GDA September 2025

Special Section: Market trend recap stocking stuffers worthy of stocking

Personality sells

Functional gifts that endlessly give through uniquely hand illustrated homemade recipes that will inspire generosity and appreciation with every use.

LOOK AT WHAT'S TRENDING

We scoured all the major markets across the country in a whirlwind of a summer. These are the trends that caught our eyes when it was all said and done.

Consumers love adding a touch of personal flair to their everyday essentials. Lucky for retailers, these small touches, like stickers watch charms and more, are also great ways to upsell a customer.

48 UPSELLING WITH ACCESSORIES 53 TASTES FROM AROUND THE WORLD 22 A

Whether your customers are travel lovers wanting to relive memories or homebodies who want to experience different flavors, these gourmet goodies bring the spice.

57 PERFECT FOR STOCKINGS 63 UNIVERSAL APPEAL

While everyone is busy buying presents to stash under the tree this holiday season, don't forget to stock smaller items ideal for stuffing into stockings, too!

Whether your customers are looking for a sensible gift for a friend or a unique gift for a mere acquaintance, these gifts are both budget-friendly and easy to gift for a wide range of recipients.

on the cover

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Personality Sells

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Special Section: Market Trend Recap

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Stocking Stuffers Worthy of Stocking

On the Cover: Plush Bag Charms. Mon Ami. wholesale.monami-designs.com

DEPARTMENTS

EDITOR IN CHIEF Lenise Willis 336.605.3817 | lwillis@giftsanddec.com

MANAGING EDITOR Amanda Erd | 773.570.4187 | aerd@bridgetowermedia.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Pamela Brill, Linda Cahan, Dr. Brent Ridge, Angela Schmook, Warren Shoulberg, Jaime Zepeda

RESEARCH EDITOR Joanne Friedrick

SENIOR GROUP PUBLISHER, EVP CREATIVE SERVICES Liz Irwin

MANAGING DIRECTOR OF HOME FURNISHINGS DIVISION 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 Corey Edwards| cedwards@studiobtm.com

DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Ariel Perez

SENIOR DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL OPERATIONS Chris Schultz

DIGITAL OPERATIONS MANAGER Randy Melton

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND CREATIVE SERVICES Melanie Bingham

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER John Coughlan

SEE IT FIRST IN DALLAS

Discover what’s new at the first market of the year, where trends begin.

Dallas Total Home & Gift Market

JANUARY 7 - 13, 2026 | TEMPS 7 - 10

Talk of the Summer

Usually our after-market recap includes some of our favorite finds and any burgeoning product trends we noticed at the shows, and though those notes are in this issue, we can’t ignore the real talk of the summer: tariffs.

Trump’s tariff hikes and the subsequent shipping and production challenges they’ve caused in the gift and home industry hung heavy over this summer’s markets. In fact, contributing columnist Warren Shoulberg said tariff talk “dominated most conversations for market goers,” after Atlanta Market, noting: “The signs were apparent that the tariff era is here and in full bloom.” Shoulberg reported similar notions about Las Vegas Market.

Most vendors at both Atlanta Market and Las Vegas Market had instituted pricing surcharges ranging from 5 to 15 percent.

While retailers grappled with the increase in costs, vendors expressed concerns over whether or not they could get the products produced, much less shipped, in a timely manner.

“Trump’s tariff hikes and the subsequent shipping and production challenges they’ve caused in the gift and home industry hung heavy over this summer’s markets.”

“The shutdown of factories in China and elsewhere in Asia earlier this year when the first round of tariffs — as high as 145 percent in China — meant that there was a gap in merchandise coming into the U.S., coinciding with the time when many orders are placed for the critical fourth quarter,” Shoulberg wrote in his Las Vegas Market recap.

While both retailers and vendors are still strategizing how to navigate the tariff disruptions, one thing is for certain: Retailers still need trending goods for their shelves. According to what we saw at market, retailers would do well to continue to stock items that are bright, colorful and fit with the popular maximalism trend, as well as bow-themed gifts and apparel. Check out our retail feature, “Trending at Summer Markets,” for more details on the latest trends and products that fit them.

New this summer, the game of Mahjong was all the rage and inspired home accents, games and even ornaments. This trend is a curious one considering all of the latest drama with China and the country's tariffs, but perhaps customers are looking for more global influences to elevate their purchases.

For globally inspired gourmet gifts, check out this issue’s feature, “Global Goodies.” While the cost of traveling — and fear of flying — might have many consumers staying close to home, they can still explore the globe with worldly gifts.

Here’s hoping higher tariffs don’t cause your store too much disruption and you’re able to stock plenty of these goodies for the fourth quarter. If not, you’ll need to think creatively and remerchandise whatever you have to catch shoppers’ attention. Happy adapting!

Lenise Willis Editor in Chief

Las Vegas Market Brought 'Creative Spark' to New Buyers, Brands

With its summer edition, Las Vegas Market proved itself to be a “vital platform for commerce and community” in the gift, home furnishings, lifestyle and bedding industries.

Running July 27-31 at World Market Center Las Vegas, the summer show offered buyers the chance to source more than 3,500 product lines across permanent showrooms and temporary exhibits.

“Las Vegas Market plays a critical role in shaping how our industry connects, grows and adapts,” said Jon Pertchik, Andmore CEO. “It’s not just about sourcing; it’s about creating the conditions for innovation, partnership and long-term success.

“We decided to come to Las Vegas because we have friends in the industry encouraging us to try it — and they were right.”

—

Kylie Deleeuw, Kaxi

At Andmore, we’re investing in brands, experiences and relationships that help our customers thrive and ensure this marketplace remains essential to the future of retail and design.”

Throughout the market, showrooms recounted a week of quality order writing across categories. In the gift and home decor space, Heidi Haneckow, HomArt sales manager, noted, “While overall traffic felt more relaxed, Las Vegas Market was a great success for us this season. We had strong order writing,

meaningful conversations and plenty of connection with both new and familiar faces. Las Vegas always brings a unique energy and creative spark that makes it such an inspiring place to show.”

The Gift & Home Temporaries in the Expo at World Market Center Las Vegas housed 450-plus brands for buyers to discover.

“This is our first time at Las Vegas Market, and it’s been incredible,” said Kylie Deleeuw, assistant wholesale director for hair accessories brand Kaxi. “Every single sale we’ve made this week has been with a new account, which is huge for our brand. We decided to come to Las Vegas because we have friends in the industry encouraging us to try it — and they were right. The energy, the layout and the people all feel so open and welcoming, and it’s been such a great opportunity to grow.”

This summer also marked the debut of Noted: The Greeting Card Expo at Las Vegas Market. The expo, previously held in San Francisco, had a dedicated section within the temporary exhibits in its Vegas debut, where it featured 50 Greeting Card Association member brands.

“It’s been exciting to connect with new buyers who may not have discovered us at a traditional stationery show,” said Talia Bromstad, owner and operator of Bromstad Printing Co. “People shopping for gifts and home goods have stumbled upon our section and are genuinely delighted to find an area dedicated to products they hadn’t considered before.”

The next edition of Las Vegas Market is scheduled for Jan. 25-29, 2026.

(Photo courtesy of Andmore)

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Atlanta B2-925B

Sherwin-Williams Unveils 2026 Global Color Trends

The Sherwin-Williams Co. has released its 2026 Colormix Trend Forecast Anthology Volume Two, its second edition in its biennial color trend series.

The report focuses on the evolution of four specific color families expected to shape the future of design, and the curated palettes were developed with both residential and commercial design in mind.

This year’s forecast features 48 curated hues, organized by color families. Unlike the 2024 Colormix Trend Forecast Anthology Volume One, the 2026 edition shifts emphasis away from traditional styles and trend storytelling.

“With Anthology Volume Two, we're continuing to evolve how we tell the story of color," said Emily Kantz, color marketing manager at Sherwin-Williams. "This forecast goes beyond aesthetic trends to explore the emotional impact and practical beauty of color families that stand the test of time. These palettes are designed to inspire creativity while offering designers, professionals and homeowners grounded, usable color direction across every space."

“This forecast goes beyond aesthetic trends to explore the emotional impact and practical beauty of color families that stand the test of time.”

— Emily Kantz, Sherwin-Williams

This year, the four palettes include:

Frosted Tints: Hazy lavenders, gauzy blues, enchanted aquamarines and refreshing greens offer a chill, a hush and a deliberate dose of near-weightless color. Milky pastels are making their return.

Sunbaked Hues: Kindling a warmth that recalls midcentury design with glimmers of yellow, earthen mauve and pink sandstone. The reds and purples of the past make way for buttery yellows and intensely fiery hues.

Restorative Darks: The selection of deep hues from past forecasts features tones such as shadowed gold and coppery red, dark plum, alluring burgundy, and nocturnal blacks and blues.

Foundational Neutrals: Clean white, light taupe, silvery gray and crisp khaki are balanced with inky blue-black, toasted spice and the deep shades of a distant storm in this mix of modern neutrals.

All 48 hues included in the 2026 Colormix Trend Forecast Anthology Volume Two are available at Sherwin-Williams stores nationwide and online.

Andmore to Help Fill Gap of Canceled 2026 ToyFest

Toy retailers who are worried about the cancellation of the 2026 ToyFest show can still stock their shelves after the holiday season, thanks to a new toy show in Las Vegas.

Toy sales rep firms with permanent showrooms are joining forces to offer a sales event in Las Vegas in 2026: Las Vegas Toy Market, which will run March 9-13, 2026, at the World Market Center. Historically, many retailers have relied on a firstquarter sales event just after New York Toy Fair to replenish their inventory for the first half of the year. Toy retailers and vendors expressed their disappointment after it was announced that the 2026 ToyFest show wouldn't take place while organizers focus on the 2027 event.

“March has traditionally been an important buying cycle for specialty toy and gift retailers,” Carl Buchbinder, principal of Toyology, said. “After the announcement that ToyFest would not take place in 2026, we knew we had to continue the tradition our customers have enjoyed for years with showrooms in Las Vegas and Seattle.”

Longtime rep firms Toyology, Diverse Marketing, Enchanted

Moments, Anne McGilvray & Co., Kathleen Milne Collection and R. Biz Associates will open their showrooms in coordination with Las Vegas Market manager Andmore.

“This is a time for us all to come together and create something the industry needs,” said Wes Hardin, CEO and third-generation principal of Diverse Marketing with specialty toy, specialty gift and key accounts divisions. “It’s been a real pleasure to collaborate with other rep firms to rise together and meet the moment.” Diverse has showrooms in Dallas, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, Seattle and Los Angeles.

Tony Davis, Enchanted Moments partner, agreed Las Vegas Toy Market will be a powerful buying show for specialty retailers. The company has large permanent Atlanta and Las Vegas showrooms and also exhibits at NY Now and Toy Fair. “We are gratified to meet the needs of our specialty retail partners to create this show for them,” Davis said.

According to a press release about Las Vegas Toy Market, additional rep firms are in talks to join, and details for the show’s events are being planned and will be shared soon.

President Donald Trump has extended the suspension of higher tariffs on Chinese imports for another 90 days, keeping the U.S. levy at 30 percent, while China agreed to keep its rate at 10 percent.

The decision, announced Aug. 11, comes as fresh inflation data shows prices ticking up for some consumer goods.

