# circle #305
WARMIES ® BY INTELEX USA EVERYONE LOVES WARMIES®
Check out our newest Bugs and Rudolph Warmies! Warmies® are the number one selling brand of heatable stuffed animals and wellness gifts. Filled with real dried French lavender, Warmies are great stress and anxiety relievers, calming sleep aids, perfect for keeping you warm on a chilly night and are naturally weighted to provide a relaxing sensory experience. Simply warm in a microwave and enjoy hours of soothing warmth and aromatic comfort. Warmies are safe for, and loved by, all ages.
@ warmies.com
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C.R. GIBSON SIGNATURE
BIG BLUE OCEAN PUZZLES & PLAY POSTER
Explore the big blue ocean with our new shaped puzzles and play poster. 3+
| 800-243-6004
@ www.onecoast.com/crgibsonsignature
# circle #307
PRODUCT PROFILES
KURT S. ADLER, INC.
PINK NASHVILLE GIRL ORNAMENT
Kurt Adler’s charming and whimsical Pink Nashville Girl Ornament brings a delightful blend of country flair and holiday spirit to your tree. Dressed in a vibrant shade of pink, our cowgirl ornament is a unique and eyecatching addition to your holiday decor.
| 212-924-0900
@ www.kurtadler.com
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SINCERE SURROUNDINGS
CHRISTMAS
COLORFUL OVERLAP PORCH BOARD
Vibrant, weatherproof porch boards featuring a playful Merry Christmas design. Engineered for durability, proudly made in the USA.
| 712-472-2290
@ sinceresurroundings.com
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CROSSROADS ORIGINAL DESIGNS/BLOSSOM BUCKET
HOLY FAMILY FIGURINE
Celebrate the reason for the season with our four-inch high Holy Family Figurine. Created with muted tones of blue, tan and cream and featuring a charming lamb accent, it is one our most popular Christmas-themed items.
| 866-247-0156
@ www.crossroadsfamily.com
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OLD WORLD CHRISTMAS
BLOWN-GLASS ORNAMENTS
The premier collection of exclusive blownglass, hand-painted ornaments. Call us to become a dealer in your area.
| 800-962-7669
@ www.oldworldchristmas.com
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PEKING HANDICRAFT, INC.
I’VE BEEN GOOD(ISH) PILLOW
8"x12" throw pillow in embroidered needlepoint is sure to capture Santa’s attention! Available to ship for Holiday 2024. Dallas: Anne McGilvray & Company, World Trade Center, #270; Atlanta: Corporate Showroom, Building 1, Ste. 10-A-4 & Road Runners, Building 2, Ste. 1500; Las Vegas: Road Runners, Ste. C-1024.
| 650-871-3788
@ www.pkhc.com
# circle #314
PRODUCT PROFILES
DM MERCHANDISING
LEMON LAVENDER® HOME FIR THE HOLIDAYS FOAMING HAND SOAP
Super sudsy foaming hand soap with natural aloe and coconut oil. Four amazing holiday scents. Giftable bottles. Complimentary display.
| 800-548-6784
@ www.247dm.com
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SINCERE SURROUNDINGS
WATERCOLOR NATIVITY SCENE THIN RECTANGLE FRAME
Premium pine frame with MDF backdrop, showcasing a tranquil watercolor nativity scene. Versatile for display, proudly made in the USA.
| 712-472-2290
@ sinceresurroundings.com
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WILD HARE DESIGNS
LINENS WITH AN ATTITUDE
Call to place your everyday and holiday orders. We have great show specials! Atlanta: Bldg. 2, Floor 3, Booth 313 on center aisle. Dallas: WTC 12th Floor, 12-1216.
| 704-553-7382
@ www.wildharedesigns.net
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ROMAN
FONTANINI NATIVITIES
Made in Italy, Fontanini Nativities are prized for their lifelike sculpting, meticulous hand painting and attention to detail. Available in 3.5" to 50" collections.
