Discover product trends and themes buyers and industry reps noticed this past summer at markets.
34 Retail on the Road
See which three destinations stood out the most for a retail expert during her explorations in the last year.
38 Business Briefs
Older employees bring experience, maturity to workplace; sponsor local events to boost visibility, community connections; macro habits to focus on the big picture; building expertise takes patience, practice; draw more customers with friendly events. DISPLAY & DESIGN
40 Display Transitions
Follow these tips to take an outdoor garden display or interior scene from one season to the next one.
RETAILER SPOTLIGHT:
44 Brissonté Gifts & Home Décor
Colleen and Bob Perry opened Brissonté Gifts & Home Décor in 2007. Their son, Robert, is the store’s manager, and Miss Belle is their shop dog. Located in North Reading, Massachusetts, this gift shop fills its 4,000-square-foot space with a mixture of vintage items and new products. It also has a dedicated space in the back for classes, workshops, and fundraising events.
IN EVERY ISSUE
Editor’s
ON THE COVER:Wind & Willow’s Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup Mix offers a gourmet twist on a classic comfort food. Just add six cups of water to the mix for a rich, delicious soup that is both familiar and elevated. Explore the full line at windandwillow.com
Smart Retailer (USPS 011-498) (ISSN 1076-7282) is published eight times a year (Jan, Feb, Apr, June, July, Sept, Nov, Dec) by JP Media LLC, N7528 Aanstad Road, Iola, WI. Periodicals Postage Paid at Iola, WI 54945 and at additional mailing offices. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Free to qualified U.S. retailers only; all other U.S. subscriptions, $19.95 for eight issues; in Canada, $42.95 for eight issues; other foreign subscriptions, $54.95 for eight issues, prepaid in U.S. funds. For subscription inquiries, address changes, or adjustments, write to Smart Retailer at P.O. Box 8551, Big Sandy, TX 75755-9766 or call (855)367-4819. When moving, send your old address as well as your new address and zip code. Allow six weeks for changes. When inquiring about your subscription, please include your address label.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Smart Retailer, P.O. Box 8551, Big Sandy, TX 75755-9766. Printed in the U.S.A.
Seasonal Tweaks
The fourth quarter of the year is just about here. And with it comes a succession of holidays you began planning for months ago and are now in the midst of implementing in speedy fashion.
Consumers’ interest in Halloween merchandise is nothing new. Their desire for pumpkins, witches, ghouls, and more to create elaborate scenes both inside and outside their homes seems to fall earlier each year — fueling retailers’ sales.
Simultaneously, your customers who host Thanksgiving are searching for linens and candles to place on their dinner table and new glassware, appetizers, and drink mixes for their snack and beverage area. They may even want a new tea towel in the kitchen and fall-scented soap and lotion for guests to use.
And while people shop for Christmas décor and gifts all year long, this is now in high gear at your shop. Your holiday open house will probably take place before Thanksgiving.
Thinking about all the things you must take care of and do in a short amount of time makes my head spin! How do you do it?
This issue of Smart Retailer includes timely advice and tips to help you move effortlessly from fall to New Year’s Eve and beyond. And it is from someone who knows how to do this, because he owned a gift shop for close to 30 years.
Anthony Turner tackles the topic of display transitions, beginning on page 40. It was one of several ideas he pitched to me when I approached him about being a guest columnist in this issue — and the one I kept returning to.
He says to think about creating a focused display area right inside the front door or in a display window that transitions from season to season — or holiday to holiday — just like it does in our homes.
That made me think about the ways I move from certain times of the year to another at my home. The coleus and impatiens in the large planter outside my front door still look beautiful in early September.
Later in the fall, I am going to replace them with a white birch branch, dried hydrangeas, and other plants I scavenge from my property. That arrangement takes me through the winter and into spring.
What you do in your shops is on a much grander scale, and Anthony’s ideas are sure to provide inspiration for tweaking your seasonal display area. On your mark, get set, go!
ANGIE
Diana Jones President/Publisher, ext. 151 dianaj@jpmediallc.com
II want to better understand how my customers like to shop — even outside of my own store. With the holidays approaching and retail so competitive, this could help me be more proactive in my marketing, advertising, and more. What tips do you have?
love how you think ahead! Understanding how your customers shop beyond your store is incredibly smart, especially as we head into the busy holiday season when consumer behavior becomes more intentional, emotional, and — like you said — competitive.
Here are five tips to help you proactively support your customers this upcoming holiday season and year-round.
Ask … Do Not Assume
Use simple, engaging surveys (via email, in-store QR codes, or social media polls) to ask your customers where else they shop, what platforms they use for inspiration (Instagram? Pinterest? local markets?), and what influences their purchasing decisions. Keep it short and focused. You will be surprised how much insight you can get from just a few well-crafted questions. To help kickstart this, consider:
• What is your average budget for gift-giving to a family member? A friend? For a host gift?
• Do you enjoy shopping during special events, such as a holiday evening at your favorite store, or during day-to-day, traditional shopping experiences?
• Are you inspired by social media to shop in physical stores? If the option for them to write details is available, ask them to elaborate on this to gain more insight.
Host a Discovery Chat
Invite a few loyal customers to a casual in-store or virtual coffee hour. Ask them about their holiday shopping habits that include where they look for gift ideas, what makes them stay loyal to a store, and how they decide what is worth their spending.
This kind of feedback helps you be more proactive in your planning and allows them to feel appreciated as well. Offer them an in-store value to spend as a thank you, such as $15 for a future purchase of $50 or more.
Track Local Trends
Pay attention to your neighboring independent, local retailers. What kind of events are they running? Are they focusing on bundled gifting? Seasonal promotions? Community givebacks? Often your customers visit those shops, too, and notice those same details. Use this as inspiration while keeping your brand identity uniquely yours.
Partner for Cross-Promotion
If you know where your customers shop, you might identify opportunities to collaborate with these same destinations. Likeminded, non-competitive businesses make great collaborators to help both you and them.
Think of a local pet photographer and a local pet store. Or a fabulous gift shop and a local bakery. You could co-host a holiday shopping night or share each other’s promotions via email or social media. Work together to build each of your outreaches this holiday season and beyond.
Be Present Where They Are
Whether it is local farmer markets or social media, consider how your brand could show up where your customers are, even if it is just through content or collaborations. You do not have to be everywhere. You just need to be where your target customers are. Consumers value connecting with businesses they — you guessed it — feel like they connect with.
Finally, being proactive means not only understanding customer spending habits, but also making customers feel seen, valued, and excited to return to your store. As you already know, being an independent retailer has many challenges … but it also has many rewards.
Lean into the positive of what your unique store brings to your community and then authentically build trusted connections with customers, so they see you are taking the time to care.
This does not always mean spending big ad dollars or being on local billboards. It is the connections, community building, and customer care that will go a long way.
Nicole Leinbach Hoffman is the founder of RetailMinded.com, a well-respected retail industry resource that has been recognized worldwide for its leading business insight since 2007. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Business Insider, the UK’s Telegraph, CNN, the Today show, and countless other industry resources. Additionally, she has supported American Express’s Small Business Saturday as a spokesperson and is the author of the book Retail 101: The Guide to Managing and Marketing Your Retail Business, published by McGraw-Hill. With a core concentration on small businesses and independent retailers, she welcomes you to connect via Instagram at @ RetailMindedWorld and Twitter via @RetailMinded.
Musical Gold & Silver Nutcracker With Water Globe
From the Hollywood Nutcracker collection comes this nutcracker with lavish gold and silver details and a shimmering water globe. It is 22" tall and plays White Christmas, bringing elegance, movement, and festive charm to any holiday collection.
