Smart Retailer March/April 2025 by JP Media LLC

PRODUCT FOCUS

Provide

Discover

MARCH/APRIL 2025

BUSINESS SENSE

32 Wholesale Cash & Carry

Warehouses: Add More

Inventory in Your Store by Visiting One

Follow these tips to make the most of your shopping trip.

43 Merchandising

When It Is Quiet

Create a buzz in your store by bringing fresh life to displays and walking the store as a customer.

45 Business Briefs

Find your 3D leadership style; top point-of-sale systems for 2025; how to choose the right AI tool for your business; tips to obtain a successful work/life balance; shoplifting on the rise.

DISPLAY & DESIGN:

48 Reimagine, Reinvent

Learn how household tools, suitcases, and more can be used to tweak the displays in your store.

RETAILER SPOTLIGHT:

51 Tadpoles & Tiddlers

Cheryl Lemke opened her children’s boutique in the summer of 2007. The gift shop is in a suburb of Akron, Ohio, and has practically doubled in size since then. Tadpoles & Tiddlers is known for its curated selections, and its complimentary signature gift boxes and wrap are part of its brand.

IN EVERY ISSUE

8 Editor’s Note 10 Welcome Exchange 55 Trade Show Calendar

58 Advertiser Index ON THE COVER: CWI Gifts offers a selection of patriotic and Made in USA items like florals, lanterns, candles, and signs. Shop the best seasonal and everyday selections at www.shopcwi.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.

Baby, Baby, Baby

My oldest baby just turned 30. A new product on the market when she was born was something my husband and I were unaware of — an odor-free diaper pail for disposable diapers.

We learned about it after my best friend gifted us with one. Wanting to give us something practical, Theresa asked a work colleague for ideas and chose that diaper pail from among them. I appreciated the approach she took to finding a useful gift for us as new parents. And I remember the homemade banana bread she gave me as well!

We got a lot of use out of that diaper pail for our young daughter and added a second one in our home the following year after our son was born.

My daughter was the first grandchild for both my parents and in-laws. My husband and I introduced our families to that novel product and likely handed down at least one of them to someone when we were done with it.

Curious about that particular diaper pail brand, I decided to check it out online. Oh, how it has changed in the last three decades — not only in its appearance but also in its options!

A few of my closest friends are grandmothers. I discovered how much the baby industry has changed and continues to when I chose gifts for the baby showers of their daughters-in-law.

One of the baby registries included lots of sustainable, eco-friendly products. There were also plenty of items for this couple who planned to remain active once their daughter arrived.

This issue of Smart Retailer is sure to aid those of you in search of additional inventory for the baby and children areas in your gift shops. See pages 27-29 for details about a variety of products in this category.

And then read how Cheryl Lemke came to open a children’s boutique in Ohio. Blessed with 13 grandchildren, she is featured in Retailer Spotlight, and her story shows how experiences can shape what one does for work.

When choosing what types of items you want to carry in your store, remember to keep grandparents in mind as well. Many grandparents are taking the place of child care centers these days, whether it is full time or one or two days a week.

Others are in search of books and toys to have on hand when their grandchildren visit. Plus, there are always customers like me who are looking for something meaningful — or maybe even practical — to give to an expecting parent!

VOLUME 33, NUMBER 3

Diana Jones President/Publisher, ext. 151

D iana J @jpmediallc.com

Angie Landsverk Editor, ext. 112

Angie L @jpmediallc.com

Hannah Kelley

Associate Editor H annah K@jpmediallc.com

Lisa Nelson

Advertising Sales Manager, ext. 114 Lisa N @jpmediallc.com

Sara Wait

Art Director

Contributors:

Sara Karnish

Nicole Leinbach Hoffman Amy Meadows

Smart Retailer

P.O. Box 5000 Iola, WI 54945

Advertising Dept: (715) 445-5000 ext. 114

Subscriptions: (855) 367-4819

Phone: (715) 445-5000

Fax: (715) 445-4053

smart-retailer.com

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Our store anniversary has become our annual sales event. I would love to boost this with some creative marketing ideas. Any thoughts on ways to do this?

There is nothing better than an anniversary that also helps to generate store sales! Congratulations on the accomplishment of being a well-loved retailer.

To help drum up creative ideas to support your annual anniversary sales event, consider the following tips.

Expand Your Anniversary Beyond the Single Day

While your actual anniversary deserves a single day spotlight, leverage this milestone with expanded marketing efforts beyond just this one day. Consider how digital marketing can drive in-store shoppers by using a seven-day email countdown program that provides customers with details about what they can look forward to during your actual anniversary event and shares incentives for that day only.

For example, you can have promotions on certain items for one day only during your seven-day countdown — then highlight additional yet different inventory during your actual sales event. Beyond offering product incentives, you can make each day a fun activation that welcomes customers to visit your store for experiences, such as a free gift with purchase, bring a friend to shop day, mimosa mornings, meet a vendor, and more. The enthusiasm of the week can help build up to your big day and generate sales beyond a single event.