| 800-729-7662
@ www.roman.com
@ www.retailers.roman.com
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SIMPATICO
64 OZ. GRANDE REINDEER HOBNAIL GLASS CANDLE
Red currants, cranberries collide with cedarwood, fraser fir and embers. Handpoured with a 100% natural soy and vegetable wax blend.
| 314-961-1990
@ khallstudio.com
# circle #319
PRODUCT PROFILES
PRIMITIVES BY KATHY NEW! BLUSH FALL & HARVEST DÉCOR
Inspired by the newest visions for fall, seasonal décor accentuating the tender reds and soft pinks of traditional autumn colors.
| 866-295-2849
@ primitivesbykathy.com
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PINE CREEK
SMITHFIELD RED/GREEN/ LINEN COLLECTION
Beautiful new coverlet with borders! Available in table runners, squares, throws, and placemats too! A Christmas favorite for sure—more colors available online.
| 570-558-6291
@ shoppinecreek.com
# circle #320
PINE CREEK PUMPKIN LUMINARIES
These recycled metal luminaries illuminate the night with a soft candle light. Large holds a 3.75"dia. candle; small holds a 2.75"dia candle.
| 570-558-6291
@ shoppinecreek.com
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PARK DESIGNS ® SCARECROW BRAIDED COLLECTION
A delightful fusion of rustic allure and seasonal playfulness that perfectly captures the essence of the harvest season. This nostalgic collection includes a placemat, trivet, and coaster set with an adorable painted scarecrow motif.
| 800-326-3382
@ www.parkdesigns.net
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RAGON HOUSE
OLIVE GREEN BIG MOUTH PUMPKINS
One of the most popular fall sellers, our big mouth pumpkins are now offered in new colors for 2024! Check these and other fall decor items out online!
| 877-874-3750
@ www.ragonhouse.com
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PRODUCT PROFILES
SPLIT-P ®
HAUNTED HOUSE METAL TEALIGHT HOLDER
Capture the essence of Halloween with this spooky little house. Candlelight dances through the windows and eerie motifs adorn the walls, making this a bewitching fusion of creepy charm and timeless craftsmanship.
Place your favorite candle in this timeless aged wood-style lantern and safely enjoy its warm glow at home.
| 801-771-8650
@ www.candlewarmers.com # circle #325
PINE CREEK
BLACK CAT LANTERN
Looking for something different and unique? Inspired by a vintage classic. This recycled metal spooky Cat Lantern will enhance any Harvest Décor.
| 570-558-6291
@ shoppinecreek.com
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PRIMITIVES BY KATHY NEW! NEON HALLOWEEN KITCHEN TOWELS
Playful hand illustrations in eye-catching neon colors that will bring a dying traditional Halloween palette back to life.
| 866-295-2849
@ primitivesbykathy.com
# circle #327
CELEBRATING PUMPKIN GHOST FIGURINE
Unleash the spirit of Halloween with our Celebrating Pumpkin Ghost—a delightful fusion of Halloween charm and spooky whimsy! This enchanting decor piece glows eerily with its on/off switch and is made of ceramic.
| 800-433-5054
@ ctwhomecollection.com
# circle #329
PRODUCT PROFILES
NOBLEWORKS INC.
HILARIOUS HALLOWEEN CARDS FROM NOBLEWORKS
NobleWorks offers hundreds of humorous Halloween cards to scare up a sheet-load of sales this season! All cards are printed on demand in the USA.
| 800-346-6253
@ www.nobleworksinc.com
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LEANIN’ TREE
WILLOW & IVY PRESS™
A new line of greeting cards designed with today’s colors and design trends, with authentic and meaningful sentiments. Launching June 3rd with 134 everyday designs.
| 800-525-0846
@ www.tradeleanintree.com
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LEANIN’ TREE
NEW HUMOR CARDS
Leanin’ Tree humor cards are bestsellers year after year. Ask to see new designs in our May catalog. All cards are made in the USA.