Kurt S. Adler, Inc. kurtadler.com info@kurtadler.com 212-924-0900
Sweet Grace Eau De Parfum
The iconic Sweet Grace scent has a warm, peaceful blend of exotic passion fruit, sparkling tea, and classic patchouli. Spray directly onto skin and prepare for compliments all day long. OneCoast onecoast.com webadmins@onecoast.com
Caramel Apple Dumpling Mix
There’s nothing quite like the experience of digging into a freshly baked apple dumpling, with its tender dough and sweet, cinnamon-laced apple filling. Thanks to this easy-to-prepare mix, consumers can now enjoy that same taste and texture with minimal effort.
Country Home Creations chcdips.com info@chcdips.com 800-457-3477
Distressed Wooden Primitive Saltbox Houses
Decorative saltbox houses are available in three assorted vintage-inspired colors. A hole in back allows for lighting capability. Measuring 17.75" h. x 7" x 5.75", each house is an eye-catching statement piece. The Hearthside Collection thehearthsidecollection.com contact@thehearthsidecollection.com 614-626-8493
Extra-Thin Peanut Brittle
Hand-stretched, extra-thin peanut brittle is made fresh in small batches. Perfect for repackaging, catering, and large-group sampling, the 20-pound bulk bag delivers unbeatable crunch and flavor. Dillon Candy Company dilloncandy.com info@dilloncandy.com 800-382-8338
Fur Coat Fox
This foxy fellow is dressed to the nines in a fur coat, plaid shirt, and black high-top shoes. Plush with a weighted bottom for easy display. 11.5" w. x 23" h. Bright Ideas brightideaswholesale.com support@brightideaswholesale.com 614-916-3840
Family Ties Collection
Celebrate family with an assortment of 16 new resin products in soothing shades of warm blue and gold. They feature inspirational verses and fun sunflower accents.
Crossroads Original Designs / Blossom Bucket crossroadsfamily.com sales@crossroadsfamily.com 866-247-0156
Christmas Décor
Handmade and mouth blown using Pyrex swirl glass, a variety of ornaments feature clear and gold etching.
Egyptian Museum egyptianmuseum44.com egyptianmuseum44@msn.com 732-564-0830
Q1 Wagon
The Q1 Wagon is a go-to solution for transporting children, pets, or even groceries. Designed with families in mind, it combines functionality, safety, and convenience in one compact package. Unlike most stroller wagons, it features a true off-the-ground seat.
Familidoo familidoo.com info@familidoo.com
Bacon Cheddar Smash Burger
This blend is the company’s newest flavor and makes the most crave-worthy burgers.
Halladay’s Harvest Barn halladays.com sales@halladays.com 802-463-3471
Santa With Christmas Tree Mirror
The artwork on the mirror depicts a watercolor-style Santa in his signature fur-trimmed red suit. He’s carrying a small pine tree adorned with vibrant red bulbs, berries, pine cones, and a striking red poinsettia.
Col House Designs colhousedesigns.com custserv@colhousedesigns.com 800-777-1442
Merriment Matchbox
Sparking joy at first glance, the matchbox is crafted with a shimmering brass exterior and adorned with a glamorous plush tassel detail. Available in three colors and engraved with a charming message.
Skeem dhomebrands.com
info@skeemdesign.com 215-978-6240
Botanical Garden Scented
Dough Bowl Candle
Midnight Bloom UtiliSeat
Garden Tool Bench
The ultimate companion for gardening in comfort and convenience, this versatile tool combines a lightweight steel-framed seat with a detachable multipocket tool bag. Perfect for camping, fishing, sporting events, and more.
Garden Works
gardenworksusa.com
info@gardenworksusa.com 425-455-0568
It’s a botanical garden in a wooden bowl, combining aesthetic design and fragrance. Makes a great housewarming gift or an accent décor piece for an event.
Crazy About Candles crazyaboutcandles.com orders@crazyaboutcandles.com 714-299-0110
Reed
Diffusers
Developed in collaboration with master perfumers in Grasse, France, these diffusers are as much a visual statement as they are a sensory experience. Each diffuser is crafted to enhance focus, relaxation, and joy, all while looking chic on the shelf.
ripple⁺ Home therippleco.com
Stone Wash Jean Journal
Made from real denim with a usable pocket and filled with paper made from stones, there’s no other journal like it in design or function. It’s tear resistant and waterproof. No trees were harmed.
These handmade works of art are crafted from aged whiskey barrels. The charred stripes in the flag are from the inside of a bourbon barrel. The light wood is the outside of the barrel. 12" x 6". Stand included.
The Heritage Flag Company theheritageflag.com ginny@theheritageflag.com 910-725-1540
Summer Gem Drops
Turquoise, rhodonite, carnelian, aventurine, amethyst, citrine, lapis, garnet, glass, highquality crystal, amber, and more are combined to create a burst of summer color. Stones are wire wrapped along the entire length and joined with gold-filled hooks and clasps. Oreb Lram Fine Casual Jewelry Oreb-lram.indieme.com oreblram@mail.com 715-685-0686
“I’m No Quitter” Sticky Notes
Enjoy a touch of humor while tackling to-do lists. Vibrantly colored sticky notes feature vintage photos and witty sentiments. Each individually wrapped pack contains 75 sticky notes.
Shannon Martin Design shannonmartindesign.com orders@shannonmartindesign.com 877-957-0940
Made in the USA
Welcome LastingLite Electric Candle
This interchangeable candle sleeve combines simple elegance and comfort, creating a welcoming space that feels both fresh and heartfelt. Each candle is carefully handcrafted in Indiana from a special blend of waxes.
In this seasonal print, a snowman stands in a field next to a wooden wagon filled with wrapped gifts and a Christmas tree. Comes in a black wooden frame with cream-colored trim. Frame is 11" w. x 9" h.
Simple vegetable soaps blend herbs and botanicals into fresh cleansing bars. Enriched with shea butter and virgin olive oil and infused with botanical scents. Offered in 6.4 oz. soap blocks, individually nestled in cloth drawstring sacks.
Greenwich Bay Trading Co. gbsoaps.com customerservice@gbsoaps.com 919-781-5008
Caren Coffee Bath Treats
This trio of handmade bath bombs with a coffee fragrance contains ingredients to nourish, soothe, and hydrate skin, including Epsom salt, kaolin clay, and shea butter. Infused with an essential oil blend. OneCoast onecoast.com webadmins@onecoast.com
Mites Collection
Perfect for littles on the go, the collection has eight Mites in new designs and colors: convertibles, 4WDs, race cars, T-Mites, box trucks, cars, train engines, and buses. Crafted in Vermont from locally harvested pine and component parts from Maine. Maple Landmark maplelandmark.com thefolks@maplelandmark.com 802-388-0627
You’ll find new favorites every time you visit! New signs uploaded monthly.
A family owned domestic manufacturer of premium-scented fragrance products.
Crossroads Original Designs Bucyrus, Ohio www.crossroadsfamily.com sales@crossroadsfamily.com 866-247-0156
Brighten your holiday sales with USA-made packaging! In stock, ships fast. Nashville Wraps Hendersonville, Tennessee www.nashvillewraps.com info@nashvillewraps.com 800-547-9727
The world doesn’t make things the way they used to, but we do. Made in USA Second Nature By Hand Strongsville, Ohio www.secondnaturebyhand.com info@secondnaturebyhand.com 866-298-0433
High quality true flat braided rugs. Reversible and machine washable.
Colonial Braided Rug Co. Shelby, North Carolina braided.com sales@braided.com 704-538-1824
Quill and Parchment
Step into a cozy bookstore with this 1,000-piece puzzle by Lore Pemberton. It features a charming winter scene, with snow swirling outside and a couple browsing shelves inside.
New York Puzzle Company wholesale.newyorkpuzzlecompany.com/s/ sales@newyorkpuzzlecompany.com 347-815-1234
Peppermint Frost Candle
Hand-poured, single-wick candles in decorative holiday tins are available in Fresh Holly, Lavender Birch, Peppermint Frost, Sparkling Cranberry, and Winter Garden scents.