The tariffs were set to snap back to April levels on Aug. 12, when the U.S. levied 145 percent duties on Chinese goods and China retaliated with 125 percent on U.S. exports, but Trump signed an executive order hours before the deadline to extend the pause until mid-November.

The latest executive order stated that the suspension of certain country-specific tariffs on goods from China will continue until Nov. 10. Citing “large and persistent annual U.S. goods trade deficits” as an “unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and economy of the United States,” the order extends the 90-day pause first implemented in May, following negotiations with Beijing over what the president has called a lack of trade reciprocity.

Trump Delays China Tariff Hike as Inflation Ticks Higher Trump Doubles Tariffs on Imports From India

The United States will impose a new 25 percent tariff on all imports from India, with the White House citing continued purchases of Russian oil and military equipment as an ongoing national security threat. The move, announced Aug. 6 in an executive order signed by President Trump, brings India’s total effective tariff rate to 50 percent.

The only other country to face tariffs at that level is Brazil, which the administration says it is pressuring due to an ongoing criminal case against former president Jair Bolsonaro.

The action falls under the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and expands upon measures initially implemented to counter Russian aggression in Ukraine.

“The Government of India is currently directly or indirectly importing Russian Federation oil,” Trump stated in the order. “To deal with the national emergency described in Executive Order 14066, I determine that it is necessary and appropriate to impose an additional ad valorem duty on imports of articles of India.”

At the time of this issue’s printing, the new tariff was slated to go into effect 21 days after the order’s signing — on Aug. 27 — unless goods were already in transit to the U.S. before that time. It will be applied on top of any existing duties or fees unless an

The extension follows the latest round of U.S.-China trade talks in Stockholm in late July. Both nations first agreed to scale back tariffs in May after meeting in Geneva, with U.S. duties dropping to 30 percent and China’s to 10 percent.

The decision underscores the unpredictability of the administration’s tariff strategy, which has left many, particularly importers and exporters, having to adapt to sudden changes in rates and timelines, creating uncertainty in supply chains and pricing strategies. Meanwhile, new data from the Labor Department, reported by USA Today, shows that the tariffs already in place are starting to ripple through some consumer prices.

For now, the extended tariff pause gives businesses a temporary reprieve, although the White House has not ruled out resuming higher rates if China fails to meet U.S. demands on trade practices, technology transfers and market access.

Editor’s note: At time of press, this article reflected accurate, updated information. As things constantly change, please visit giftsanddec.com for the latest.

exemption applies under U.S. trade law.

The administration’s decision to target India comes as part of a broader campaign to penalize nations that continue trade ties with Russia, especially in energy. According to the order, indirect imports — those routed through intermediaries or third countries — will also fall under scrutiny.

The President’s proclamation is part of a larger set of policies designed to “more effectively deal with the national emergency” stemming from Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and its global support network. India’s procurement of Russian crude and defense systems has raised concerns in Washington for months.

This latest action underscores Trump’s willingness to use broad trade tools to pursue geopolitical goals. Under the order, additional nations may face similar penalties if found to be importing Russian oil. The Department of Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative are tasked with monitoring and recommending further action.

The administration left open the possibility of reversing the tariffs if India alters its behavior.

Editor’s note: At time of press, this article reflected accurate, updated information. As things constantly change, please visit giftsanddec.com for the latest.

Peggable

Shoppe Object Leadership Shifts as Renata Bokalo Steps Up

The most recent edition of Shoppe Object was the first under its new leadership as Renata Bokalo takes the helm as show director from show founder Jesse James.

“It’s great to have gotten to a place where that transition can take place, and we are both excited by all the things on the horizon.”

— Jesse James, president of Shoppe Object

Bokalo was on the founding team of Shoppe Object, which debuted in 2018, and has worked with James since 2010 when she joined his wholesale rep firm, Aesthetic Movement.

James, meanwhile, remains with the Shoppe brand in a broader capacity as president of Shoppe Object, focusing on creative, experiential and innovation direction for parent company Andmore.

Bokalo was there for all the decision-making as Shoppe

Object was being created and developed, James said. “From the beginning, Renata and I have hand-selected the brands, and Renata really has, for a long time, been overseeing that. She’s been Shoppe Object’s sales director from the start and doing a lot of things related to the show director role for a long time.”

“I have lots of experience in the trade show world. I kind of grew up there,” Bokalo said. She owned a gift and décor store called Auto in the meatpacking district in the 1990s.

“I walked every single trade show and was on the jury for Accent on Design. Auto got a lot of press because a lot of editors lived in our neighborhood, and we were one of the first to do online sales.”

The store closed after the financial crisis, and Bokalo joined Aesthetic Movement. She has been James’ right-hand for years.

“My whole career has culminated in this [transition], because I’ve worked on all sides of the coin,” she said. “I’ve been a retailer, I’ve worked with buyers, I know makers and designers and brands, and all of that has come together in this position. I have a lot of background in this industry, so it's very exciting.”

Andmore Sets New Executive Team, Brings in New CFO

Andmore has appointed Robert Klein as chief financial officer. Klein joins the company from Postal Realty Trust, where he served as chief financial officer since 2021.

“Our leadership is a team of proven leaders representing a blend of incredible wisdom and experience from within the industries we serve as well as imported from external industries, which creates a competitive advantage as we prepare to deliver a higher level of service to those we serve,” said Jonathan Pertchik, Andmore CEO. “Rob has a track record of sharpening operations, enhancing performance and guiding companies through transformative phases of growth.”

Prior to Postal Realty Trust, Klein was a managing partner and head of capital markets at real estate investment firm Monday Properties Services. He also worked as a managing director in the Real Estate Advisory Group at Evercore. Prior to that, he held various positions at MJC Associates, Reckson Associates, Goldman Sachs and Bankers Trust.

Andmore also made changes in streamlining divisions to drive efficiencies and improve execution across the business. To oversee the new operational structure, it has reconstituted its executive team:

• Scott Eckman as president, leasing and marketing,

overseeing key business functions, including sales, leasing and marketing.

• Greg Avitabile as president, operations, responsible for operations across 20 million square foot real estate portfolios, including markets, events and trade shows.

• Landon Williams as executive vice president, chief technology officer, responsible for Andmore’s technology strategy across operations, including incorporating technology across event and showroom spaces.

• Katie Potter as executive vice president, chief strategy officer and general counsel, overseeing all legal affairs and leads development and execution of the company’s strategic plan, including spearheading growth and acquisition initiatives.

• Amory Wooden as executive vice president, chief marketing officer, responsible for all marketing and communications for the Andmore brands and corporate entity.

• Ximena Juncosa as executive vice president, chief human resources officer, responsible for cultivating a performance culture, accelerating talent growth, as well as all other aspects of the human resources team.

Rich and Teri Michka have always had strong ties to their hometown of Stuart, Neb. They know all the ins and outs of the community and knew that Bloomin Daisies was one of the only spots in town for gift and floral. So, when the shop went up for sale in 2023, the couple didn’t hesitate.

SEE MORE PAGE 21

“ “Our local community is very small, and the shop has always had a strong hometown support.”

Bloomin Daisies Floral & Gifts

by Amanda Erd

Rich and Teri Michka have always had strong ties to the town of Stuart, Neb. Being their hometown, they know all the ins and outs of the community and knew that Bloomin Daisies was one of the only spots in town for gift and floral. So, when the shop went up for sale in 2023, the couple didn’t hesitate.

“At the time of purchasing [the store], we were empty nesters,” Rich said. “Purchasing the store was a change for both of us.”

With a new project at hand, Rich retired from his job with the state of Nebraska and took on the store full time. Teri continued her role as a sales rep in the gift industry for a national agency while popping into the shop in between her required travels. The Michkas were confident in the store’s resiliency because, as mentioned before, they know their town.

“Our local community is very small, and the shop has always had a strong hometown support,” Rich said. And so far, they’ve been right.

It’s been two years since they purchased Bloomin Daisies and things are continuing to blossom. Sales for 2025 so far have already surpassed 2024’s numbers and the addition of new offerings will only drive things more. The shop recently added a bulk chocolate candy case and a new flower cooler. They also plan to host more special events and offer extended hours to better serve customers. And with the threat of tariffs hanging over every store across the country, Rich said they are focusing on homegrown brands.

“A lot of our brands sold in the store are Nebraska-owned and made,” he said. “And USA brands are a priority going forward for us.”

The Bloomin Family is mostly a family affair. Though the couple does the majority of the work themselves, they hire extra hands during the holidays and special events. And when their kids are home visiting, they pitch in, too. It’s a part of the business that’s important to the Michkas — feeling like a family. And they extend that feeling to their customers.

“We want everyone who comes in to shop to be treated just like they are one of our family,” he said. “Let us treat you like you’re the Head of our Bloomin Family. [That’s] one of our core business objectives. Every employee or potential employee must be able to see that vision.”

Though floral is a major component of the business, the shop also carries a list of other categories including home décor, stationery, gourmet, apparel and gifts. The variety helps bring out one of Rich’s favorite parts about owning a store.

“Every day we work with fresh flowers and create beauty and brighten peoples’ days,” he said.

As for his other favorite part? “The rewarding efforts when customers love what we offer and tell us how much they enjoy shopping at Bloomin Daisies.”

Trending at Summer Markets

by Amanda Erd and Lenise Willis

Tariff talks continue, the economy remains in flux and yet business must go on! Summer markets certainly felt a little different this year, with conversations over tariff woes and other economic worries filling the halls. But new and exciting products and a couple of fresh trends were, once again, a highlight of the season.

From a new family-game-night favorite to happy holiday cardinals, several trends brightened up the showrooms and are sure to catch customers’ attention, too.

Mahjong Mania

As consumers look for ways to elevate at-home festivities and game nights, the tile-based game of Mahjong has been put in the spotlight. With its increased popularity, gifts and accessories inspired by the Chinese game are on the rise, too.

and

twdwholesale.com

Scalloped coasters, Mahjong racks

tile-inspired trays. Tara Wilson Designs.

Mahjong Tile Ornament and Mahjong Set Ornament. Cody Foster & Co. codyfoster.com

Decorative Mahjong tiles in zipper cases. Oh My Mahjong. ohmymahjong.com

Hook pillow collection. Peking Handicraft. pkhc.com

Mahjong Mat. Oh My Mahjong. ohmymahjong.com

Mahjong Game Tile Storage Pouch and “Mahj Queen” glasses. Two’s Company. twoscompany.com

Cheerful Cardinals

While not a new holiday icon, bright-red cardinals are a hot design this holiday season, according to several vendors showing at this summer’s markets. The eye-catching birds have even fluttered into other non-holiday categories as this trend takes flight.

Light-up Cardinal Sitter. Mud Pie. wholesale.mudpie.com

transpacbrands.com

Cardinal Glass Plate. Mud Pie. wholesale.mudpie.com Cardinal tea light holder. Roman. roman.com

Collection of cardinal-themed bags, stationery and gifts. Rifle Paper Co. riflepaperco.com

Rustic cardinal ornaments. Transpac.