| 800-525-0846
@ www.tradeleanintree.com
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C.R. GIBSON SIGNATURE
N-SQUARED™ 3-IN-1 JOURNAL
Add a little sass to your journaling with our new 3-in-1 journal bright and bold collection.
| 800-243-6004
@ www.onecoast.com/crgibsonsignature
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AVANTI PRESS
AMERICA GREETING CARDS
The America collection features archival images with a little bit of history included on the back of every card.
| 800-228-2684
@ www.avantipress.com
# circle #332
PRODUCT PROFILES
OPEN ROAD BRANDS, LLC
NFL TEAM PLAYER CATALOG
Score big with our NFL team products! Ignite passion with game-changing decor designed for ALL TEAMS this season. Elevate your store now!
| 844-533-6890
@ www.openroadbrands.com
@ sales@orbrands.com
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HARVEST HOUSE PUBLISHERS
ADVENTURE AWAITS
Women seeking to fulfill their dreams will discover new tools and strategies for decision making, practical action steps for today, plus plenty of encouragement. Breathtaking photography of the Minocqua Northwoods creates a peaceful and compelling invitation to rest, rejuvenate, and give room for dreams to grow. 6 x 8 Hardcover, MSRP $24.99.
| 888-501-0160
@ faire.com/direct/harvesthousepublishers
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SIMPLY SOUTHERN
SIMPLY ROLL TOTE
The Simply Roll tote proves to be the perfect all-purpose bag for a bustling mom, college student or educator. Tailored for grocery trips or carrying essential items on the move, its four wheels offer effortless navigation, while the front pocket guarantees quick access to your essentials. Plus, it conveniently collapses for simple storage when not in use.
| 336-274-7889
@ simplysouthernwholesale.com
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WORLD BUYERS GIFT & HOME D é COR
BUTTERFLY WISHES!
Grant customer wishes with these beautiful gifts! See our countless butterfly selection and so much more! Register online for your wholesale account!
| 800-996-7531 or Chat Live on site!
@ www.worldbuyers.com
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ABOUT FACE DESIGNS
“GIVING A SHIT” STONE COASTERS
New cork-backed Stone Coasters from About Face Designs! More than 120 new designs, with a FREE display! Order from your rep, on Faire, or email service@aboutfacedesigns.com.
| 800-742-1766
@ wholesale.aboutfacedesigns.com
# circle #339
PRODUCT PROFILES
P. GRAHAM DUNN
PVC COASTERS
These modern, humor-filled coasters are crafted from PVC and include soft, cork backing. Designs feature bright colors, bold fonts, and a broad range of laughout-loud sentiments and phrases.
| 800-828-5260
@ wholesale.pgrahamdunn.com
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MODGY
LUMINARY LANTERNS
Modgy’s new latest luminaries featuring Mary Walcott Botanical Watercolors create a magical ambiance wherever you place them. A perfect blend of artistry and functionality, the intricate botanical illustrations come to life with every flicker of light.
| 216-382-1805
@ www.modgy.com
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DM MERCHANDISING
MODERN MONKEY® SWAG COLLAPSIBLE DOGGIE DISH
Hilarious packaging makes these collapsible silicone dog dishes an instant hit. Mini carabiner for easy on-the-go packing. Complimentary display.
| 800-548-6784
@ www.247dm.com
# circle #341
DM MERCHANDISING
TWO
LEFT FEET® ODOR OBLITERATOR
Funny bottle designs make this novelty bathroom spray the perfect gift. Includes six popular scents. Ships in a complimentary display.
| 800-548-6784
@ www.247dm.com
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ART BRAND STUDIOS
SUMMER BOUQUET –COASTER SET
Enhance any home décor with our stylish coasters. Set of 4, many designs available. Heat and waterresistant. 4" diameter. Perfect for safeguarding surfaces while adding a touch of elegance.
| 800-445-6413
@ www.artbrand.com
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PRODUCT PROFILES
SALISBURY, INC.