Greenwich Bay Trading Co. gbsoaps.com customerservice@gbsoaps.com 919-781-5008
Hot Pepper Bacon Jam
Roasted red pepper puree, jalapeño peppers, and real bacon combine to create an addictive jam. For a quick appetizer, pour over cream cheese and serve with crackers. Alternatively, use straight from the jar as a dip. Pairs well with strong cheeses. Terrapin Ridge Farms terrapinridge.com sales@terrapinridge.com 727-442-3663
Write-On Notepads
These notepads are perfectly sized for quick reminders, to-do lists, or slipping a cheerful message into a greeting card. Each pad features 50 crisp sheets — just the right amount for staying organized.
Gina B Designs ginabdesigns.com cs@ginabdesigns.com
Rustic Wood Light-Up
Believe Snowman
Made of layered pieces of wood, the snowman has a black hat, an orange nose, and a star cutout that lets light through. Includes a bulb, a standard plug, and a rolling on/off switch. 9.5" w. x 14" h.
Flexible yet sturdy, this is the ultimate multiuse tote. Strong, ergonomic handles make lifting and carrying effortless. Whether harvesting veggies, weeding, or tackling heavy-duty tasks, it’s up for the job. Garden Works gardenworksusa.com info@gardenworksusa.com 425-455-0568
Joseph’s Coat Rug
The trademarked design is unique, and no two rugs are identical. Color combinations change every two to four rows. The wider the rug, the more times the combinations appear. 782-JC (shown) is black, brown, camel, and brick red.
Colonial Braided Rug Company braided.com colonialbraidedrugs@gmail.com 704-538-1824
Cardinal LastingLite Electric Candle
Capture the gentle beauty of winter with this watercolor print featuring a male cardinal resting on a holly branch. Each candle is carefully handcrafted in Indiana from a special blend of waxes.
This leatherette compact mirror has a magnetic closure and comes with regular and 2x magnification views. Dexsa Company, Ltd. dexsa.com brenda@dexsa.com 715-386-8701
Fashion Accessories & Jewelry
Copper and Brass Hand-Forged Bangles
Individually hand-forged bangles from the Swirl collection form an illusion of being a single piece. Also available in sterling silver.
Precious Elements Designs preciouselementsdesigns.com info@preciouselementsdesigns.com 917-685-3293
Be the Light Pendant
Inspired by a radiant sun, rays of brass and a center of dazzling Swarovski crystals encourage wearers to be bold and bright. The pendant has a message on the reverse side: be the light. Waxing Poetic waxingpoetic.com sales@waxingpoetic.com 805-220-6509
Brown Leather Stamped Bracelet
This brown leather men’s bracelet has a stamped cross design and a magnetic clasp. Eden Merry Jewelry jameslawrencecompany.com brenda@jameslawrencecompany.com 715-386-3082
Fancy Ring Holder
Each ring holder is handmade from Pyrex glass. Egyptian Museum egyptianmuseum44.com egyptianmuseum44@msn.com 732-564-0830
Necklace
A custom-made lampwork glass pendant makes this a stunning statement piece. Designs by Janet designsbyjanet@msn.com 610-704-8936
African Mud Bead Bracelet
The handcrafted statement bracelet features an eclectic mix of African mud beads, coral bone beads, and a beautiful brass focal bead. The earthy palette of brown, white, and fiery orange is perfect for art lovers. Aclue! Jewelry by Celest Anderson acluejewelry.com info@acluejewelry.com 347-943-0013
Earthrise
Featuring natural earthy turquoise in shades of deep brown, green, tan, and blue, the jewelry pieces in this collection are accented with glass, lapis, pewter, and sterling silver beads. No two are exactly alike.
Oreb Lram Fine Casual Jewelry Oreb-lram.indieme.com oreblram@mail.com 715-685-0686
Original Hair Ties
Sold as a set of four, the knotted hair tie bracelets have goldplated details and signature gold end caps. They are water resistant. Pictured is the Peacock color set.
Smith and Co. Jewel Design shopsmithandco.com smith@shopsmithandco.com 919-810-6545
Diamond Plate Cross Necklace
Made of stainless steel, this black and silver diamond plate necklace for men comes with a 24" chain.
Eden Merry Jewelry jameslawrencecompany.com brenda@jameslawrencecompany.com 715-386-3082
Sterling Silver Necklace With Leather Fringe
Inspired by Montana’s big sky, this stunning bohemian necklace is made with domestically sourced sterling silver, deer leather, and genuine Kingman turquoise. Crafted in small batches in the company’s home studio.
Ceramic Turtle Studs Approximately 1.25" x 0.625", these hand-painted turtle earrings are new to the marketplace and ship in an assortment of colors.
Dunitz & Company dunitz.com info@dunitz.com 323-769-8600
Gourmet Pecan Roll
Perfect for fall gift baskets and assortments, this 4 oz. pecan roll elevates a Southern classic. It has a fluffy nougat center dipped in rich caramel and rolled in golden fancy pecans for unmatched freshness, flavor, and visual appeal.
Dillon Candy Company dilloncandy.com info@dilloncandy.com 800-382-8338
Sugar Cubes
Gourmet sugar cubes — made with pure cane sugar, real fruit zest, edible flowers, and natural extracts — add a hint of sweetness to beverages like coffee, tea, and champagne. Handcrafted in the USA and packaged in pretty tins. Storied Goods storied-goods.com
martha@storied-goods.com 212-626-6690
Dubai Pistachio Bonbons - Milk Chocolate
Inspired by the viral bar, these bonbons showcase a silky pistachio butter ganache with crisp toasted kataifi, coated in chocolate. This fusion of creamy, crunchy, and rich flavors creates an unforgettable, luxurious treat. Ticket Chocolate ticketchocolate.com connect@ticketchocolate.com 916-626-1871
Gourmet Foods
Broccoli Cheddar Chowder Mix
Settle in with a bowl of pure comfort. Creamy, cheesy goodness in every spoonful of this hearty and satisfying meal will please the whole family.
Country Home Creations chcdips.com info@chcdips.com 800-457-3477
Toad’s Triple Leap Sauce
Unleash a bold, old-school flavor. This isn’t just a sauce — it’s a legacy of rich, tangy heat and a perfect balance of spice. Ideal for grilling, stir-fries, marinating, and dipping.
This set of six assorted glass ornaments from the Noble Gems collection features hand-painted designs with realistic toppings and cream cheese centers.
Kurt S. Adler, Inc. kurtadler.com info@kurtadler.com 212-924-0900
Zingy Garlic Aioli Squeeze
Bold and flavorful, this aioli delivers a punchy blend of savory garlic, smooth Dijon mustard, and a touch of chili heat. It’s brightened with notes of lemon. Terrapin Ridge Farms terrapinridge.com sales@terrapinridge.com 727-442-3663
Pumpkin Spice Syrup
Pumpkin spice season is here, so break out this fun new syrup! It is delicious over spice cake, mixed in a latte, and added to autumn dips.