Cardinal Trio Journal set. Anne Neilson. anneneilsonhomewholesale.com

Tie it with a Bow

Pink bow mug

candle holder. Burton + Burton. burtonandburton.com

Maximum Color

Bold

The back wall of any store is a major focal point. This design at Melior in Lake Oswego, Ore., was created with a custom neon sign combined with wine bottles and good quality faux foliage. It works! (Photo by Linda Cahan)

FEEL-GOOD SHOPPING

A fun mix of merchandise that’s also helping the environment makes for an enjoyable shopping experience that packs a punch.

by Linda Cahan

I was walking from my car to a card shop when I saw some balloons waving at me from a sidewalk sandwich sign. Balloons always mean something new or special, so I took a small detour and came upon the gift shop Melior. When I walked in, I experienced a moment of joy — the shop was lovely, the merchandise was varied, and it all felt upscale and chic in a “sustainable refillery” way. I wandered around while the owner worked with other customers. That cost me! I’ve been intrigued with ways to forgo unnecessary plastic containers and decided to buy a glass bottle (plus a rubber slip-on base) to fill with dish soap for the kitchen sink. I also treated myself to a bamboo-encased mineral blush, just for fun.

Calley Riley, the owner and creator of Melior, opened it in May 2024. Burned out from a long career as a dental assistant and business manager, she became attracted to the idea of a refill shop. The ones she visited seemed too utilitarian and imposing to her and she felt intimidated by their starkness. She set out to create a more approachable and friendly environment. Her hope was and is to help people make small sustainable changes in their buying

habits rather than drastic “throw out everything and start fresh” directives. By starting with one refillable item, customers may then try another and, over time, find they use far less throwaway plastic containers.

To keep customers coming back and not reverting to convenient grocery or big-box shopping habits, she also offers a good selection of gift items that are more fun than dish soap. Her bestsellers in the gift category are a ton of dryer balls — some with cute animal faces — and locally made candles that burn clean.

Riley’s biggest challenges were going from a friend-filled work environment to working alone and becoming more extroverted to adapt to greeting new people as they come into her shop. Like many readers of this column, she discovered a peer group of women entrepreneurs that exchange ideas and happily joined a community of new friends.

“Feel good shopping” is a mix of fun merchandise combined with knowing you’re doing something for our environment that is helpful in the short and long term. Each person in their own way can make a difference!

Colorful balloons are part of the store’s marketing budget and work beautifully to attract attention to the new shop. (Photo by Linda Cahan)

Live plants are interspersed with natural wood fixtures and buildups. The green shelving unit interacts with the green plants to anchor the wall. (Photo by Linda Cahan)

Smart signage explains the store concept and creates an attractive wall display. The use of natural wood countertops works perfectly with the entire store concept. Plus, the warm color of the wood adds a softness to the look of the shop. (Photo by Linda Cahan)

Storeowner Calley Riley shows how to fill the dish soap bottle from the huge container. Part of her work is teaching customers how to “use” the store and feel comfortable refilling their containers. They can bring their own clean containers or buy new glass ones in the store. (Photo by Linda Cahan)

Repetitive images with angles always create an interesting merchandising display. These wood toothbrushes with colorful bristles become more important when lined up with their angles perfectly aligned. (Photo by Linda Cahan)

Handmade yarn wall hangings soften the walls above the merchandise presentations. The dusty lavender wood case fixture brings in another color from nature. (Photo by Linda Cahan)

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Well, I was there, I saw it all in person ... and I still don’t quite understand exactly what happened. If, like me, you went to some or all (heaven forbid) of the shows and markets along the gift and home circuit this summer, you might be having the same look of confusion on your face. SEE MORE PAGE 32

“

“We all know just about everyone who makes, sells or buys gift and home products is worried about what’s going on with tariffs.”

The Summer Shows’ Disconnect

Well, I was there, I saw it all in person ... and I still don’t quite understand exactly what happened.

If, like me, you went to some or all (heaven forbid) of the shows and markets along the gift and home circuit this summer, you might be having the same look of confusion on your face. There are so many contradictory things going on in the industry right now it’s maddening to try to sort it all out.

But I’ll give it a shot...

On the one hand, the shows were — and this is a compliment — not terrible. We all know the summer versions of Dallas, Atlanta, Las Vegas and New York are always reduced compared to the winter series. But market traffic, as measured by the highly scientific metrics of lines at the Starbucks and elevator waits, were pretty much in line with previous summers.

“The shift hasn’t hit the fan yet is what I’m thinking. Those higher — potentially much higher — prices on things the industry’s consumers buy haven’t hit yet.”

And we all know just about everyone who makes, sells or buys gift and home products is worried about what’s going on with tariffs and potentially interrupted supply chains that could cause shortages for the critically important fourth quarter and holiday season. Yet, you wouldn’t necessarily see it on the faces and order iPads of those hitting the shows. Maybe buying was a little more cautious and retailers were checking their credit card balances to see what they could afford, but there was no widespread panic or shutdown in the overall scheme of things.

And we know that prices were up, with most lines doing surcharges usually in the five to 15 percent range with a couple of outliers on both ends of that spectrum. That translates into selling prices on the retail sales floor of as much as one-third higher than pre-tariff and that’s a lot for products up and down the food chain. Yet, I heard more people complaining about the price of eggs and a Chick-Fil-A sandwich than what they were being asked to fork over for next season’s goods. They weren’t exactly shrugging their shoulders, but they weren’t crying on their tablets either.

So, do you have any reasonable explanation for this disconnect of epic proportions? I’m kind of stymied and while I’m often clueless I usually have a reasonable handle on things like this.

So, because you didn’t ask, here’s my take. Right now, the economy is doing pretty good. Retail sales, consumer confidence, the stock market — they’re all generally in positive territory. Employment remains strong and the price of most people’s homes continues to increase, even if they’re locked into them a little bit more than they would like.

The shift hasn’t hit the fan yet is what I’m thinking. Those higher — potentially much higher — prices on things the industry’s consumers buy haven’t hit yet. Any shortages that will be reflected in retailers simply having fewer goods — and perhaps the wrong goods — for the holiday selling season are still in the theoretical stage.

All that bad news that keeps showing up on people’s social media news feeds? Call it tariff fatigue. Call it “there-they-goagain-speak.” Call it talk-talk-talk. Call it what you want...but that doesn’t mean it’s not going to be true at some point.

In the meantime, I just don’t get it.

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.

Learning What’s New in Educational Toys

School’s back in session, but that doesn’t mean that the opportunity for play gets packed away with the pool floats and sunscreen. Retailers can ward off a post-summer sales slump by highlighting educational toys and games that cleverly disguise learning as fun, all year long.

At Beyond the Blackboard’s two stores in the metro Denver area, social-emotional tools, such as cooperative games from Thames & Kosmos and Buffalo Games, are driving sales, as are toys with a Montessori-style focus. “Families continue to seek out screen-free play for their kiddos, reflecting a culture that is starting to understand the need to balance tech literacy with traditional play,” said Carah Killian, chief play officer.

Start Them Young

Toys that bolster early learning skills encourage little ones to explore the world around them. This September, PlanToys will release its Montessori-Inspired Collection, which includes the Baby Tissue Box for ages five months and up. Inspired by an everyday household item, this developmental toy promotes fine motor skills as babies learn to grasp and pull colorful cloth pieces. The best part? No messy cleanup!

Toddlers who love to talk will “shore”ly want to get their hands on the Hape Magic Music Conch. At the press of a button, they can listen to music when they hold this toy shell up to their ear, or record their voices to create their own tunes.

If you haven’t heard of Ms. Rachel (and frankly, who hasn’t?), then say hello to the beloved YouTube sensation/preschool teacher who entertains little ones with songs and stories. Spin Master is expanding its toy line this fall with the Ms. Rachel First Words Talking Flash Cards. As kids insert each card into the base, they’ll hear her pronounce each word aloud, helping to introduce, reinforce and expand their vocabulary.

Picture book fans can experience illustrations through the World of Eric Carle Discover & Learn Scavenger Hunt from MindWare. This exploration is packaged with a mini magnifying glass and three small drawstring bags, containing challenge cards that invite players to hunt for colors, numbers, shapes and textures.

Preschoolers who relish counting everything in sight at the grocery store can get their fix with Numberblocks Add It Up Mini Market Figure Playset from Hand2Mind. Little ones can learn color and number recognition as they count coins to purchase snacks in a pint-sized pretend shop.

Once kids start grade school, toys and games that expose them to math, science and more complex subjects help set the stage for learning. Number Hunter, a board game for ages 5 and up from Clever Fox Play, puts players’ addition and subtraction skills to the test, as players solve challenging riddles in a race to the finish.

For those who can’t get enough of handheld games, Smartivity encourages them to build their own. The Mini Pinball comes with step-by-step instructions for ages 6 and up, so they can take their DIY arcade with them wherever they go.

Also big on building is the ever-expanding line of Connetix magnetic tile kits, including the 70-Piece PRO Constructor Set. Designed with magnets that fully rotate and click into place, these vivid pieces allow engineers-in-the-making to adopt a sky’s-the-limit attitude.

And for those who are already missing their beach vacation comes the Robotic Jellyfish Nightlight Kit from Thames & Kosmos. Kids can create unique color combinations and light patterns and even change the direction of the jellyfish’s tentacles.

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.

World of Eric Carle Discover & Learn Scavenger Hunt. MindWare. mindware.orientaltrading.com

Why ‘Soft’ Skills Deliver the Hardest Numbers

“Honestly, this job would be a breeze if it weren’t for the people part.”

A regional sales director said that after recounting missed targets, two resignations and a turf war between product and marketing. The room laughed — tired laughter, the kind that comes when you recognize a hard truth. Plans obey Gantt charts; people do not. People bring worries, ambitions and moods into every meeting. And that unpredictability? It’s both your biggest headache and your greatest leverage point.

“Teams … routinely perform 10 to 20 percent better under managers who systematically build trust, clarity and growth.”

Most companies react in two ways: tighten the screws with dashboards and compliance modules or slap on another “culture initiative” poster. Neither works because they ignore the real issue: Managers lack a reliable method for turning human potential into performance. They know better collaboration and faster problem-solving would change everything — they just don’t have a repeatable path to get there.

The costs hide in plain sight: a quarter delayed because two teams argue definitions; a launch postponed while stakeholders haggle; high performers leave quietly, and replacing one costs up to two times their salary once you add recruitment, lost productivity and training. Those numbers swallow budgets — even R&D (Research and Development.) Yet our P&Ls (Profit & Loss) list “labor market pressure,” not “managerial unpreparedness.”

Here’s what the data shows: identical teams — same pay,

same tools — routinely perform 10 to 20 percent better under managers who systematically build trust, clarity and growth. They get ideas, overtime and cost-saving fixes that no Six Sigma project ever uncovered. Meanwhile, teams led by unchecked command-and-control churn at the first better offer.

Managing people is a discipline, not a personality trait. No one would let an accountant close the books without training. Yet we promote top performers into supervision and hand them a policy handbook. Then we wonder why they learn on the job — at everyone else’s expense.

Consider risk management: a $10 million capital project gets pilots, approvals and contingency plans. But your manager controls a similar sum annually in wages and benefits, with zero oversight of how that investment is activated. If managerial interactions dampen initiative by just 10 percent, you quietly forfeit a million dollars — every year.

Some companies get it. They assign internal coaches. They pair new supervisors with veterans. They treat one-on-ones as the core production unit of engagement. Others run workshops that translate research into daily habits. Our Management Fundamentals Bootcamp condenses two decades of field data into “observe, reflect, act, repeat” — a framework you can apply tomorrow morning. Believe me, because I’m the one delivering the bootcamp: It evolves managers overnight.