TALBOT MANOR BY SALISBURY OLD FASHIONED GIFT SET OF 2
Elevate your evening cocktail with our new old fashioned gift set—elegant with unparalleled craftsmanship! AmericasMart, Bldg. 2 919B; Dallas, TM 2400.
| 800-824-4708
@ salisburyinc.net
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ABOUT FACE DESIGNS
“BEFORE YOU MARRY SOMEONE”
COCKTAIL NAPKINS
New cocktail napkins from About Face Designs! 50 new designs, with a FREE display! Order from your rep, on Faire, or email service@aboutfacedesigns.com.
| 800-742-1766
@ wholesale.aboutfacedesigns.com
# circle #345
ULTRA ABSORBENT TOWELS & DISHCLOTHS
Absorbs 7x its own weight in liquid. Double-sided designs. Kind to surfaces. Earth friendly and made from recycled plastic bottles.
| 888-336-3226
@ demdacoretailers.com
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TABLECRAFT
NEW GOLD BAR KIT & WAVERLY COLLECTION™ MIXING GLASSES
Mix your cocktails in style with TableCraft’s beautiful new 5-piece Bar Kits and Waverly Collection™ Mixing Glasses.
| 800-835-1195
@ www.tablecrafthome.com
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ARTE D’ITALIA IMPORTS, INC.
MANGA BENE DISH TOWEL
This line of 100% Indian cotton aprons, napkins and flour-sack dishtowels is designed with an Italian theme. Each of our flour sack towels is absorbent, lint-free and a generous 20" x 30". They are machine washable and dry beautifully.
| 805-564-7655
@ www.arteditalia.com
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DEMDACO
PRODUCT PROFILES
WIND & WILLOW
COCKTAIL INSPIRED CHEESECAKE MIXES
Find these new No-Bake Cheesecake Flavors available to order with Cathy & Co. Trade Mart 1600.
| 888-427-3235
@ windandwillow.com
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CROSSROADS ORIGINAL DESIGNS/ COOPER’S MILL
COOPER’S MILL GOURMET DRESSINGS
Cooper’s Mill now offers a new line of mouth-watering gourmet dressings, including this trio of favorites: Tomato Bacon, Vidalia Onion Cucumber Dill and Apple Cider Vinaigrette. Check out all six delicious varieties.
| 866-247-0156
@ www.crossroadsfamily.com
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NORA FLEMING
ONE GIFT. EVERY OCCASION.
Elevate your pizza party with nora fleming! Select your favorite mini and base to make any celebration memorable.
| 630-231-2500
@ www.norafleming.com
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NORA FLEMING
ONE GIFT. EVERY OCCASION. Welcome home with nora fleming! Select your favorite mini and base, crafting an inviting space for everyday moments.
| 630-231-2500
@ www.norafleming.com
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ABOUT FACE DESIGNS
“DON’T MAKE MOMMY BE A BITCH” DINER MUG
New Diner Mugs from About Face Designs! More than 110 new designs, in stock now! Order from your rep, on Faire, or email service@ aboutfacedesigns.com.
| 800-742-1766
@ wholesale.aboutfacedesigns.com
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PRODUCT PROFILES
AUDREY’S – YOUR HEART’S DELIGHT
NEW! FROM AUDREY’S
Our Botanical Carved Terracotta Vase features a carved leaf pattern design and a tan tone that will coordinate nicely with a variety of room colors and leafy greens. Perfect for an end table vignette, or table top center piece – this vase is a statement piece. See us in Atlanta in Showroom 655657, Building 2 or our virtual release on our website. There is always something new at Audrey’s!
| 717-865-6524
@ www.yourheartsdelight.com
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QUEENSGROVE PILLOW
(A86156284)
Hand crafted using a blend of embroidery and embellishment techniques, this decorative pillow captures the spirit of an untamed meadow, accentuated by delicate fringe adorning its sides, and finished with a hidden zipper closure.