Crossroads Original Designs / Cooper’s Mill crossroadsfamily.com sales@crossroadsfamily.com 866-247-0156
Garlic Parmesan Dip & Cooking Blend
This delicious new dip and cooking blend has a robust flavor profile and is featured in numerous new recipes from the Harvest Barn Kitchen. Halladay’s Harvest Barn halladays.com sales@halladays.com 802-463-3471
Bestselling mix guaranteed to spice up your shelves with beautiful packaging. Wind & Willow Mt. Vernon, Missouri windandwillow.com customerservice@windandwillow.com 888-427-3235 FIND US ON FAIRE.COM
New Pumpkin Spice Pecans in a convenient 2.5 oz package. Dillon Candy Company Boston, Georgia www.dilloncandy.com info@dilloncandy.com 800-382-8338 taking simple to unforgettable Terrapin Ridge Farms Clearwater, Florida terrapinridge.com sales@terrapinridge.com 727-442-3663
Floor Coverings, Textiles & Linens
Cardinals Welcome Mat
Featuring two cardinals on a snowy pine branch with a blue background, this mat has a rubber backing to prevent movement. 29" x 17.5" x 0.25". The Hearthside Collection thehearthsidecollection.com contact@thehearthsidecollection.com 614-626-8493
Normandy Green and Tan Collection
This collection strikes a balance of simplicity and sophistication. Available in table runners, squares, throws, pillows, bedding, and shams. Additional color choices viewable online. Pine Creek shoppinecreek.com shoppinecreek@aol.com 570-558-6291
Deer in the Forest Doormat
Designed in collaboration with the Victoria and Albert Museum, this doormat is based on an original textile design by 20th-century designer C.F.A. Voysey, who was a pioneer of the Arts and Crafts Movement. Entryways dhomebrands.com info@dhomebrands.com 215-978-6240
Table Mats and Stockings
Table mats and stockings are handmade. They come in different sizes and colors and have a flannel backing. Raggedy Junction raggedyjunction@gmail.com 203-650-6200
Black Vegetables Towel
This woven jacquard tea towel is made of 100% cotton and features a vegetable-themed design. Made in Portugal.
Mierco European Linens mierco.com info@mierco.com 888-277-8838
Waffle Towels
Made from high-quality, 100% cotton, the set includes one printed towel and one nonprinted towel in a matching color. The waffle texture enhances absorbency and provides a quick-drying feature. Machine-washable. Alice’s Cottage alicescottage.com info@alicescottage.com 800-288-7977
Flax Linen Rose Wine Runner
Handwoven by rural weavers from northern India, the fair-trade, 100% flax linen runner is made with azo-free, low-impact dyes. Sizes: 14" x 72" and 14" x 90". Machine wash cold on a delicate cycle. Tumble dry low.
Virginia www.wtcollection.com info@wtcollection.com 757-855-0800
Atlanta 2 3 201 NY Now #346
Upcycled Natural Banana Fiber Place Mats
These fair-trade place mats are handwoven on traditional handlooms in southern India using banana plant fiber and a cotton blend. Wipe clean with a damp cloth or spot clean with a soap solution. Set of four. 13" x 19".
Indulge the senses with this kit designed for effortless aromatherapy and visual delight. Includes a ceramic melter, 4 oz. soy wax melts, and a tea light candle. Made in USA.
Crazy About Candles crazyaboutcandles.com orders@crazyaboutcandles.com 714-299-0110
Each card is printed on FSC-certified, 100% recycled paper and paired with a coordinating white envelope adorned with scattered copper stars. Made in USA. Shannon Martin Design shannonmartindesign.com orders@shannonmartindesign.com 877-957-0940
Shop Doggies
Recycled Polyester Waffle Towel
Featuring the company’s warehouse dogs, this 18" x 30" double-sided towel is made from three recycled plastic bottles.
ellembee gift ellembeegift.com info@ellembee.com 248-520-7467
The new holiday collection includes individual cards and boxed sets of 10 cards with coordinating envelopes. Printed in the USA on high-quality, recycled post-consumer wastepaper. Biely & Shoaf Co. bielyshoaf.com info@bielyshoaf.com 877-957-0940
Crinkle Paper
Colorful, eco-friendly paper is 100% manufactured in the USA. Protect gifts while adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the packaging.
This premium soy-blend candle (20 oz.) is paired with a reusable spa-inspired cork lid that naturally absorbs fragrance with use. The Midnight scent has notes of smoky amber, earthy patchouli, and spiced fruits.
Acadian Candle Company acadiancandles.com sales@acadiancandles.com 952-888-6464
Summer Market Takeaways
Retailers, Industry Reps Share What Stood Out
BY ANGIE LANDSVERK
Michaela Kanoski was looking for trendy cups, obscure décor, and gourmet food this summer, and she found it all at Las Vegas Market.
Kanoski of Bergan Mercy Gift Shop in Omaha, Nebraska, said she “loved the Sicilian summer trend — deep blues, lemons, and oranges.”
She said her biggest takeaway from a business standpoint was “we learned that tariffs are hurting our vendors and our feelings and that customers are learning to buy it now, because it will be bought by someone else later.”
Andrea Nelson’s biggest takeaway from the market she attended was that displaying in a unique, new way is important for driving shoppers to buy. “I would like to have signage that highlights our products made locally and in the USA,” she said. “It’s important to be supporting those businesses and brands that are right here in our country.”
She is part of Nelson’s Apple Farm — a veteran-owned, family-operated business in Webster, Minnesota. Nelson saw an increased presence of signage saying “Made in USA” when she went
to MinneapolisMart in Minnetonka, Minnesota, and would like to see more of that.
Nelson was looking for gift items with a military theme during her trip. “I found gnomes that had the symbols for the military branches,” she said. Nelson had hoped to find more products with that theme, and an online search for retail wholesalers with a military background was not fruitful for her.
She also found strawberries and axolotls to be more on trend this year than they were in years past. “Pumpkins continue to flood the market,” Nelson said. “It is nice to see the color variations, as this gives everyone a break from the traditional orange pumpkin option.”
Opening minimums seemed to be more in line with what her business can afford. “Quantity minimums are still hit and miss for what my business can handle,” she said.
Something she also saw this past summer was significant price increases, with a decrease in quality. “For instance, I saw many items that were poorly made and had low-quality material,” Nelson said. “The wholesale price was what I know my customer base would only consider buying if that were the retail price.”
Fruit-shaped products like Accent Décor’s Fresh Fruit Collection were embraced by brands in every category at the summer markets in Atlanta and Las Vegas.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ACCENT DÉCOR
A display attracts attention during the Total Home & Gift Market in Dallas.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DALLAS MARKET CENTER
Industry Takeaways
ANDMORE’s team shared the trends that were seen over the summer at both markets in Atlanta and Las Vegas. These trends were self-care and new age elements; shades of green; books being back; tabletop décor; and fun with fruit.
Regarding self-care and new age elements, they said this multi-billion-dollar industry is the fastest-growing trend in gifting. Consumers are buying candles, journals, and crystals that promote intentionality with their time, bodies, and lives. There is a growing embrace of Zen life.
Increasingly popular are the color green, olives, plants, gardening accessories, and outdoor gifts. ANDMORE said this biophilic trend has seen a significant boost since the COVID-19 pandemic and shows no signs of slowing down.
They also said BookTok has revitalized reading, contributing to the resurgence of beloved bookstores, and that many people are channeling their inner Martha Stewart by focusing on tabletop aesthetics.
What Tom Fuhrer took from his trip to Atlanta Market was the idea of clean, simple, natural — not fussy — color combinations. Fuhrer, who lives in southeastern Wisconsin, described it as a Northwoods feel.
That trend stood out to him. “Clean, simple, neutral displays and any product looked good against cream, shades of beige — light to dark — off-whites,” he said.
Fuhrer was searching for Christmas items. “January is too early to plan Christmas for a small store,” he said. “I’m too influenced by the previous Christmas.”
Zack Koonce also wanted to discover Christmas products during his trip to Atlanta Market and found what he was looking for. Koonce went there on behalf of Zak’s of Mallardtown in Trenton, North Carolina.
What was his biggest takeaway from his time in Atlanta? He said it was the use of lighting, sound, smell, and samples.
Tisha Martin owns Cindy’s Home and Garden in Kingsville, Ontario, with her husband, Jason. She went to Atlanta Market, Dallas Market Center, and the Toronto Gift Show.
She found the food/gourmet category to be hot this season. For Christmas, she noticed natural products like deer and owls were popular. “I know sardines are huge for next year,” she said.