The very thing leaders wish away is the same thing that makes an operation exceptional. Invite it in. Give it direction. And suddenly, the breeze you crave isn’t because the people part vanished — it’s because it finally has a path to follow.

Want to learn how our bootcamp can level up your managers? Reach out to me at jzepeda@bestcompaniesgroup.com to set up a time to talk.

Jaime Raul Zepeda is EVP, principal consultant for Best Companies Group and COLOR Magazine, part of BridgeTower Media. Best Companies Group can analyze your organization’s health, team dynamics and leadership’s effectiveness. It has helped more than 10,000 companies understand and improve their workplace using data-driven strategies. Email Zepeda at jzepeda@bestcompaniesgroup.com.

Bringing More Than a Catalog

OneCoast sales rep Terri Denton brings her formula for retail success to every client.

In the gift industry, longevity isn’t just about experience; it’s about staying fresh, relevant and creative. With more than three decades in the business, Terri Denton, sales representative for OneCoast serving the Austin and Central Texas region, has turned that philosophy into a career-defining strength. This year, her dedication, talent and results earned her the Retailer Excellence Award for Sales Representative of the Year in the Central/Midwest region, an honor that recognizes not only her sales achievements but the profound impact she has on her customers’ success.

Denton is known for walking into store visits prepared — and not just with a catalog. She brings a folder of merchandising tips, custom product designs, visual display ideas and a willingness to roll up her sleeves and get creative.

“I love being creative with my customers and helping them with new ways to merchandise their product,” she said. “Recently, my boss at OneCoast showed me how to use ChatGPT to create cute display ideas for my stores. Now I’m having a blast using it to help showcase their products in fun, new ways.”

Her visits often turn into brainstorming sessions. Together with her customers, she’ll develop event themes, plan giftswith-purchase promotions and craft ideas to engage shoppers long after they’ve walked through the door.

“I enjoy meeting new people and establishing long-term relationships with my customers. In some ways, I feel like they are part of my family,” she said.

For Denton, organization isn’t just a good habit; it’s her lifeline. “I think organization is key and a system helps,” she said. “You must be organized in this business to make sure you are seeing all of your customers in a buying cycle. I have various calendars, both electronic and paper. I reach out to customers daily, and if I’m in their town, I’ll stop by for a quick inventory check or to show them a hot-selling sample.”

She pairs that organization with resilience.

“Another quality I think helps in this business is not to take rejection personally,” Denton said. “You don’t know what kind of day your customer has been having, and there is always next time. I try to kill them with kindness in my daily rounds.”

A TYPICAL DAY

Denton’s day often starts before many retailers even open their doors.

“I usually start my day at 7:30 a.m. because sometimes you can get a lot of work done before 8 a.m., and you can also catch

“Recently, my boss at OneCoast showed me how to use ChatGPT to create cute display ideas for my stores. Now I’m having a blast using it to help showcase their products in fun, new ways.”

those early risers in their stores when they aren’t quite so busy,” she said about how she plans her day.

Starting early also gives her time to prepare — a key component of being a sales rep. Before heading out, she reviews her customers’ previous orders and any outstanding back orders. She organizes her samples by category, allowing her to pull exactly what a customer needs in the moment. She maps out her route for efficiency and always has something ready to show to a new lead in town.

During her 30 years in the gift industry, Denton has witnessed tremendous change. From handwriting orders to rapidly changing technology, she’s learned to adapt to what’s new and available.

“Technology has made a huge contribution to our jobs, and I’ve learned to embrace it and use it daily,” she said. “ChatGPT is amazing, and I’m having fun playing with it.”

Her approach to sales has also evolved, too, as she’s gained three decades worth of confidence in her role. “When I first started cold calling, I was all over the map and very scattershot,” Denton said. “Now I’m more confident and organized, and I know how to guide the customer to products that will sell in their store. You get to a point in your career where you can have business conversations with your customers, and they appreciate your honesty. My customers trust my eye and my advice.”

That trust is what truly sets Denton apart and what the REA Sales Rep Award celebrates. Retailers know that when she walks in, she’s there to add value, not just take orders. In an era when technology is reshaping how retailers buy, market and connect with customers, Denton is proof that the human elements of creativity, connection and genuine care will always be at the heart of great salesmanship.

Angela Schmook is the vice president of operations and marketing at Road Runners, and the co-founder of Reps Are Local Too, an organization dedicated to supporting independent sales representatives. With a passion for strengthening relationships between reps, retailers and brands, Schmook advocates for the vital role local sales reps play in helping businesses thrive.

Q & A

THE VALUE OF YOUR STORY

With endless options, how do you know which products to stock and which ones to ignore? The answer lies in a well-established brand.

Like so many of the people reading this, I just spent a significant amount of time at the shows in Atlanta and Las Vegas. Also like many of you, I am overwhelmed by both inspiration from all of the creativity on display and also by the sheer volume of “stuff.” Of course, inspiration and stuff are the two primary reasons we were all there to begin with!

We were doing panel discussions, podcasts and meet & greets around our new book. The most common question we were asked during our interviews and meetings was about deciding what to stock and what to ignore, which I’ll discuss here.

Q: There are so many great things here, how do I decide what my customer is going to want or need?

A: Obviously, most of the people asking this question were retailers, but I want to take my answer to this in a different direction and speak to the audience who really needs to pay attention to this question as intently as I did.

This answer is for brand owners and product manufacturers.

As someone who has built several multi-million-dollar brands, the largest being Beekman 1802, I want to talk about the importance of brand. This is especially relevant in time periods when consumer confidence is eroding. It’s how you stand out in a world in which your buyers are overwhelmed by stuff. However, in economically challenging times, investment in “brand” is often curtailed by many business owners. This is an appropriate action if you are looking at the lifespan of your company over the next couple of years (i.e. you are approaching retirement and/or considering shuttering your business), but if you are still looking

to build or grow your business for five or more years, it’s probably more important to invest in “brand” now more than ever.

But what’s the ROI of brand? This is what every B2B business owner thinks when staring down expenses, managing cash flow and deciding where to invest. Brand can feel like “fluff” because it is hard to fit it onto an Excel spreadsheet or your Quickbooks program. To understand the value of brand, let’s first make a distinction: brand and branding are not the same.

Brand is why you matter. It’s trust, credibility, perception and ultimately preference. Branding is how you build that perception: tone of voice, design, website, behavior, experience. Brand is what customers think and feel about your business. Branding is the lever you pull to make people think and feel the right things.

To demonstrate that investing in brand has an ROI, I reviewed some recent research from McKinsey, Google, Edelman and LinkedIn, and the findings were insightful:

If you invest 10 percent more than your competitor on brand, you will gain about 1 percent additional market share. When your competitors are not investing in brand is the best time for you to do it. It’s cheaper. You are buying your customer’s mental availability, and by doing this you can outpace your competition. Be memorable not just visible.

Eighty percent of B2B buyers say they will pay more for a trusted brand. It’s tempting to try to compete on price which can be a race to the bottom. Trust has value and building trust lets you charge more. Price on perceived value not the product itself.

A strong brand can lower your Customer Acquisition Cost

(CAC) by as much as 50 percent. Branded search terms convert better and cost less. Brand makes your funnel more efficient. It provides you the opportunity to spend less to convince the customer to purchase.

It’s possible to increase your customer lifetime value (LTV) by over 2,000 percent. In one case, every $1 spent on brand returned $24 in customer value. LTV is a vital KPI because for every 5 percent increase in retention you’ll see 25–95 percent profit lift. Brand trust equals loyalty. Loyalty equals recurring revenue and stability.

Sixty-four percent of B2B buyers say all suppliers look the same. Did you have this feeling at any point when you were walking the show halls? If your brand doesn’t stand out, you’re just another line item. Differentiation lives in perception, not product. If you don’t differentiate, you are merely duping. And dupes compete on price.

There is 23 percent higher revenue for brand-consistent companies. Branding is a multiplier. Consistency builds trust. Trust drives conversion. This is sales.

Seventy-eight percent of buyers choose from brands they already know. If they haven’t seen you before, you’re out, no matter how good your product is. The more your brand is present the more it’s trusted. When the economy is shaky, trust keeps you as the chosen one. Strong brands recover faster from downturns. Your brand is your margin of safety.

A strong brand also brings in talent not just clients. You will spend up to 43 percent less on the cost per hire looking for key hires. Companies with a strong brand have 28 percent lower employee turnover. People stay. Culture stabilizes. Institutional knowledge compounds. This leads to increased productivity and profitability. When your brand is clear to your employees, your teams are more aligned.

So, if you are hearing your customer say they don’t know what to buy, it’s your prime opportunity. If you don’t seize the opportunity to invest in brand, you’ll end up paying elsewhere: Higher CAC; lower retention; price pressure; slower hires; lost deals; weaker teams. Brand isn’t just a logo or a vibe, it’s long-term equity. The ROI of branding compounds quietly, then all at once.

Dr. Brent Ridge is the co-founder of Beekman 1802, the award-winning skin health brand based on two key ingredients: goat milk and kindness. With his partner, Josh Kilmer-Purcell, he is the author of five books, including the latest, "G.O.A.T. Wisdom," which talks about their business journey building Beekman 1802. The book is available wherever you buy your books, online or in-store.

At 95%, FRAGRANCE is the top attribute behind the decision to buy a candle, followed by PRICE/VALUE at 75%.

Source: Strategic Insights, 2024 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study

BY THE NUMBERS CANDLES

Candles are a lucrative category in the gift and home industry. In fact, candles are by far the most popular home fragrance product consumers plan to purchase this year across all generations, according to the 2025 Gift Book Consumer Survey. They're most popular with younger generations, with 85 percent of Gen Z and 86 percent of millennials planning to buy at least one candle this year. To meet new demands, candle fragrances have evolved, becoming much more complex and functional. Scents that help con sumers reduce stress, sleep better or increase focus are popular, and according to St atista, there is also an increased demand for unique and handcrafted scents found in artisanal candles. The explosion in candle varieties, functions, fragrances and visual appeal is keeping this category in the bestselling column.

Candle fragrances consumers are most likely to buy in the next 12 months

How much consumers expect to pay for a home fragrance product

Source: Strategic Insights, 2024 Gifts & Decorative Accessories Study

Source: National Candle Association

Source:

Dollars By Region 2024 vs. 2025

How non-top 100 retailer regional receivables in the U.S. compare year over year: July

GAIN AR Statistics show July 2025 overall receivables of non-top 100 retailers are up only 1.03 percent compared to July 2024. With minimal changes realized in many of the regions from year to year, the Northeast stood out with a 9.1 percent increase and the West with an 11.2 percent decrease in receivables. The July 2025 receivables of top 100 retailers are down 9.1 percent compared to July 2024 and the July 2025 current receivables of top 100 retailers are down 16.6 percent for the same period. The average days delinquent July 2025 have increased 2.2 days from last July. With receivables up only slightly in the non-top 100 retailers and down in the top 100 retailers, this may be a sign of entities getting themselves in a better position prior to the holiday rush. This chart is created from data provided by the Gift Associates Interchange Network (GAIN).