| 888-889-9868
@ www.cnfei.com
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AUDREY’S – YOUR HEART’S DELIGHT
NEW! FROM AUDREY’S
Our lovely Brass Colored Floral Trinket Boxes are a versatile and elegant storage solution. The highlight of these accent boxes is the 3D florals on the lids. Whether a cherished necklace or a pair of earrings, these boxes will store them in an elegant way. See us in Atlanta in Showroom 655657, Building 2 or our virtual release on our website. There is always something new at Audrey’s!
| 717-865-6524
@ www.yourheartsdelight.com
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P. GRAHAM DUNN BOOK BLOCKS
Vintage artwork overlaid a natural, woodgrain veneer paired with a carved faux crease giving the appearance of a book’s binding. Ten book covers available.
| 800-828-5260
@ wholesale.pgrahamdunn.com
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C&F HOME
HOME JUTE BRAIDED RUG (C44434024)
Crafted of 100% jute, this braided rug is the perfect eco-friendly addition to any home, extending a warm welcome to all who enter.
| 888-889-9868
@ www.cnfei.com
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CAROL & FRANK
PRODUCT PROFILES
P. GRAHAM DUNN BIRDS OF A FEATHER COLLECTION
Featuring a variety of bird species and florals articulately displayed against a light, linen backdrop and paired with scripture verses.
| 800-828-5260
@ wholesale.pgrahamdunn.com
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VHC BRANDS
PIP VINESTAR BATH TOWEL SET OF 2 27X54
Introducing the Pip Vinestar Collection’s Cotton Bath Towels, the perfect addition to your primitive country decor for both bathroom and kitchen use.
| 417-334-3099
@ wholesale.vhcbrands.com
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MELROSE INTERNATIONAL GOLD PALM FROND TRAY
Featuring realistic veins and a unique halfmesh design, bring the beach inside with this golden palm frond tray. Item #96202.
| 800-282-2144
@ melroseintl.com
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MUSHROOM SPROUTS BOOKENDS
These bookends bring a touch of woodland charm to your shelves. Whether gracing your study, nursery, or living room, these bookends not only keep your favorite reads neatly organized but also serve as delightful pieces of art that spark conversation. Made from cast iron.
| 800-433-5054
@ ctwhomecollection.com
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ROMAN
TURTLE GARDEN FOUNTAIN PUDGY PAL
New from our Pudgy Pal Collection come three fountains – turtle, frog and owl. Batteries not included. 11"H.
| 800-729-7662
@ www.roman.com
@ www.retailers.roman.com
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PRODUCT PROFILES
HOME MALONE
Waterproof, fade resistant, made in USA. Dallas: Temps WTC 121119 & Atlanta: Bldg. 2 Suite 613B..
| 504-459-2085
@ www.homemalonewholesale.com
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LED TREES
Bring festive cheer to any space with LED trees, in 4 sizes ranging from 60" to 15.5". These trees are perfect for tables, mantels or entryways.
| 800-621-8350
@ www.tagltd.com
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MELROSE INTERNATIONAL LED BUTTERFLY ORBS
A set of three illuminated globes feature delicate florals and intricate butterflies to present the joy and elegance of nature. Item #96696.
| 800-282-2144
@ melroseintl.com
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BALL WHITE TULIPS DOOR HANGER
VENTO MEDUSA LARGE BOWL
From the Atelier Collection of handmade metalware, this bowl fits perfectly with the brand’s aesthetic, and today’s trends for décor and entertaining.
| 888-265-1069
@ beatrizballwholesale.markettime.com
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WOOD AND ROPE CANDLE WARMER LANTERN
The unique design of this lantern candle warmer lets you experience the cozy glow of your favorite scented candle, safely warmed from inside the lantern.
| 801-771-8650
@ www.candlewarmers.com
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BEATRIZ
CANDLE WARMERS ETC.
PRODUCT PROFILES
CANDLE WARMERS ETC.
NATURAL LINEN DIFFUSER
Wrapped in real, high-quality linen, this diffuser provides a luxury look and feel that complements any surrounding decor.
| 801-771-8650
@ www.candlewarmers.com
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SERENE HOUSE USA INC.