Martin was looking for gifts, memorials, gourmet products, fashion, and accessories. “I love going to the shows to get inspired with my merchandising,” she said.
The final trend they commented on — fun with fruit — is what they described as a sweet and refreshing theme that adds fruity flair to the home, from lemons and strawberries to bananas, cherries, and other sweet treats. They said brands from every category are embracing this juicy trend of fruit-shaped products.
Buyers gravitated toward planners and journals that supported functionality and mindfulness during NY
A trend noticed at the summer markets in Atlanta and Las Vegas was self-care elements like Birdbath’s face collection.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BIRDBATH
Tabletop aesthetics, such as Piffany Copenhagen’s Slim Taper Candles in Apricot, were one of the trends at the Atlanta and Las Vegas summer markets.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PIFFANY COPENHAGEN
Layered, chunky jewelry was a trend at NY NOW’s summer market.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF NY NOW
NOW’s summer market.
Colorful items like these from Gissa Bicalho were trending last summer at NY NOW’s market.
Heavily textured objects were among the themes that stood out at NY NOW’s summer market.
Pictured are Serpui bags.
Napa Home & Garden’s Regina Bowls are an example of the shades of green trend seen at both the Atlanta and Las Vegas summer markets.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NAPA HOME & GARDEN
Huge Variety & Choices
The Perfect Gifts
Everyone
Oh My Mahjong’s products attract buyers at Dallas’ Total Home & Gift Market.
At NY NOW’s summer market, Show Director Matthew Mathiasen noticed several trends. They were layered and chunky jewelry; planners and journals; handbags and bag charms; and colorful and campy gifts.
“Statement-making jewelry is back in force, with layered necklaces and bold, oversized pieces commanding attention,” Mathiasen said. “This shift reflects consumer appetite for personality-driven fashion that leans maximalist rather than minimalist.”
He said the stationery category continues to thrive, with beautifully designed planners and journals that blend function with self-care. Mathiasen noted shoppers are gravitating toward formats that support both productivity and mindfulness.
Mathiasen also found accessories to be strong across the board, with handbags emerging in fresh silhouettes and materials. “Bag charms are being used as personalization tools, especially popular with younger consumers,” he said.
In addition, playful, irreverent gifting remains a standout, from rainbow-bright novelties to campy, humor-driven items, according to Mathiasen. “These products resonate with shoppers looking for a sense of fun and nostalgia in their purchases,” he said.
Product trends from the past few years that are no longer as popular are neutrals, simple jewelry, and monogramming. Mathiasen said neutrals were once a dominant palette but are now taking a back seat as consumers increasingly seek bold colors and patterns to express individuality.
In the jewelry category, he said minimalist pieces have given way to more expressive, layered looks. “Retailers are finding that shoppers now want jewelry that makes a statement rather than blends in,” Mathiasen said.
And he said that while personalized products remain relevant, traditional monogramming is cooling off. Instead, consumers are opting for quirkier, more unconventional forms of customization, he said.
The overall themes that stood out this summer were nautical, country western, disco/1970s, heavily textured objects, pop culture, and sardines and lobsters. Mathiasen said maritime motifs — from stripes to anchors — brought a coastal vibe to everything from home décor to apparel.
He said the country-western influence was strong, with cowboy hats, fringe, and rugged textures infusing a sense of Americana into products. In addition, shimmer, sparkle, and retro references were everywhere, Mathiasen said, reflecting a playful revival of disco-era glam.
Also trending were products with tactile surfaces, whether woven, embossed, or sculpted. Consumers are seeking sensory depth in everyday items, he said.
Mathiasen said seafood imagery, especially sardines and lobsters, popped up in cheeky, unexpected ways, from tableware to textiles, adding humor and novelty. And from celebrity references to meme-inspired designs, pop culture continues to be a powerful driver of product development.
His favorite trends were vibrant patterns, vintage made new, regional shifts, and pop culture commentary. “Bold, eye-catching prints are taking center stage, offering energy and optimism that resonate with shoppers eager for joy and brightness,” Mathiasen said.
He said retro influences are being reimagined with a modern twist and classic motifs updated through fresh materials, colors, and functionality. Additionally, an evolution is happening across regional aesthetics. “Cowboy culture is influencing coastal markets, while cozy knits and sweater weather are making surprising appearances in southern states,” Mathiasen said.
And he said products that playfully comment on or remix pop culture stand out. This allows consumers to signal humor, cultural fluency, and identity through what they buy.
During last June’s Total Home & Gift Market, Dallas Market Center representatives noticed these product trends — personalization, drinkware, and mocktails. The personalization trend was seen across all product categories in June. Charms for bags, luggage, shoes, and jewelry were everywhere. They said elevated barware is being paired with alcohol-free beverages and teas.
When asked what trend from the past few years is no longer as popular, they said crass humor. They are seeing a shift from gift items with snarky or crass sayings to sassy and good-natured humor.
The overall themes that stood out in Dallas last June were sustainability, nostalgia, and comfort. They said sustainable products are becoming the new normal. Across all gift categories, people want meaningful products that will last.
The 1990s and 2000s are trending in all categories of gift, including apparel and accessories, and even the shelf packaging. There was also a huge trend toward comfort and cozy in June that included gift items, apparel, and accessories in soft fabrics and comfortable styles.
A favorite amongst the trends they saw was described as affordable happiness, with retailers looking for meaningful and affordable items their consumers can buy to brighten someone’s day. Another trend they noticed among buyers was an increased desire for community. Showroom events and market center events were full of retailers wanting to connect with each other.
A rep interacts with a potential buyer during the Total Home & Gift Market in Dallas.
Store Tips From a Retail Expert Retail on the Road
BY NICOLE LEINBACH HOFFMAN
Strolling through immersive retail environments is both calming and exciting to me. Whether walking through a curated boutique in Beverly Hills, California, browsing futuristic merchandising in China, or experiencing independent boutiques in Hawaii that cater to the simplest yet still meaningful of retail standards, this past year has delivered hours of retail joy that I have genuinely loved.
I revel in the simple pleasures of store design, product displays, ambience lighting, signage that speaks to consumers, and the overall choreography of retail spaces. Whether small or large, national chains or global iconic brands, or — my favorite — independent boutiques, there is always something to appreciate and learn from retailers beyond yourself.
The ingenuity and passion that countless creatives pour into their stores always amaze me, and I continue to seek moments of what I define as shoppertainment, the beautiful intersection of
retail and experience. And fortunately, my entire career has been immersed in this world.
In the past year, my retail explorations have taken me everywhere across the world. From the vertical gardens of New York City to the glistening showcases of Las Vegas to the dynamic stores of Vail, Colorado, and more, I have walked past thousands of storefronts and into hundreds.
From lackluster exteriors in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to traffic stopping storefronts just blocks away, a lot captures my attention. But some more than others truly keep it. What stood out most to me this year were three destinations that both redefined and reinforced retail for me.
Shanghai, China
Centuries-old marketplace traditions welcomed me upon my first night in this beautiful city, but on the days that followed I discovered there is so much more to China’s retail scene than
Nicole Leinbach Hoffman’s trip to China was organized through a work experience.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF NICOLE LEINBACH HOFFMAN
Retail stores in China have a less is more philosophy.
Live social selling takes place at a retail store in China.
historic traditions. From street vendors to luxury global brand stores to independent, curated boutiques, it was a city unlike any other I had ever experienced — both personally and from a retail perspective.
Among the more fascinating things I observed was that in China, many modern retail stores embrace a less is more philosophy, using minimalist displays and carefully curated product selections to create a sense of exclusivity, calm, and high-end appeal. The focus was on storytelling, giving each item space to stand out, and inviting customers to engage thoughtfully with inventory.
This was often done through color blocking, but more so it was simply done by displaying inventory without many layers within an actual display. In contrast, retail environments in the United States often prioritize abundance, with fuller shelves and larger product assortments designed to maximize choice, convey value, and show off as much as possible for increased sales.