$3,50,00,000

$3,00,00,000

$2,50,00,000

$2,00,00,000

July 2024

July 2025

Source: GAIN

$1,00,00,000

$50,00,000

GET TECHNICAL

Plush animals are more than just easy gifts for kids. The rise of “kidults” has greatly increased the demand for soft, cuddly creatures, especially when it comes to special sets and collectibles.

SEE MORE PAGE 46

“ “With more consumer versatility, stocking plush could prove to be a positive endeavor for your store — not to mention the cuteness they can add to a display.”

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“After more than 50 years in business, we have learned how to design products that bring out the very best in each craft. It’s not just about finding something beautiful. It is about pushing boundaries.”

— Two’s Company

Gifts & Decorative Accessories Magazine

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Plush animals are more than just easy gifts for kids. The rise of “kidults” has greatly increased the demand for soft, cuddly creatures, especially when it comes to special sets and collectibles. In fact, according to the 2025 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 45 percent of consumers who buy toys and games for adults said they would purchase a plush as a gift.

With more consumer versatility, stocking plush could prove to be a positive endeavor for your store — not to mention the cuteness they can add to a display! Check out examples from these retailers on incorporating squishable friends into your store.

TRENDING GIFTS

CANDLES | BATH & BODY | FASHION | HOME | GIFTABLES | GOURMET | HOLIDAY | STATIONERY | KIDS

Holds 30 ounces

Sweat-free design

COWBOY CRAZE

by Amanda Erd

Keeps drinks hot or cold for hours

Cowboy chic has been a leading trend for the better part of a year. It’s transcending categories, taking over everything from fashion to home décor to giftables.

Part of this comes from the resurgence of western motifs in mainstream media thanks to shows and movies like “Yellowstone” and “American Primeval.”

Couple that with the power of social media — #CowboyChic has nearly 40 million related posts on TikTok alone — and you’ve got yourself a full-blown viral trend.

What started as a more on-the-nose trend with warm, earthy tones and terracotta is evolving into more unique subtrends — including Pink Cowboy. The Pink Cowboy trend is a purely feminine take on the classic

cowboy chic style, mixing some traditional aspects like fringe with pops of pink and rhinestones.

Kerusso is tackling this trend head on with its new Walk by Faith Stainless Steel Mug.

The mug is a perfect example of how Kerusso blends faith-based gifts with modern trends as it is adorned with pink cowboy boots and lasso-like text. Both stylish and functional, it also holds up to 30 ounces of the consumer’s favorite drink while fitting into most car cup holders and sporting an easy-to-grab handle, making it perfect for school, work or travel.

Walk by Faith Stainless Steel Mug. Kerusso. kerusso.com

Your Journey Watch Band Charms. Demdaco. demdaco.com

BEDECKED AND

Bedazzled

Customization and practicality are driving the latest designs in accessories for personal items. Here’s how gift makers are accessorizing everyday essentials.

by Pamela Brill

“Signature style” isn’t just a distinct form of self-expression — it’s a method for adding personality to giftable items that serve a purpose and look good while doing it.

According to the 2025 Gift Book Consumer Survey, 69 percent of Gen Zers and 55 percent of millennials consider personalization a significant factor when shopping for the perfect present. And since this trend applies to personal items in all categories — from water bottles and watches to phone cases and shoes — retailers have ample opportunity to enhance their product displays with stickers, charms and other add-ons that can elevate any item from ordinary to extraordinary.

“Customers want pieces that do more than look good; they’re choosing items that add function, simplify their routines and layer it into everyday life.”

— Janie Cooke, Oventure co-founder

Take, for example, the Inkerie Charge & Carry Phone Lanyard from Kikkerland Design, a savvy accessory that discreetly incorporates a charging cable. “It’s useful and stylish without being overdesigned — a balance our customers really

appreciate,” said product sales and marketing manager Laura Kellner.

As more customers look for ways to show off their unique personalities through their everyday essentials, gift makers are jumping on the proverbial bandwagon and coming to market with must-have accessories.

Stuck on You

What was once an item largely reserved for classrooms and playground trading has matured into a popular pick for adorning water bottles and laptops for consumers of all ages.

“People want to express who they are and show how they are feeling with stickers,” said Chelsea Olson, sales coordinator for Stickers Northwest.

The added allure of these accessories is their imperviousness to the economic rollercoaster, as well as their affordable price points. Because they are typically sold in multiples, retailers can depend on strong sell-through, especially during back-to-school and the holidays. Popular designs of late range from cats and dogs for pet lovers, to more whimsical animal designs that speak to the modern consumer.

“We truly have something for everyone, from the young axolotl and unicorn lover to the Crazy Chicken Lady and sasquatch enthusiast,” said Olson.

THE SUITES AT MARKET SQUARE

Filled with hundreds of temporary exhibitors ready to make a memorable product impression, TheSuites features thousands of unique collections designed to inspire consumers to buy. A must see destination.

Galerie Wallcoverings

Homegrown Art Co.

TRISS

Down Decor

Tonobi

Michel Ferrand

Inkerie Charge & Carry Phone Lanyard. Kikkerland Design. kikkerland.com

Because of their highly visual appeal, products are marketed on Instagram and in showroom displays. Stickers Northwest also relies on its sales reps to promote new releases and supplies its retail partners with product images to share on their respective channels. “Since our stickers can be name-dropped, we often market to a geographical area or a retail theme,” said Adren Darnell, sales manager. For instance, at Ace Hardware trade shows, the company makes a point of bringing more show samples that appeal to male customers.

Stickers positioned up at the register or on spinner display racks serve as standard merchandisers, but retailers that showcase stickers with related products can make a stronger statement. “We have had great success paired with reusable water bottles … a great gift and a fun thing to buy for yourself,” said Olson. Darnell has also seen creative retail displays of pet-themed products that included cat and dog stickers, as well as National Park gift vignettes paired with geographic-specific stickers.

Purposeful Personalization

Not all accessories are made equal; while some product designs concentrate on visual appeal and thought-provoking messages, others are designed with a specific need in mind. The creative minds behind the Oventure brand have dubbed this phenomenon “intentional accessorizing.”

“Customers want pieces that do more than look good; they’re choosing items that add function, simplify their routines and layer it into everyday life,” said co-founder Janie Cooke. “That shift is fueling demand for modular, hands-free solutions that are not only stylish, but serve a real purpose in their daily life.”

The company has centered its product line around this very concept: hands-free core items — the Big O Key Ring, Leather Loop or Phone Crossbody — that are enhanced by stylish add-ons like Oventure’s Silicone Puch, Phone Connector and Mini Envelope. When put together, they represent a custom

Kindness is Cool sticker. Stickers Northwest. stickersnorthwest.com

carryall that negates the need for a cluttered and cumbersome purse or handbag.

According to Cooke, she and her business partner Caroline Nix subscribe to the Oventure philosophy of “carry less, live more.” “When retailers tell that story in-store, they’re not just offering product — they’re offering a daily solution, a proven gift and a repeatable sale,” Nix said. And that message spans its customer demographics, all of whom share a desire for personalized gifts. Fans of the brand range from young adults seeking practical products on campus, to active moms balancing work and family commitments.

“For shoppers who prioritize security, practicality and thoughtful gifting, we highlight the products’ durability, versatility and ‘extra hand’ mindset that makes them a go-to gift for teachers, caregivers and best friends,” she added.

Ensuring that this purpose-driven accessorizing trend stays relevant, Oventure has deployed a social media plan with a target strategy: Instagram for customer retention and community building, TikTok for new customer acquisitions and Instagram for previewing new product launches. In addition, Klaviyo email and SMS marketing enable the company to reward its repeat customers with early access to new drops and exclusive offers.

When merchandising personalized accessories in-store, Cooke suggests a custom display that spells out the myriad possibilities. Not only does it serve as an in-person inspiration board of sorts, but it lends itself to additional revenues. “By tapping into this buildable, mix-and-match approach to accessorizing personal items, retailers aren’t just selling a product — they’re creating a personalized experience,” she explained. “It encourages discovery, boosts basket size and keeps customers coming back to grow their set-up over time … all of which adds up to stronger sales across the board.”

Under the Carolina Moon in Easley, S.C., recently utilized this concept with a hands-free gifting bar. The three-part display

invited shoppers to choose an Oventure base product, followed by an add-on accessory, and then customize it by mixing colors, materials or adding a charm. Bundled pricing, along with a complementary “you got this!” gift tag, fostered instant gift giving and resulted in strong sell-through.

Fashionable, yet functional accessories are also the focus of Shiraleah’s line of personalized gifts. Extras that transform everyday items into multitasking products are finding favor with consumers of all ages and at the register. “Small, swappable accessories let customers easily refresh their look without a big commitment,” said marketing manager Joanna Klinedinst, adding that their affordability encourages impulse buying and repeat purchases.

Accessories that do double duty as pretty and practical boost appeal at both ends of the spectrum. Shiraleah’s Logan Tumbler Fanny Pack, a drinkware wrap that corrals small items like keys and identification, is a favorite among Gen Zers and millennials, as well as more seasoned customers. The company’s Pearl Chain Bag Charm/Key Ring adds a sophisticated accent to any handbag or tote, and the Wyatt Scarf goes from handbag accessory to hair tie in an instant. “We like to highlight versatility, quality and gifting potential when marketing to our customer base,” said Klinedinst. “By designing products that feel current but approachable, we’re able to connect with a broader range of individuals.”

Showcasing the functionality behind these product designs is effective on Instagram, which Shiraleah relies upon for all forms of promotion, from product launches to customer acquisition. But when it comes to communicating the brand in person, retail displays that position related products demonstrate the breadth of possibilities.

“Displaying bag charms on a stylish handbag helps customers visualize how the accessory can elevate their everyday look,” explained Klinedinst. “Retailers that are embracing this trend include Camargo Trading Co in Madeira, Ohio, Caroline & Company in Lafayette, La., and Lou Lou Beans Gift Shop in Crestview, Fla.

Charmed, I’m Sure

Once relegated to bracelets that boasted collectible trinkets, charms have expanded their reach beyond fashionable arm candy. “People are adding charms to everything, and nothing is off limits,” said Elsa Vos, founder/CEO of The Darling Effect. “From shoes to tumblers to bags and even tech accessories, this trend continues to grow.”

Designing charms and other accessories means appealing to the sensibilities of different audiences. Vos believes this strategy is important for supporting the evolution of trends beyond the core customer. “Trends may begin with younger shoppers (though not always — hello, pickleball and Mahjong), but they often gain momentum and reach a broader demographic,” noted Vos. This year, The Darling Effect tapped into the coquette gift vibe with its Oh So Fancy collection of fashion-forward accessories in soft pinks and feminine details. (Refined floral prints and a more sophisticated color palette are targeted at a more mature clientele.)

In order to drive sales of trend-focused merchandise, retailers are wise to create statement-making displays that call attention to their breadth of gift options. “We always recommend displaying complementary items together, like a tumbler with a matching bracelet stack, a tumbler charm and coordinating sling bag or fanny pack,” offered Vos. She points to The Darling Effect’s Gameday Shoe Charm Pack as a product that merchandises well with the colorful gingham shoelaces.

Encouraging additional upselling are dedicated in-store stations

that enable shoppers to see for themselves how themed products work well for instant gift giving. By setting aside time and floor space for immersive events, retailers demonstrate their products’ value with hands-on set-ups. The Pink Pear in Madison, N.J., recently utilized this concept by creating a jewelry charm bar during which their customers personalized necklaces and bracelets in-store. “It turned into a fun, interactive experience that boosted both foot traffic and add-on sales,” noted Vos.