VAPOR CERAMIC ULTRASONIC DIFFUSER
New colors available. The Vapor Diffuser runs 4-hour continuously/8-hour intermittently. Optional 60, 90, 120-minute timer and 7 LED lights.
| 856-673-4117
@ www.serenehouseusa.com
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SERENE HOUSE USA INC.
ASPEN PASSIVE SCENT DIFFUSER
Set it and forget it! The Aspen Passive Scent Diffuser delicately perfumes your space until the scent gradually fades away.
| 856-673-4117
CANDLE WARMERS ETC.
WILDFLOWERS FLIP DISH
WAX WARMER
With its beautiful wild blooms motif against a crisp white background, this easy-to-use, eye-catching wax warmer allows for easy removal of wax melts.
| 801-771-8650
@ www.candlewarmers.com
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@ www.serenehouseusa.com
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SERENE HOUSE USA INC.
CROCHET WHITE 90 CERAMIC ULTRASONIC DIFFUSER
Crochet White Ceramic Ultrasonic Diffuser runs 4-hour continuously/8hour intermittently. Optional 60, 90, 120-minute timer and 7 LED lights.
| 856-673-4117
@ www.serenehouseusa.com
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PRODUCT PROFILES
TRAPP FRAGRANCES
TRAPP 7 OZ. SIGNATURE POURED CANDLES
Experience a burst of summer with each light of Trapp’s richly-scented candles, designed to uplift and invigorate.
Enjoy the best of summer’s sweetness with our 64-ounce Sliced Watermelon jar candle from the Farmer’s Market Collection. Let the fragrance of juicy ripe watermelon fill your home with fruity goodness. See our website to explore all 72 scents.
| 866-247-0156
@ www.crossroadsfamily.com
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TAG
FRAGRANCE
VOTIVE CANDLES
Our mini votives let you explore our fragrance candle program. Perfect samplers, these delightful candles bring luxury to any space. 3 favorites plus 2 new scents to discover.
| 800-621-8350
@ www.tagltd.com
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MICHEL DESIGN WORKS
WILD HYDRANGEA VOTIVE GIFT SET
Decorated with pillowy blooms in peaceful pastels, this votive gift set brings unbridled beauty and the fresh scent of wild hydrangea blossoms to any space.
| 888-326-5678
@ stonewallwholesale.com
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VILLAGE
CANDLE
COASTAL DREAMS LUMINARY BOWL
Seaside serenity is just a match strike away with this calming candle, which boasts an intricate label design featuring clear panels that illuminate and glow.
| 888-326-5678
@ stonewallwholesale.com
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PRODUCT PROFILES
DAILY DEFENSE FACE LOTION SPF32
Dermatologist tested, non-greasy and lightweight formula make this SFP32 face lotion perfect for every day use.
| 855-354-4438
@ www.dukecannonwholesale.com
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BEEKMAN 1802
NEW GLACIAL MINT & EUCALYPTUS HAND CREAM
Our new sensitive skin-safe fragrance is like a spa day for tired skin and provides instant relief for dry, cracked hands.
@ wholesale@beekman1802.com
@ beekman1802.com
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CANNON BALM 140° LIP BALM
This offensively large lip balm features SPF30 protection and a 140° melting point makes this the perfect summer item.
| 855-354-4438
@ www.dukecannonwholesale.com
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ASSORTED MINI HAND CREAM SET (7PCS)
7-piece Mini Hand Cream Set made with botanicals, 5% shea butter and colloidal oatmeal. Made in the USA.
| 314-961-1990
@ www.khallstudio.com
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FARMHOUSE FRESH
THREE
MILK BOTANICAL SKINCARE
Three botanical milks + wrinkle-targeting peptides make this collection the most re-ordered facial trio customers buy again and again.
| 888-773-9626
@ farmhousefreshgoods.com
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DUKE CANNON SUPPLY CO.
BARR CO.
DUKE CANNON SUPPLY CO.