Both approaches speak to distinct cultural expectations around consumption, luxury, and the shopping experience. However, as a consumer in China, I thoroughly enjoyed the simplicity of their retail displays.
However, they were somehow far from simple. They were captivating and welcomed me to pause and enjoy without confusion. It was refreshing, to say the least.
Contrary to this simple approach were many merchants who also had live social selling happening directly from their store floors. One example of this was at the Adidas store, where two different Adidas representatives were discussing items in rapid speed that
were being shared in real-time via social media platforms.
This method integrated consumers not physically in their stores, making them able to purchase items directly. And there was a handler pulling off items as they were being sold. Not fully understanding the Chinese language, I was still captivated by this experience, as they were all immersed into retail stores and became part of my shopping experience.
It was entertainment, but it was also educational. The reps showcasing items were highlighting ways to style them. To say I loved this would be an understatement. And I hope that in the years ahead, more U.S. based retailers begin to do this as well.
My trip to China was unexpected and organized through a work experience. It is a destination I hope to visit again simply for shopping alone. Now if only I could get over my obsession to do carry on when traveling and find room to bring a few things back home with me next time!
Maui, Hawaii
The island vibe was strong in Maui, and the storytelling of what felt like every store I walked into felt intentional and holistic to Hawaii’s roots of both island living and tourism. More than their displays and merchandising, however, genuine happiness was felt from store to store, because the people working were all living in Hawaii.
After a few days of settling into a mom and kiddo trip for spring break, the aloha mentality began to sink in. From simple nods of Hawaii culture being integrated into stores, such as the aloha tile
This tile greets customers at a store on Maui.
Even the mannequins at a store on Maui acknowledge Hawaii’s heritage.
Incorporating personal notes into a display like this retailer did on Maui is an affordable merchandising strategy for any store.
A feeling of happiness was apparent at the stores Nicole Leinbach Hoffman visited on Maui.
setting that greeted customers in a favorite store I visited, to personalized notes being shared and incorporated into a store display, the aloha spirit was strong.
You do not need to be in Hawaii to introduce this friendly and affordable merchandising strategy into your own store. It is a wonderful way to keep children engaged while mothers shop, have locals contribute to their favorite storefronts, and add dimension and fun through storytelling to your business. I loved everything about it!
What I also loved about Hawaii was the endless discovery of products. Unlike my trip to China, the American in me truly valued the hunt of discovery in most stores I explored. Layered displays caught my attention, and it is fair to say I spent more than my budget allowed on this beautiful island surrounded by both stores and sea.
A final favorite? It was a nod to local traditions and culture. Mannequins dressed to note Hawaii’s heritage became a favorite each day as I strolled through stores. After all, why blend in when you can so distinctly stand out? That is what both travel and retail are all about.
Beverly Hills, California
The Beverly Hills retail scene is the epitome of luxury, where global fashion houses, high-end boutiques, and cutting-edge concept stores line the iconic Rodeo Drive and beyond. Attracting affluent shoppers, celebrities, and trendsetters from around the world, I felt like I blended right in … even though admittedly, I did not.
More than just a shopping destination, Beverly Hills sets the standard for not just people watching but retail watching as well. And with two trips to this glitzy city over the past year, I was pleased to discover there were many amazing local stores beyond the expected global ones.
Among my favorite finds was the call to attention one store gave itself, BestGiftStoreEver.com as its URL, and a prominent window
sticker that made for intense curiosity. Had it not been after store hours and in the evening, I would have absolutely walked in.
Months later, I tell the story of this amazing store I never saw simply due to its refreshingly bold and confident call to action to visit it online. It made me wonder that if you have a store whose name may not capture a perfectly matched URL, is there another version that may stand out like this one has? Leave it to someone in Beverly Hills to make this happen!
Both my trips to Beverly Hills happened to fall around holidays. I loved the simple, festive nods to each holiday season that the stores brought to life.
From the Christmas tree skirt mannequin to the massive Christmas tree centrally positioned off Rodeo Drive to the street chalk sign that welcomed guests, the details add up when it comes to celebrating holidays. What could have otherwise been basic Beverly Hills days became vibrant due to the community applause of the holiday spirit. Then again, is Beverly Hills ever basic?
A final favorite from this beautiful community were the sidewalk tables outside many stores and grocers alike — not just restaurants. Nothing says spend and linger like giving your customers somewhere to do so.
Retail on the Road in Review
Inspiration is always around us. We simply must be open to it. Whether you are exploring a new city for pleasure or work — or even just stepping out of your own shop to explore a nearby store — every experience has the potential to spark a new idea.
Pay attention to what catches your eye, how a store welcomes you in, how staff interacts with you, or how a brand grabs your attention online and provokes you to want to visit them at a store. These moments can be great jumping off points for your own business.
The key is to take what inspires you, add your distinctive touch, and turn it into something that feels authentic to your store. That is how you create meaningful, memorable experiences your customers keep coming back for and ones you want to fuel repeatedly.
The call to attention this Beverly Hills, California, store gives itself attracts attention.
Nicole Leinbach Hoffman noticed tables outside of many businesses — not just restaurants — in Beverly Hills, California.
Nicole Leinbach Hoffman takes a picture of a mannequin that has a Christmas tree skirt while in Beverly Hills, California.
Older Employees Bring Experience, Maturity to Workplace
Struggling to fill positions or keep employees longer than a few weeks or months? Consider hiring older candidates.
According to an article by Bill Canady in Training magazine, leveraging the experience and skills of older workers can give your business a competitive advantage. For instance, older workers typically have well-developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and a proven work ethic. Additionally, their lifelong experience in the working world gives them a different perspective from younger workers, making them ideal mentors. Read the full article at The Age Advantage: Why Older Workers Are the Secret to Success
“Words matter, of course. But our energy often speaks louder than anything we say. Leadership isn’t just about what you do or say. It’s about how you make people feel.”
SPEAKER AND AUTHOR MIKE ROBBINS ON MIKE-ROBBINS.COM
Sponsor Local Events To Boost Visibility, Community Connections
If you are a small-business owner, you are bombarded with requests for donations and sponsorships for various fundraisers and community events. You obviously cannot support every single one.
But taking a strategic approach to events that align with your business not only boosts your standing in the community, but with customers. A recent article in Small Biz Trends says that sponsoring local events can deepen your connection to current and potential customers and lay the groundwork for future opportunities.
Other benefits? Networking with other business owners and community leaders, improved sales (especially if you are a lead vendor or marquee sponsor), and stronger customer loyalty. Read the full article at The Benefits of Sponsoring an Event in Your Local Community.
Macro Habits To Focus on the Big Picture
Micro habits are the small but necessary tasks that keep your day on track. Conversely, macro habits help you see the big picture.
Leadership strategist Mary Kelly explains in a recent Productive Leadership article that macro habits are broader in scope and more strategic, with the intention of helping people reach their goals over time. Kelly shares seven common macro habits to boost your career and life:
• Schedule weekly strategic reviews. Take 30-60 minutes each week to measure your progress related to reaching your goals. What went well? What needs some work? Focus on realigning your actions with your vision during this time.
• Commit to lifelong learning. Whether you read books or industry periodicals; take courses or webinars; attend conferences; or do some combination of the above, it is essential to stay current with trends, best practices, and other developments in your field.
• Practice long-term financial discipline. Develop and practice good habits around spending, saving, and investing to assure a stable financial future.
• Cultivate a leadership identity. Start thinking like a leader by mentoring others, developing effective problem-solving strategies, or managing initiatives.
• Prioritize health as a career asset. Getting the right amount of sleep, eating a balanced diet, and incorporating physical activity into your daily routine are essential for your overall well-being, which is critical to your effectiveness as a leader and business owner.