Such creative marketing and experimental merchandising not only adds credibility to evolving marketplace trends, but allows vendors to deepen their partnerships with their retail customers. As such, The Darling Effect has been able to focus less on social media promotion and more on its reputation thanks to the support of its retailers. Vos sees this as a win-win for both supplier and store.

“The challenge in retail spaces is presenting these products in a way that makes them easy to display and easy for customers to shop, without extra work for the retailer,” said Vos. “What may thrive in a direct-to-consumer doesn’t always translate to wholesale, so we go that extra step to meet our retailers where they are and set them up for success.”

Time to Accessorize

Self-expression and individuality are playing out in all types of fashion accessories, including watches. While traditional timepieces have been upgraded with watchbands in colorful fabrics and sturdy leather straps, which can be swapped out to correlate with one’s wardrobe or mood, smart watches are also getting a facelift (pun intended) with charms in themed designs. Demdaco has tapped into this trend with charms featuring special messages and sentiments that carry over from existing product lines. “Each set is curated to be versatile and appealing across generations,” said Valerie Lyon, product manager, baby and fashion.

In order to appeal to customers of all demographics, the company designates specific social media platforms for its respective audiences. Instagram is reserved for younger customers that turn to visual and influencer-heavy content, while Facebook has a notable impact on more seasoned customers who appreciate story-driven posts. But when it comes to connecting with customers in general, Instagram is — hands down — the more effective tool.

“It’s where most people are spending their time these days, and it gives us a great look at what is currently on customers’ shelves, [where we] reshare merchandising inspiration and offer value-added content that our partners can pass along to their own communities,” said social media specialist Autumn Schwabauer.

Speaking of merchandising, retailers that zero in on where best to position accessories can maximize their potential for optimal sales. Placing smaller items at the register encourages what sales director Linda Weiner refers to as “one- to-many” purchases. “When consumers shop both accessory and core product areas, 65 percent of the time there’s a greater opportunity to sell both higher-priced items and smaller impulse accessories — ultimately increasing the retailer’s average ticket size,” she noted.

One such promotion idea involves buying in bulk and saving at the register. With Demdaco’s “style-in-three” sales strategy, consumers can choose any three accessories (“one for you,” “one to gift” and “one to keep”) and save $10-$15 or receive a set percentage off their total purchase. According to Weiner, the promotion works because it encourages more units per transaction, offers flexibility for customers to mix and match and is easy to explain to shoppers at point of sale.

As stores begin setting up shop for fourth-quarter buying and making space for creative gift-giving displays, they will be able to set the stage for a productive holiday season — and head into 2026 in style.

Pearl Chain Bag Charm/Key Ring and Wyatt Scarf. Shiraleah. shiraleah.com

Shoe Charms. The Darling Effect. thedarlingeffect.com

GLOBAL GOODIES

by Lenise Willis

Whether as gift basket fillers, personal pick-me-ups or gifts all by themselves, gourmet goodies pack a punch at the cash register. Not only do snacks and other delectable treats make for great impulse purchases, they’re also great gifts for a wide range of recipients, making them perfect for almost any occasion. Treats and other edible goodies are also more justifiable purchases since they’re functional, too, making them easier sells when times are tough.

Globally inspired goodies, which feel exotic and unique, up the ante. Check out these gourmet gifts inspired by flavors around the world and consider adding a mouth-watering display in your store.

Small-batch, handcrafted Ukrainian Sunflower Honey. $1 per jar donated to United Help Ukraine. Bee Inspired Goods. beeinspiredgoods.com

Italian Stallion Topper Seasoning. Finch + Fennel. finchandfennel.com

Tuscan Herb Quick Bread Mix. Stonewall Kitchen. stonewallkitchen.com

Sizzlin Spicy Sriracha Popcorn Seasoning. Urban Accents. stonewallkitchen.com

Baja Shrimp Seasoning Mix. Urban Accents. stonewallkitchen.com

Tipsy Teds gummies made from real Champagne. Sweet Snob. sweetsnob.co.uk

Opulent Orange Double Trouble truffles made in France. Sweet Snob. sweetsnob.co.uk

Lather Up With A Trophy Mount.

MOON SOAP & BODY WASH

Street Corn Dip Mix. Country Home Creations. countryhomecreations.com

Tiramisu Dip Mix. Country Home Creations. countryhomecreations.com

Bruschetta Cheeseball and Appetizer Mix. Wind & Willow. windandwillow.com

English Wassail Cider Mix. Wind & Willow. windandwillow.com

Bourbon Smoked Curry Powder. Bourbon Barrel Foods. bourbonbarrelfoods.com

Barrel Aged Soy Gift Box. Bourbon Barrel Foods. bourbonbarrelfoods.com

Focaccia-style Flatbread Mix. Maison Zoe Ford. zoeford.com

STOCKING STUFFERS

by Amanda Erd

When it comes to the holiday season, everyone thinks about the big gifts under the tree. But it’s important to remember that many consumers are also looking to fill holiday stockings with smaller items. Everyone takes a different approach to what little extras they put into a loved one’s stocking. Some keep it light with candies and handy everyday items while others put anything that fits including jewelry, games and more.

Whichever approach, you need to have a variety of options at the ready. Consider setting up a “Stocking Stuffer Station” for an easy and helpful display. Here are a few options that would make great gifts for filling anyone’s stocking this season.

Caramel Cold Brew Popcorn Tube. Lolli & Pops. lolliandpops.com

Cheese Playing Cards. New York Puzzle Company. wholesale.newyorkpuzzlecompany.com

Pucker Up Hydrogel Lip Mask. Lemon Lavender. 247dm.com

Lip Balms set. Savannah Bee Company. savannahbee.com

Glasses necklace chain. I Heart Eyewear. ihearteyewear.com

Naughty or Nice Cotton Candy. Twirl Cotton Candy. twirlcottoncandy.com

Pressed Flowers travel candle. Michel Design Works. stonewallkitchen.com

Thirst Trap Straw Toppers. Crush. 247dm.com

The Reluctant Homemaker Kitchen Sponges. Two Left Feet. 247dm.com

Wine bottle stopper. Mud Pie. wholesale.mudpie.com

Street Taco Dip Mix. Wind & Willow. windandwillow.com

Oh My Gua Sha Stainless Steel Gua Sha. Lemon Lavender. 247dm.com

Hot Honey Straws. Savannah Bee Company. savannahbee.com

Salty the Santa Shrimp 5” plush. Douglas. douglascuddletoy.com

Gift for Life UNITING INDUSTRY.

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.

PARTICIPATE. DONATE. FEED THE HUNGRY. FEEL THE GOOD.

Gifts & Decorative Accessories proudly supports

GIFTS FOR ACQUAINTANCES

by Amanda Erd

Picking the perfect gift for a loved one can be difficult but finding something for someone you barely know can be an even bigger challenge. Throughout the year, there are several opportunities where customers may need a gift for someone they don’t know very well — maybe a friend of a friend, a neighbor, a boss or coworker. Though the gift may not be super personal, that doesn’t mean it can’t still stand out.

That’s why we’ve compiled some quality options that are pretty universal. From self-care goodies to humorous magnets to tasty treats, these products go beyond stereotypical go-tos and are sure to leave an impression without breaking your customer’s bank.

Ceramic Mug and Gift Card Holder. Mud Pie. wholesale.mudpie.com

Book Lover Acrylic Ornament. 7th and Palm. 7thandpalm.com

Manicure Set. Cait + Co. caitandcowholesale.com

In Bloom Cocktail Glasses. Tag. tagltd.com

Lava Bracelet. Mad Man. mad-man.com

Bottle Service Wine Accessories Set. Modern Monkey. 247dm.com

Almond Honey Cookie Lip Balm. Beekman 1802. beekman1802.com

Card Wallets. Karma. karmagifts.com

Rose Bath Creamer Gift Set. Totalee Gift. transpacbrands.com

Pet stickers. Stickers Northwest. stickersnorthwest.com

Funny magnets. Shannon Martin Design. shannonmartindesign.com

Chocolate Tiles. Lolli & Pops. lolliandpops.com

Stay Golden, Honey Bath Bomb Gift Pack. Totalee Gift. transpacbrands.com

Write or Die Porcelain Mug. Rifle Paper Co. riflepaperco.com

AMERICAN MADE

Shannon Martin, founder and designer of Shannon Martin Design, got the idea for her Seattle-based greeting card company while sitting on a porch with her family, sharing stories and flipping through old family photos. The brand’s origin story is evident in every one of its products, which feature vintage-inspired photos and both sassy and heartfelt sentiments — just like family.

The idea has certainly paid off as Shannon Martin Design celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. The company is most known for its variety of greeting cards, which pair clever messages with sepia-toned photos, but its product line has grown over the years to include more than 800 items, including coasters and sticky notes, all of which are produced in the U.S. The company also makes magnets and beverage napkins, which add humor and flair to at-home entertaining.

“Shannon’s designs stand out for their classic style and relatable humor,” said Donna Dapper, sales

Sticky notes come in a pack of 75

director for Shannon Martin Design. “Retailers frequently share stories of customers buying multiple cards at once, drawn to their charm and wit.”

The brand has earned multiple Louie Awards and is a regular exhibitor at Atlanta Market, the Total Home & Gift Market, Las Vegas Market and the Seattle Gift Show. With the environment and quality in mind, each card is printed on FSC-certified, 100-percent recycled paper, and napkins are made with water-based ink and threeply, biodegradable, FSC-certified tissue.

Reflecting on this milestone, Martin expressed her gratitude: “I’m so excited to celebrate two decades of publishing my greeting cards and gifts with my wonderful partners Glen Biely and Tom Shoaf, and everyone at Biely & Shoaf.”

Greeting cards and sticky notes. Shannon Martin Design. shannonmartindesign.com

SHARING STORIES

by Lenise Willis

THE ART OF CANDLES

Candles have evolved well past boring masses of scented wax. No w, they’re more like pieces of décor that create a unique ambiance. With the range of options available to consumers today, picking out a candle is an art form all on its own. This month, our editors highlight some of their favorite candles that stand out in one way or another.

LENISE WILLIS

Peacock Elegance Candle by Ojo ojocandles.com

I love candles, but a candle with extraspecial packaging and an interesting backstory takes my love of them to new heights. That’s why Ojo candles are my newest obsession. The company, which supports women in leadership, makes candles that encourage buyers to “tune into a new rhythm.” Candles are broken down into four key collections: Spirit Animal; Language of Flowers; Masculine Rhythms; and Rhythm of the Heart. Each collection evokes a different ambiance that lets users immerse themselves in a new atmosphere, like that of nature or even more niche vibes like that of game night.

Right now, I’m burning the Peacock Elegance Candle, which has woody and aquatic notes and smells absolutely majestic, just like its namesake creature. The bold royal-blue base and turquoise top are also two of my favorite colors.

GDA TEAM PICK

Cocktail-Scented Candles by Papersalt papersalt.com

The new line from Papersalt, appropriately named “Salty, by Papersalt,” brings a fun adult twist to consumers’ favorite items — and that includes candles. In a special collaboration with Broken Top Candles, Papersalt has released a line of cocktailscented candles adorned with their signature retro artwork.