PRODUCT PROFILES
DM MERCHANDISING TWO LEFT FEET® SOCKS
Reimagined for maximum sales, this 36-design assortment features fun, stretchy, comfy socks in two unisex sizes. Carded with j-hook.
| 800-548-6784
@ www.247dm.com
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LIZAS USA LP
TIVOLA BIG, GOLD - IVORY CREAM DELITE
This luxury ring retails for just $65. Comes with a gift box, extra margin and there are coordinating pendants and earrings. Item code 651867.
| 678-756-2817
@ www.qudousa.com
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snoozies! ®
PET LOVERS PAW PRINT
The perfect snoozies!® for the pet lover! New padded insole added for ultimate comfort. Classic snoozies!® body lined with our exclusive pom pom™ cozy sherpa.
| 252-650-7000 Ext. 206 or 210
@ www.snoozies.com
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I HEART EYEWEAR
CHEYENNE EYEGLASS CHAIN
Beautiful coral and turquoise beaded eyeglass chain is sure to get your customer’s attention. Chain features a lobster claw clasp for easy conversion to a necklace, 26" total length..
| 800-247-7667
@ www.ihearteyewear.com
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ALEXA’S ANGELS BY ROMAN
SIMPLE TRUTH NECKLACES AND BRACELETS
“Faith over Fear,” “Choose Joy” or “Blessed.” 6 styles. Set includes display and gift bags.
| 800-729-7662
@ www.roman.com
@ www.retailers.roman.com
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PRODUCT PROFILES
PEEPERS BY PEEPERSPECS
ATHENS – AVAILABLE IN NO CORRECTION BLUE LIGHT AND READER STRENGTHS
All eyes are on you in a pair of Athens. These funky square frames make a style statement anywhere you go, featuring eclectic matte color and pattern combinations.
| 219-872-4413
@ wholesale.peepers.com
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TOTALEE GIFT
BOOT CORDUROY BAG
Chic, corduroy cosmetic bag featuring elegant gold boot embroidery, complete with a convenient wristlet strap for onthe-go glam!
| 800-449-9903
@ www.transpacbrands.com/totaleegift # circle #391
FUNATIC
“HANG IN THERE, IT GETS WORSE” CAT SOCKS
New! A great gift for the cat lover who’s going through some shit - Order thru your rep, on Faire, or email service@funatic.com.
| 855-386-2842
@ funatic.com/wholesale
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OOOH YEAH SOCKS
SOCK IT UP SOCKS
Summer time vibes! Bring in the summer with these lovely Bamboo socks.
| 909-345-2688
@ www.ooohyeah.com
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ROAD BRAND
VINTAGE STYLE STATE NOSTALGIA TRUCKER HATS
Inspired by the adventure from the road! Quality vintage-era trucker hats in a variety of color styles. Come Find Your State! New introduction featuring “College Towns of the Old Road.” Variety of colors, with adjustable snap fit for all. Inquire about customization! Atlanta Showroom Enchanted Moments - Building 2 #1400.
| 925-360-1789
@ www.oldroadbrand.com
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OLD
COMING SOON
JULY
• Summer Markets Issue
• Holiday Product Spotlight
SEPTEMBER
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
• Made in America
AUGUST
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
• Best of Show – Product Highlights from the Summer Selling Season
OCTOBER THE GIFT BOOK
GDA’s
show previews
Summer Markets
June – July 2024
Dallas
Total Home & Gift Market
June 19-25
Dallas Market Center
dallasmarketcenter.com
Show hours: 8:30 a.m – 6 p.m.
Highlights:
• Dallas will include a record number of expanding gift and home showrooms debuting this summer, along with the largest summer edition of temps at the show in a decade.
• Relocations including design resources together in a new location on the 11th floor, an expanded gift selection on the 12th floor, the addition of tabletop to Trade Mart 1 Pavilion, more fashion accessories on WTC 13, and the return of Go Texan together with Immediate Goods in Market Hall.