• Define and revisit your professional vision. Kelly suggests sitting down once a quarter and taking stock. Ask yourself, “What do I want next?” “What am I working toward?” And then strive to reach those goals accordingly.
• Build a network, not just contacts. Build your relationships with intention. Reach out to one person a week, whether it is someone new, someone you admire, or someone you have lost touch with. Send a handwritten note for a personal touch. Read the full article at The Power of Macro Habits.
It is true that you can become an expert in anything, but as with any new endeavor, it takes practice. Expertise does not happen overnight — rather, it takes a willingness to commit to the subject and hours of dedicated study.
That is according to LaRae Quy, a former FBI and counterintelligence agent, who wrote about the topic in a recent Smart Leadership article. Quy shares three effective ways to become an expert in your field of choice:
Draw More Customers With Friendly Events Building Expertise Takes Patience, Practice
• Have a genuine interest. If you are not genuinely interested in the subject you are studying, you will lose your motivation quickly. Having a genuine interest, or natural curiosity, about any topic will automatically make you eager to learn more about it.
• Embrace the suck. However, learning something new is never easy. Sticking it out through the challenging times will set you apart from those who gave up when the going got tough. Ask anyone who has mastered Excel, played at Carnegie Hall, or is at the top of their industry — they got there because they stuck with it.
• Stay focused. Build your knowledge base over time. Practice mindfulness to stay in the moment and reduce distractions.
Read the full article at 3 effective ways you can become an expert SmartBrief.
Friendly events are low-key, inexpensive ways to bring more people through your doors. According to a Small Biz Trends article, friendly events are gatherings with a relaxed atmosphere that encourage open communication and relationship-building among attendees.
Some examples would be workshops, product launches, meet-andgreets, and open houses. If you are a new business or operating on a small budget, try teaming up with another like-minded business and boost the profile of everyone involved.
Offer light refreshments and/or entertainment to further entice customers. Use various platforms to promote your event. A combination of social media mentions, email notifications for subscribers, and analog methods like in-store flyers should give customers plenty of opportunities to save the date on their calendars.
Display
Transitions
How To Make Them Change Before Customers’ Eyes
When that all important fourth quarter comes around, savvy retailers know it is time to make it or break it!
Your customers are busy decorating and preparing their homes for the cozy fall and winter holidays and purchasing gifts for loved ones. Make sure your shop looks its best by presenting beautiful and inspirational merchandise displays that motivate your customers to visit frequently and buy.
One unique way to bridge the barrage of holidays, decorating, and gift buying is to create a captivating transitional display that sets the tone for your shop through the fourth quarter — and beyond!
Determine a staging area for your display. It can be in a main display window, centralized area right inside the front door, or in the middle of your store. The challenge is to create a themed display that tells a story and seamlessly transitions from one season and holiday to the next without having to reinvent the display each time.
A perfect example is that lady down the street who leaves her Christmas tree up all year long and decorates it repeatedly for every season — you know the one! But with this idea, you set up a full scene that changes its look for the holidays.
The Transitional Garden
Create an outdoor garden display with a pair of Adirondack chairs and an outdoor table, along with a wooden arbor anchored on a dozen or so patio pavers. Start your display with a strong fall look by adding in real tree limbs with colorful faux leaves wired to the branches and scattered along the floor.
Add in cozy fall pillows and throws on the chairs and a pair of stoneware coffee mugs on a pretty tray, a basket of apples to the table, along with a coordinating runner and a fall-colored throw rug under the table. Incorporate a gathering of pumpkins and gourds around the base of the arbor and an autumn garland
Dinnerware from a store’s offerings, along with pumpkins and leaves, can create a great fall tablescape.
along the front of the arbor. This would be a suitable time to include some whimsical Halloween touches as well!
Transition your base display into a Thanksgiving look with turkey-motif décor on your side table, baskets of dried corn cobs, and lots of fall candles. Change out the pillows and throws and add some seasonal signs that say “Give Thanks” or a similar sentiment.
Move straight into Christmas by removing all the fall leaves but leave the bare branches. In front of the branches, place various sizes of faux evergreen trees bedazzled with tiny lights and ornaments. Add bright Santa and snowman pillows to the chairs, along with Christmas mugs and other gourmet food items you carry for the holidays such as hot cocoa mix, holiday candy, and nuts. Complete the look with some piles of wrapped gifts and finish with a dusting of faux snow over the entire scene.
The Transitional Room
Pull together an interior scene of a cozy dining room with a chandelier hanging over a dining table and chairs artfully set in front of a china hutch. Place a seasonal throw rug under the table.
Create an over-the-top fall tablescape by setting the table with tableware from your store offerings. Create a large autumn floral arrangement with amber, rust, and orange flowers, along with twisted branches cut from outdoors.
Finish the tablescape with pumpkins and gourds and a scattering of faux leaves. Fill the china cabinet with warm kitchenware and cozy fall textiles. Going forward, tweak your table by adding turkey and Thanksgiving décor.
Transition your display into Christmas by swapping out the throw rug for a holiday one. Clear the table and create a holiday scene complete with rolls of colorful wrapping paper, gift boxes, and ribbons and bows. Feature some of your best giftware on the
Use a cozy throw, pumpkins, and gourds to set a fall theme in a garden display.
A thermos, mug, and sunflowers set the tone for a fall tablescape.
table as if someone is actively wrapping gifts. The key here is to create a bit of controlled chaos.
Add a decorated and lit tree beside the china hutch and a lush pine garland over the top of the cabinet embellished with bright bows. Swap out the inside of the hutch with nutcrackers, Santas, candles, and other festive holiday décor from your shop. Later, you can remove the wrapping scene and set the table for a lavish holiday dinner complete with a holiday table runner, faux greens centerpieces, candles, and a scattering of shiny ornaments.
New Years and Beyond
Transition your garden display into a simple quiet winter look or begin to add little signs of spring. In my shop, I normally ignored the doldrums of winter and went straight into a cheery pre-spring look with pots of tulips and daffodils, for example. It is easy to set your dining room table up for a New Year’s party with champagne flutes, hats, noise makers, and scattered confetti. A fun idea would be embellishing your table with an assortment of different clocks and clock faces all set to midnight.
At this point, you will be ready for a fresh look in your display area. However, you could continue your transitions into Valentine’s Day and beyond.
Getting the Most Out of Your Display
Feature and make a big deal out of your transitional display in all your social media advertising. Get your customers interested and involved. Played correctly, they will stop by and shop frequently to see how your display changes with the seasons and holidays!
Anthony Turner is a designer, decorator, and visual merchandiser based in Richmond, Virginia. For 27 years, he owned and operated Feathernesters — a large home and garden, gift, and home goods shop that featured an 80-seat tearoom and bakery.
Make the transition from fall to Thanksgiving with some of these items.
Christmas treats and holiday decor take a store to its next season.
This in-store table setting features a Christmas theme.
“I just love decorating and finding unique items for others to enjoy in their homes.”
Brissonté Gifts & Home Decor
Blending the Vintage With the New
Colleen Perry wanted to own a vintage, décor, and gift boutique for as long as she can remember.
“I have worked in the antique business since I was a teenager — when my parents took me to my first antique auction,” she said. “I still have the tea set I purchased that day!”
For several years, Colleen and her father bought, repaired, and refinished vintage furniture and then sold it at shows. “I love beautiful things — especially items that have a history and a story to tell. Holding these items and imagining the many hands that have used and enjoyed them is a joy for me,” she said. “These are
Colleen Perry, Robert Perry, and Miss Belle.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF COLLEEN PERRY
the items that we should be decorating our homes with. We are the stewards of these amazing objects for the next generation.”
Colleen has helped countless people do this exact thing through the shop she owns in North Reading, Massachusetts, with her husband, Bob. The couple opened Brissonté Gifts & Home Decor in 2007.