The line features eight different scents, including classic drinks like cosmopolitan, mojito and an oldfashioned. Each candle is 8 ounces and made with hand-poured soy wax, cotton core wicks and skin-safe fine fragrance oils. The individual tins are fitted with artsy labels in Papersalt’s classic retro comic style and tagged with fun phrases, making them perfect for gift giving.

Another bonus? The candle has a 25hour burn time! That’s a big punch for a small candle.

AMANDA ERD

Flat Candles by Flatyz www.flatyzwholesale.com

I’ve always been partial to standard jar candles, both for myself and for gifts. The ease of the vessel being ready for use and the ability to just cap it and tuck it away makes it a solid choice. But as I’ve grown further into adulthood, I’ve been able to expand my horizons.

Recently, I was given some flat candles by Flatyz. I was stunned by how beautiful the art on the candles were. I was afraid to even burn them. I didn’t understand how it all worked; I had no candle holders for such a shape. So, color me surprised when I discovered the Flatyz candles come with their own stainless-steel holder!

The candles themselves are wonderful. Each candle is hand-poured and handcut before being hand-painted, making each one unique in some way. Honestly, even if you didn’t want to burn the candle, it’s still a great statement piece.

BEEKMAN 1802

Coconut Cream Whipped Body Cream

Luxurious goat milk body cream in sweet notes of coconut milk and vanilla blossoms. wholesale@beekman1802.com Beekman1802.com # 400

COUNTRY HOME CREATIONS

Street Corn Dip Mix

Bring the bold, festive flavors of a Mexican street fair right to your kitchen with our Street Corn Dip Mix. Elevate your next gathering with this zesty, crowd-pleasing dip. The rich, creamy base is perfectly balanced with the smoky kick of spices, capturing the vibrant essence of traditional Mexican street corn. Simply add a few simple ingredients to transform any occasion into a flavor fiesta. chcdips.com info@chcdips.com 800-457-3477 # 401

Harmony and Inner Peace

Attract mindful shoppers with Wind River’s meditation chimes—tuned to inspire calm, focus, and inner peace. Handcrafted in the USA, Wind River® chimes elevate your wellness and gift assortments with lasting value. Create sensory moments in-store that invite customers to pause, listen, and connect – with a gift that truly resonates. Bring harmony to your shelves and purpose to every purchase with Wind River’s meditation chimes.

Wind River® 800-345-2530

Rustic and Handmade - Every Step of the Way

From receiving the raw lumber to placing the shipping label, Sawdust City works to ensure your products are made and shipped quickly and safely.

WOOD SIGNS

in the largest selection of colors, sizes, and designs in the industry. We have signs for every season and reason! Funny, sentimental, personalized, and more. If we don’t already have it, we can make it custom for you.

FURNITURE

for resale or store display. We build displays to fit your store’s needs, and create

your customers love.

FAIRE

offers up to $150 off and a full year of free shipping on our products when you join. Plus, enjoy 60-day payment terms on all orders. (Terms apply)

(Terms

AMBER FINK

takes over as the new owner of Sawdust City after 15 years serving as National Sales Manager. She is excited to continue the 30-year legacy of American manufacturing, and looks forward to providing customers with quality Sawdust City products for years to come.

ILLUME

Green Balsam & Cedar Mercury Glass Ornament Candle

Welcome the season with our best-selling holiday fragrance: Balsam & Cedar. Rich oak moss, cinnamon, and eucalyptus create this quintessential classic.

877-545-5863

wholesale.illumecandles.com # 403

WICK'D QUEEN

Hello, Gourd-geous Candles/5 oz., 7 oz., 13 oz. Hand-poured in small batches, Wick’d Queen candles pair cozy scents with uplifting messages to inspire you to let your inner light shine. Personalization available.

925-993-7188 wickdqueen.com # 404

Bring

EMBRACES

WHITE RIVER DESIGNS

Lifetime Candles

Clean burning, smokeless and odorless lifetime candles. Handmade in Arkansas.

870-391-2216

whiteriverdesigns@hotmail.com

# 406

MUSIC OF THE SPHERES

Pentatonic Alto Chime

American-made with U.S.-sourced materials, this precision-tuned chime delivers rich, resonant tones and lasting quality. 888-324-4637

www.motschimes.com

# 407

Crafted for Retailers Who Value Quality:

• 100% Made in the USA

• Tuned to standard orchestral pitch

• Available in 5 sizes and 11 international musical tunings and 3 one of a kind tunings

• Tempered aluminum alloy tubing (100% recyclable)

• UV-stabilized synthetic braid

• Stainless steel components (100% recyclable)

WIKKI STIX

Lifetime Candles

Unique craft kit featuring Wikki Stix for use with everyday things around the house! Includes 480 Wikki Stix! 800-869-4554 info@wikkistix.com # 409

DEEP BREATH DESIGNS

OUR BEST SELLING PRODUCT! Massage with hands,roll on neck or roll under feet,use on shoulders, elbows or knees. Use hot or cold. 520 616 0235 www.deepbreathdesigns.com # 410

GINA B DESIGNS

2026 Desk Calendars

Available in 2 unique styles featuring 12 months of original artwork. Charming “Pretty Garden” (shown) and colorful “Backyard Birds”. Printed on richly textured stock in a clear case that becomes an easel. Optional acrylic display holds 18 calendars. Proudly made in the U.S.A.

800-228-4856

www.ginabdesigns.com # 412

STICKERS NORTHWEST

24-Pocket Countertop Stadium Display

Personalize your gear with stickers. Choose from 1000s of stock or customizable designs. Made in the USA. Find us in the Southern Link showroom in ATL, Roadrunners in DAL and VEGAS. 253-344-1236

www.stickersnorthwest.com # 413

COMING SOON

OCTOBER THE GIFT BOOK

GDA’s exclusive look at what’s trending and why across gift and home categories.

DECEMBER

SPECIAL

Planning For Holiday 2026

NOVEMBER

SPECIAL

Market Scene – Your Guide to the 2026 Markets

JANUARY

PRODUCT PROFILES

I HEART EYEWEAR

WARMIES ® BY INTELEX USA

TWELVE STONE ART

VHC BRANDS

NORA FLEMING

SANTOKI LLC

DOUGLAS CO., INC.

PRODUCT PROFILES

SAWDUST CITY LLC

HANDMADE IN WISCONSIN

Fun and new signs to keep your stock fresh. We continually update our line to meet customer demands. Real wood signs made in the USA. Fast shipping!

| 800-528-6008

@ www.sawdustcitywholesale.com

# circle #301

DM MERCHANDISING

MODERN MONKEY® PIX STIX LED PHOTO CLIP STRAND

9-foot strand with 10 LED clothespin clips for displaying all your favorite memories. Great for dorms, office and kid’s rooms.

| 800-548-6784

@ www.247dm.com

# circle #300

NORA FLEMING

ONE GIFT. EVERY OCCASION.

“Catch some fun” with this all-star mini! From little league to major celebrations, it’s a home run for summer parties, ballpark vibes, and sporty tablescapes.

| 630-231-2500

@ www.norafleming.com

# circle #303

NORA FLEMING

ONE GIFT. EVERY OCCASION.

Chill out with our “ice cold” mini! This red cooler is ready for backyard bbqs, beach days, and summer fun.

| 630-231-2500

@ www.norafleming.com

# circle #302

WORLD BUYERS GIFT & HOME D é COR SKELETONS & SKULLS – IT’S A YEARROUND THING

Unique selections for everyday and the Day of the Dead holiday celebration! See all the popular gift options now. Register online for wholesale account!

| 800-996-7531 or Chat Live on site!

@ www.worldbuyers.com

# circle #304

PRODUCT PROFILES

TEN PEAKS PRESS

KEEP YOUR FORK, THERE’S PIE!

Tara Royer Steele, the owner of Royer’s Pie Haven in Round Top, TX presents 75 mouthwatering pie, dessert, and breakfast recipes to savor and enjoy.#6989824-$24.99 MSRP, Hardcover.

| 888-501-0160

@ faire.com/direct/harvesthousepublishers # circle #306

PARACLETE PRESS

JOURNALING WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT: SCRIPTURES, DEVOTIONS, PRAYERS, & PRAISE TO CONNECT WITH THE SPIRIT OF GOD

This beautifully designed 52week interactive devotional with journaling prompts and coloring pages will transform your life, renew your mind, and empower your faith. MSRP $19.99, Paperback, 8 x 10.

| 800-451-5006

@ faire.com/direct/paracletepress # circle #305

TEN PEAKS PRESS VILLAGE LIFE

Author and part-time Tuscan resident Angel Correll shares charming reflections on her everyday experiences in Italy, along with valuable lessons. #6988445-$34.99 MSRP, Hardcover.

| 888-501-0160

@ faire.com/direct/harvesthousepublishers

# circle #308

TUMBLED MARBLE SCRIPTURE STONE

Handcrafted in the USA. Quarried in the mountains east of the ancient city of Ephesus.

| 714-986-6370

@ twelvestoneart.com # circle #307

CROSSROADS ORIGINAL DESIGNS/ BLOSSOM BUCKET

ASK PRAY TRUST BELIEVE CROSS

This lovely Blossom Bucket “Angels Among Us” resin cross features a heartwarming floral design and the inspiring words “ask. pray. trust. believe.” A beautiful reminder of faith, it adds a touch of grace and encouragement to any space.

| 866-247-0156

@ www.crossroadsfamily.com

# circle #309

TWELVE STONE ART

ABDALLAH CANDIES

MINT MILK CHOCOLATE CROQUETTES

Mouthwatering chocolate mint, creamy smooth milk chocolate with simply the most amazing mint flavor.

| 800-348-7328

@ www.abdallahcandies.com

# circle #311

PRODUCT PROFILES

STONY CREEK AT HOME, INC.

PRE-BOOK OUR PATRIOTIC COLLECTIONS

We continue to be the best Original Decorative Lighted Glass Company since 2009. Be ready for our Nation’s 250th Birthday! Pre-book today from our Patriotic Collections available through September 30th for February 2026 delivery. New lower quantities for everyday ordering! Competitive pricing, UL/ETL certified. Order online today through our website www.stonycreekathome.com.

| 800-657-4641

@ www.stonycreekathome.com

# circle #310

CROSSROADS ORIGINAL DESIGNS/ COOPER’S MILL

ORCHARD RESERVE APPLE AND PUMPKIN BUTTER

Savor the essence of fall with Cooper’s Mill all-natural Orchard Reserve Pumpkin Butter and Apple Butter. Crafted with real fruit and pure cane sugar, these small-batch delights bring heartwarming, wholesome flavor to your table without artificial additives.

| 866-247-0156

@ www.crossroadsfamily.com

# circle #313

STONY CREEK AT HOME, INC.

TOP-SELING SEASONAL COLLECTIONS

The Original Decorative Lighted Glass Company since 2009. The best lighted glass decor! Now available! 2025 Top Selling Seasonal Collections for October 15 ship! Order today for best selection, quantities are limited! Order online or call and experience our exceptional customer service.

| 800-657-4641

@ www.stonycreekathome.com

# circle #314

CANDY CORN WOOD DECOR SET OF 3 SIZES

This charming set includes three sizes of hand-painted candy corn figurines, each exuding rustic charm and farmhouse elegance. The large candy corn measures 7" tall, the medium 6.5", and the small 4".

| 417-334-3099

@ wholesale.vhcbrands.com

# circle #312

VHC BRANDS

PRODUCT PROFILES

NORA FLEMING

ONE GIFT. EVERY OCCASION.