Events:
Wednesday, June 19
Showroom Bucks on 7 - Total Home & Gift
WTC World Trade Center - 7th Floor
8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Visit participating showrooms for a chance to win Showroom Bucks to be redeemed in the 7th floor showrooms. The drawing will take place on Friday at 3 p.m.
Wednesday, June 19
Retailer Excellence Awards Gala
Dallas Union Station Grand Hall
6:30 p.m.
Gifts & Decorative Accessories has been celebrating retail excellence since 1951 with its Retailer Excellence Awards, and the tradition will continue with our 2024 award ceremony! The prestigious program highlights 24 independent retail finalists across eight niche categories, with the winners being announced on stage during the gala. Tickets required for entry. Visit retailerexcellenceawards.com for tickets and more information.
Thursday, June 20
Tour the Temps with Russ Jones
WTC 1 – Atrium Fountain
9:30 a.m.
Whether you are a first-time buyer in Dallas or just wanting to learn more about the temps, join Russ Jones, award-winning sales representative, ex-Broadway star, and former NYC retailer on a tour through Dallas Market Center’s Total Home & Gift
Temps. Discover resources, learn how to shop the temps, and ask an expert your questions on this fun and informative tour.
Saturday, June 22
Taste of 12 at 12: Gourmet Category & Wine Tasting 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.
WTC Temps – WTC 12
Join in on a fun way to discover everything the Gourmet Temps have to offer. Savor the delicacies of the available vendors and pair them with a complimentary selection of red and white wines.
Atlanta
Atlanta Market
July 16-22
AmericasMart Atlanta atlantamarket.com
Show hours: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Highlights:
• Atlanta Market will offer up both new and expanded exhibitors in its collection of more than 700 sales agencies and branded showrooms. Gift sourcing will be available across 19 floors throughout Buildings 1, 2 and 3 with everything from general gift to specialized gift including tabletop, housewares, gourmet, seasonal and more.
• Newly consolidated gift and home temporaries across seven categories: High Design, Home, Kitchen + Table, Cash & Carry, Makers Hub, Gift and Fashion Accessories neighborhoods –across eight floors in Buildings 2 and 3.
Events:
Thursday, July 18
Collaborations, Partnerships and Licenses
Building 3, Floor 2 Atrium 1 p.m.
Join Jill Zarin and Ally Shapiro as they explore the importance of collaborations and partnerships to expand brand reach and create new opportunities.
Bountiful Cooking with Agatha Achindu
Building 2, Floor 2, Jura Gourmet Demonstration Kitchen 2:30 p.m.
Join Chef Agatha Achindu, nutritionist and founder of baby food brand Yummy Spoonfuls, as she makes her specialty coconut jollof rice and an “everyday” kale salad. Complimentary book signing to follow.
Market Calendar
ST. LOUIS, MO.
ASTRA Marketplace & Academy America’s Center Convention Complex astrotoy.org
ATLANTA
Atlanta Apparel
AmericasMart atlanta-apparel.com
MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.
Minneapolis Gift, Home, Apparel & Accessory Show
Minneapolis Mart mplsmart.com
DALLAS
Apparel & Accessories Market
Dallas Market Center dallasmarketcenter.com
DALLAS
Lightovation
Dallas Market Center dallasmarketcenter.com
DALLAS
Total Home & Gift Market
Dallas Market Center dallasmarketcenter.com
NEW YORK, N.Y.
NASFT Fancy Food & Confection Show
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center fancyfoodshow.com
LEBANON, PENN.
Buyer’s Cash & Carry
Lebanon Valley Exposition Center marketsquareshows.com
ATLANTA
Atlanta Market
AmericasMart americasmart.com
Note: In most cases, shows are open to the trade only. Dates listed are provided by show managements. Before traveling to an event, however, please verify the particulars with the organizer by visiting the website. 2-5 4-7 9-11 19-22 19-25 23-25 11-14
ATLANTA
Casual Market Atlanta
AmericasMart americasmart.com
MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.
Minneapolis Gift, Home, Apparel & Accessories Show