She described Bob as her silent partner who is always cheering her on. Their son, Robert, is the store’s manager. Colleen said Robert understands the tech side of things, or she would still be issuing written receipts. Joining Colleen and Robert at the store is their shop dog, Miss Belle.
Brissonté’s first three years were spent in the Old Cotton Weaving House Mill in Lawrence, Massachusetts. They moved the business to North Reading in 2011 and then to their current location in that community in 2019.
“Initially, we had 2,400 square feet at our Lawrence store, then 1,200 in North Reading to 4,000 in our current location. We really
outgrew our 1,200-square-foot space, and when the location we are in now came available, we jumped to make it ours,” Colleen said.
The town of approximately 15,000 is about 20 miles north of Boston. Colleen said North Reading does not have a downtown. Instead, most businesses — including Brissonté — are located on Route 28, a highway connecting Massachusetts to New Hampshire.
They rent their space in a strip mall, and she said the location has stayed the same. “We have added tables to the front windows to create window displays, added lighting and pretty chandeliers. Besides fresh paints and some wallpaper here and there, I have not done any remodeling projects,” Colleen said. “I use older furniture pieces to create interesting displays with lots of visual interest.”
Brissonté is the third business for her, and Colleen said the gift shop’s name was taken from a book about imaginary places. “I just love decorating and finding unique items for others to enjoy in their homes,” she said. “It’s as if I have my very own supersized dollhouse that I get to play in, aka, decorate every day.”
Bath and body items are among the product categories at Brissonté Gifts & Home Decor.
Unique gifts for couples getting married are sold at Brissonté.
Fashion accessories are among the items found inside the store.
There are items for pets — and their parents — in the gift shop.
Chalk paint is sold at Brissonté, with workshops offered as well.
Custom ZIP code products are popular at the gift shop.
Colleen has always had an appreciation for old items but enjoys discovering new products as well. “I still love new items and always keep my eye on the trends, and when I see those items that speak to me, I purchase them for the shop and intermix the vintage and the new together. It’s a wonderful blend,” she said.
The
Shop’s Mix, Events
Candles, accessories, tabletop, greeting cards, wedding items, jewelry, baby items, furniture, custom ZIP code pillows and glasses, vintage and antique décor, decorative wreaths, floral arrangements, and anything else that strikes Colleen’s fancy are found inside the store. “These are categories of items that really sell well for us and we have found that customers are always looking for,” she said.
What they offer has changed since they opened in 2007. “We now try to focus more on what we know will have a fast sellthrough,” Colleen said. “We have also added a few vendors to the store, which has helped with our inventory costs and gives our customers local artisans to buy from.”
Brissonté ’s star products are currently Swan Creek candles, Inis fragrances, greeting cards, tea-related products, and their custom ZIP code pillows, stemware, and coasters.
The business has an online store, and Colleen said Robert has been the lead on getting the website up and looking beautiful. They ship products anywhere in the United States, with free shipping at $65. They offer free delivery in the North Reading area and free in-store pickup.
The back of the store has a space for events. “We offer workshops like Annie Sloan Chalk Paint classes, painting workshops, jewelry making workshops, calligraphy, chunky blanket, sea glass jewelry, watercolor classes, basket weaving, decoupage, and more,” she said. “We are always looking for new workshops to host for customers. We also offer the workshop (space) to local groups like the North Reading Garden Club, the library, and for fundraising events.”
Brissonté’s typical customers are women in their late 30s to 80s. Colleen said many of their customers have second homes on Cape Cod or by the lake. Some spend the winter in Florida. Occasionally, a few men stop by to buy something for their wives, she said.
Customers frequently compliment Colleen on the displays, products, and the way the store is organized. “New customers especially are always amazed at the size of the store and the product selection. It’s deceiving when you first walk in the store,” she said, “because it’s very long.”
Colleen said what makes Brissonté different from other stores in the area is their customer service, personal attention, and ability to take the time to greet customers, get to know them, and make their shopping experience something they want to repeat. “Many customers have my cellphone number and can text me with their gift needs, and I will have it prepared and ready for them to pick up quickly,” she said. “We do many custom orders with our embroidered ZIP code pillows, etched stemware, custom dish towels, and coasters. We also offer custom wreaths and floral arrangements and hand-painted signs.”
She said the gift shop has wonderful customer feedback on Google and Facebook. They seek to offer an inspiring shopping experience where customers get individualized attention and leave with a gift that is beautifully packaged.
“You’re not just a person at our store,” Colleen said. “We try very hard to know you by name, to greet you, and make your day a little brighter when you leave.”
She believes Brissonté is successful because it is not “your average store.” They offer more than big-box stores could ever hope to, and she thinks customers appreciate that.
Facing Challenges
Colleen says every day is a challenge and some days are exhausting. They found 2008 to be a tough year, as well as starting over in a new town in 2011, moving to a new location in 2019, and coping with the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Colleen Perry enjoys mixing vintage and new products in the displays throughout her store.
Their latest challenge is dealing with the impact of online shopping and the addiction some consumers have to free shipping and next-day delivery. She said it has taken over the retail landscape. “How does a small, local business compete with this kind of powerhouse?” Colleen asks. “I don’t know that I can.”
They are facing a turning point right now. “Our business has continued to drop every year since COVID-19. We are optimistic. We are implementing some great ideas,” Colleen said. “However, if customers don’t return to shopping locally and in the small, retail stores in their communities, I don’t see much hope for small business and Main Street USA.”
She said the face of retail has changed dramatically during the 18 years they have been in business. Not as many people walk through their doors today. Colleen finds this worrisome, as well as the number of empty storefronts she sees on her street.
“There’s a lot to be said for free shipping and the click-and-ship, receive it tomorrow mentality, but is that really what we want for our communities?” she asks. “It is a fact that 60% of every dollar spent in a local store stays in that town. Those are the businesses that we need to shop in and support. Those are the businesses that support our communities day in and day out.”
Marketing Efforts
Colleen shared some of Brissonté’s most effective marketing strategies. Their Secret Sale is one of them. Customers receive an Easter egg, playing card, and gold coin — with a secret discount of 15%-50% off their entire purchase.
A free stenciled tote with the shop’s name on it is offered to those who spend $50 or more. She said they reach out to new homeowners with a tote of free gifts and a coupon to Brissonté. In addition, there are fundraising days where a charitable organization or local school can receive 10% back — up to $500 — when people shop at the store on a specific day.
Colleen says email is a wonderful way to contact regular customers, letting them know when a promotion or sale is taking
place. She finds that social media continues to be an excellent way to reach new and existing customers and said workshops and unique events bring new customers to the store. “I connect with my community through our local Chamber of Commerce, our fundraising events, our workshops, and social media,” she said.
Having a small business is a lot of work, Colleen said. “It’s rewarding in so many ways, but it’s a hard taskmaster, and you have to be willing to put in the time and the energy to create that business that you want customers to come back to over and over again,” she said.
Her advice to those who’ve recently opened a shop is to not give up. “Remember why you opened your business. It doesn’t happen overnight. It takes years of hard work to build up your reputation in your community,” Colleen said. “Get involved with your local Chamber of Commerce. Reach out to local nonprofits and the schools in your town. Talk to them about fundraising events. Get known and the only way to do that is to get out there and pound the pavement.”
FACTS AT A GLANCE
Business Name: Brissonté Gifts & Home Decor
Location: 157 Main St., Suite D, North Reading, MA 01864
Website: brissonte.com
Email: brissonte@gmail.com
Phone: 978-207-1853 or 978-902-1855
Employees: 2
Size: 4,000 sq. ft.
Product Categories: Candles, tabletop, wedding, greeting cards, stationery, baby, vintage, furniture, antiques, accessories, jewelry, home décor, chalk paint, frames, wall art, signs, and bath and body
Social Media: facebook.com/brissonte; instagram.com/brissonte
POS System: Shopify
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