Get into the halloween spirit with our “boo bucket” mini! This pumpkin pail is perfect for fright night festivities and sweet halloween memories.

| 630-231-2500

@ www.norafleming.com

# circle #316

NORA FLEMING

ONE GIFT. EVERY OCCASION.

Our “spooky spaces” mini pairs perfectly with the black & white bubble bowl—just right for halloween snacks, sweets, and a touch of spooky fun.

| 630-231-2500

@ www.norafleming.com

# circle #315

KURT S. ADLER, INC.

CHRISTMAS CUTIES, 3 ASSORTED RED, WHITE, & PLAID SNOWMAN ORNAMENTS

This delightful assortment features holiday festive snowmen dressed in vibrant reds and plaids with reindeer accents that are just too cute!

PRIMITIVES BY KATHY NEW! MINI PET THEMED ORNAMENT SETS

Delightful themed mini ornament sets neatly packaged on a giftable card that are perfect for small Christmas trees or seasonal decorating.

| 866-295-2849

@ primitivesbykathy.com

# circle #317

FESTIVE STRIPE HANDWARMER MUG – RED & GREEN

A holiday best-seller and customer favorite, this cozy mug features a built-in pocket to keep hands warm. Perfect for gifting and seasonal displays — a proven performer year after year.

| 800-621-8350

@ www.tagltd.com

# circle #318 TAG

| 212-924-0900

@ www.kurtadler.com

# circle #319

PRODUCT PROFILES

LOL MADE YOU SMILE HILARIOUS HOLIDAY SOCKS

Spread cheer and laughter with cozy colorful holiday socks displaying relatable seasonal sentiments perfect for self-expression or gifting.

| 866-295-2849

@ primitivesbykathy.com

# circle #321

PEEPERS BY PEEPERSPECS TRAPEZE BLUE LIGHT READERS

Trapeze features a stunning color contrast and a whimsical circusinspired pattern interior, offering a spectacular balancing act between sophisticated style and rebellious optimism.

| 219-872-4413

@ wholesale.peepers.com

# circle #320

I HEART EYEWEAR

DASH READER

Bold yet classic describes the Dash Reader. Available in honey and grey in quarter powers from +0.75-3.00, 3.50 and 4.00.

| 800-247-7667

@ www.ihearteyewear.com

# circle #323

PRIMITIVES BY KATHY MUSHROOMTHEMED GIFTS

Celebrate a cozy cottage lifestyle, but with modern practicality. Giftable accessories flowing with nature-inspired designs in comforting, earthy tones.

| 866-295-2849

@ primitivesbykathy.com

# circle #324

UNEMPLOYED PHILOSOPHY GUILD MUSHROOM ZIPPER BAG

Our Mushroom Zipper Bag features 23 species of these otherworldly sci-fi fungi found on our world. Will that fungus be tasty or toxic? Healthy or hallucinogenic?

| 718-243-9492

@ www.philosophersguild.com

# circle #322

PRODUCT PROFILES

CROSSROADS ORIGINAL DESIGNS

SPICED MAPLE BOURBON CANDLES

Embrace the autumn season with Crossroads’ new Spiced Maple Bourbon premium-scented candles! This captivating blend of maple, creamy vanilla, sweet butterscotch, and bright citrus, with a subtle hint of bourbon, effortlessly fills your home with comforting, cozy fall feelings.

| 866-247-0156

@ www.crossroadsfamily.com

# circle #326

CANDLE WARMERS ETC.

FIRE PIT ARTSCENTS WAX WARMER

Designed to resemble a rustic fire pit, complete with realistic mesh lid and glowing light, this warmer creates an inviting glow while melting your favorite wax melts.

| 801-771-8650

@ www.candlewarmers.com

# circle #325

SASSY GIFTABLE CANDLES

For when an attitude isn’t the only thing stinking up the place, giftable jar candles featuring Trash Talk’s sassy vintage style.

| 866-295-2849

@ trashtalkbyannie.com

# circle #328

CANDLE WARMERS ETC.

MERCURY GLASS CANDLE WARMER LAMP

Featuring a gold mercury glass shade, elegant gold stem, and a sleek black base, this lamp adds a touch of timeless sophistication to any space.

| 801-771-8650

@ www.candlewarmers.com

# circle #327

FLOR TAPER HOLDERS –SMALL & LARGE

Hand-crafted with a weighted base, these taper holders were a summer market favorite. Available in two sizes, they’re ideal for candlelight displays and styled tablescapes.

| 800-621-8350

@ www.tagltd.com

# circle #329

TAG

TRASH TALK BY ANNIE

PRODUCT PROFILES

BEEKMAN 1802

PISTACHIO & DARK CHERRY

3-PIECE GIFT SET

Our most popular gift set in pistachio and dark cherry.

@ wholesale@beekman1802.com

@ beekman1802.com

# circle #331

SERENE HOUSE USA INC.

STRIPE WATERLESS DIFFUSER

Take your aromatherapy to the next level with Serene House’s new ultra-sleek waterless portable diffuser.

| 856-673-4117

@ www.serenehouseusa.com

# circle #330

CANNON BALM FRESH MINT 18-COUNT DISPLAY

Tested by active-duty military personnel, the unique formulation with SPF 15 holds up in the harshest conditions, even withstanding temperatures up to 100 degrees. Our best-selling Lip Balm, now offered in a new 18-count display. Easy to display, easy to refill.

| 855-354-4438

@ www.dukecannonwholesale.com

# circle #333

SERENE HOUSE USA INC.

MILLET AROMA WELLNESS WARMER

The new Aroma Wellness Warmers aren’t limited to wax pods. Experience home fragrance versatility with 3-heat settings for wax or essential oils.

| 856-673-4117

@ www.serenehouseusa.com

# circle #332

CANNON BALM ORANGE MINT 18-COUNT DISPLAY

Tested by active-duty military personnel, the unique formulation with SPF 30 holds up in the harshest conditions, even withstanding temperatures approaching 140 degrees. Our best-selling Lip Balm, now in a new 18-count display. Easy to display, easy to refill.

| 855-354-4438

@ www.dukecannonwholesale.com

# circle #334

DUKE CANNON SUPPLY CO.

DUKE CANNON SUPPLY CO.

PRODUCT PROFILES

WARMIES ® BY INTELEX USA

EVERYONE LOVES WARMIES®

New season, new big snuggles! 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 #336

DOUGLAS CO., INC.

CUDDLE BUGS (1605,1639,1636)

Introducing DOUGLAS’s new cuddle bugs, Larry Leaf Bug (1639), Skimmer Sea Bunny (1605) and Brandon Backpacker Snail (1636). These adorable critters are the perfect combination of realism and imagination, ready to take on any outdoor adventure.

| 800-992-9002

@ douglascuddletoy.com

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DM MERCHANDISING

HELLO MELLO® ON MY WAY TOTE BLANKET

Cozy, super soft throw that packs into a matching tote—perfect for travel, campus, office and keeping in the car.

| 800-548-6784

@ www.247dm.com

# circle #335

SANTOKI LLC

MAMA TOTE BAG PINK

6 each of 2 styles. Embroidered canvas tote features contrast color straps and base. Individual wholesale price is $10.00 each.

| 800-998-1633

@ wholesale.mudpie.com

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LEGO® MINIFIGURES™ FARMERS MARKET KEYCHAIN LIGHT 16 COUNT CDU

Celebrate fresh design and everyday function with our LEGO® Minifigures™ Corn Cob Guy, Peapod Girl, and Carrot Mascot Keychain Lights! Ages 6+. MSRP $16.99 for each Keychain Light. Available September 2025.

@ sales@santoki.com

@ santoki.com

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MUD PIE

PRODUCT PROFILES

POLKA DOT MONOGRAM BABY BEAR PLUSH PAL

Faux fur plush bear features knit sweater and weighted hands, feet and seat. Pink polka dot style wears mesh bow and tutu.

| 800-998-1633

@ wholesale.mudpie.com

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DOUGLAS CO., INC.

FLOPPY BUNNIES

(15721, 15723, 15726, 15727)

DOUGLAS’s floppy bunnies come in an array of bright, playful colors. In the spirit of Spring, each bunny has been given a floral name that correlates with their beautiful color. Peony (15726), Violet (15723), Iris (15727), and Begonia (15721).

| 800-992-9002

@ douglascuddletoy.com

# circle #340

WARMIES ® BY INTELEX USA EVERYONE LOVES WARMIES®

New season, new big snuggles! 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 #343

STORK PERSONALIZED DOOR HANGER

Welcome baby home! Wooden stork shaped door hanger features prompt for birth detail personalization. Hangs with jute rope.

| 800-998-1633

@ wholesale.mudpie.com

# circle #342

MARY MEYER

DUSKY PUTTY HUSKY

Mary Meyer’s Putty Husky made with the signature etched Putty fabric all bundled up for Winter. #55581.

| 800-451-4387

@ marymeyer.com

# circle #344

MUD PIE

MUD PIE

Market Calendar

September – October 2025

SEPTEMBER

GAYLORD, MICH.

Northern Michigan Regional Trade Show

The Ellison Place

silverliningshows.com/ northern-michigan-show

ORLANDO, FLA.

Surf Expo

Orange County Convention Center surfexpo.com

PARIS, FRANCE

Maison & Objet

Paris Nord Villepinte maison-objet.com

GATLINBURG, TENN.

Norton Show

Gatlinburg Convention Center nortonshows.com

SPRINGFIELD, MASS.

North East Toy & Gift Show

MassMutual Center netoyshow.com

BIRMINGHAM, U.K.

International Autumn Fair

NEC Birmingham autumnfair.com

JACKSON, MICH.

Michigan Women’s Wear Market American 1 Event Center silverliningshows.com/ michigan-ww-market

LOS ANGELES

LA Kids Mini Market

California Market Center californiamarketcenter.com

16-19 3-5 21-24 5-7 7-9 16-18 16-18

BOXBOROUGH, MASS.

New England Made Giftware & Specialty Food Show

Boxboro Regency nemadeshows.com

NEW YORK CITY

NY Home Fashions Market 230 Fifth Avenue 230fifthave.com

DALLAS

ArchLight Summit

Dallas Market Center dallasmarketcenter.com

ATLANTA

Fall Market AmericasMart americasmart.com

DALLAS

Dallas Design Week

Dallas Market Center dallasmarketcenter.com

DALLAS

Total Home & Gift Market

Dallas Market Center dallasmarketcenter.com

LAS VEGAS

Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show

Las Vegas Convention Center – South Hall us.clarionevents.com/calendar

NEW YORK CITY

New York Tabletop Show 41 Madison tabletopassociationinc.com

GREENSBORO, N.C.

Greensboro Gift & Jewelry Show

Greensboro Coliseum Complex gtshows.com

MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.

Minneapolis Gift, Home, Apparel & Accessory Show

Minneapolis Mart mplsmart.com

Note: In most cases, shows are open to the trade only. Before traveling to an event, however, please verify the particulars with the organizer by visiting the website. Our full list of events can be found at giftsanddec.com.