Leverage Community Partnerships for Increased Customer Outreach

Your store helps bring your community to life, so why not have your community help support your anniversary? Leveraging the details of your anniversary sales event in combination with the history of your store, reach out to your local Chamber of Commerce, Main Street partners, and local media to help generate visibility for your business.

In addition, reach out to nearby and closely aligned businesses to pass out postcards in advance of your anniversary event to ensure all potential customers within your local demographics have the chance to be part of this experience. Partnering with like-minded yet non-competitive businesses is among the best ways to generate new customers and remind existing customers about what is going on in your store. This is a low-cost effort that can have strong returns.

Another tip? Welcome these same business partners to be part of an in-store anniversary gift package through gift cards or product donations for one or a few lucky customers.

Use this in your marketing and then plan to do a random drawing at the conclusion of your event. Not only is this a wonderful

way to bring visibility to your neighboring businesses who have also supported you in return, but it helps you collect names and data from customers while offering an elevated activation during your anniversary sales event.

Use Customer Testimonials To Gain Excitement, Sales, and Displays

Store anniversaries are a reminder you are doing something right — and awesome as well! Leading up to your anniversary, let those who have helped keep your business alive and thriving be part of your success by sharing a fun memory, favorite find, general testimonial, or well-deserved congrats on pieces of paper cut out like quote boxes.

In advance of your big sales event, invite customers to share their memories or offer their best wishes via email, social media, and, of course, in store. Once collected, use these as part of your window displays or in-store merchandising to help bring applause, cheer, and customers to your store.

Not only will this give you a creative way to promote your anniversary sales event, but it will also alert other customers about just how incredible your business is. Extend these testimonies via digital marketing as you lead up to the big day by creating social media posts and email blasts that highlight what your loyal customer base has shared.

Finally, embrace the celebration while undoubtedly working hard along the way. Whether celebrating one year, five years, or 20 years, being a retailer is a labor of love that truly deserves to be rewarded with both sales and cheer.

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.

LED Deer and Trees in Greenhouse

An elegant 13" h. greenhouse contains a herd of deer standing on snow in front of lighted evergreen trees and a glowing streetlamp. Made of glass and plastic. Two AA batteries not included.

Melrose International melroseintl.com marketing@melroseintl.com (217) 800-282-2144

Black

Twiggy Bird

The 100% thick-woven jacquard cotton towel is made in Portugal. It features a black bird and bold orange stripes. Mierco, Inc. mierco.com info@mierco.com 425-891-5670

Small Bison/Buffalo Weather Vane

The weather vane is carved by hand from sustainably harvested and locally sourced Atlantic white cedar. Comes on a custom fabricated steel mount with carved mountains. Has upcycled horseshoe horns. 13" l. x 12" h. x 2" d.

Three Points Design, Inc. threepointsdesign.store orders@threepointsdesign.com 757-426-2149

Edgewood Hall Holiday Collection

This mushroom clip is one of the many styles of ornaments from the Edgewood Hall Holiday collection by designer Eddie Ross. The full collection outfits the tree from top to bottom in a rich, calm color scheme.

The Whitehurst Company, LLC thewhitehurstcompany.com info@thewhitehurstcompany.com 585-473-4790

Highland Cow With Flowers Felted Ornament

The udderly moo-velous cow has a soft brown body, long cream horns, and a fluffy tuft of hair on her head. Accented with a necklace made of two felt daisies. Can display freestanding on a flat surface or hang.

Bright Ideas brightideaswholesale.com support@brightideaswholesale.com 614-916-3840

Green Metal & Glass Terrarium Shelves

A set of two, the glass terrariums with metal frames sit on sturdy metal stands. A wire rack at the bottom provides room for extra storage or display.

Col House Designs colhousedesigns.com custserv@colhousedesigns.com 800-777-1442

Handmade Stoneware Rustic Sheep

These ceramic sheep are each handmade and unique and are indoor-outdoor compatible for all seasons. They come in random body patterns — no two will be alike. Approximately 5" w. x 4" to 5" t.

White Squirrel Clayworks, LLC whitesquirrelclayworks.com info@whitesquirrelclayworks.com 440-207-0535

Honeycomb

Cat Shelf

Made of high-quality birch plywood and nontoxic paints, each hexagon comes unassembled with all of the hardware and printed assembly instructions. 17.7" x 15.35" x 10.6".

Enjoy The Wood enjoythewood.com yuliia.shukurova@ enjoythewood.com (38) 063-658-0767

Baby Elephant

This adorable baby elephant is handcrafted from metal discs. Offering a flower to those around, it lends itself to both indoor and outdoor decor. 20" x 13" x 12".

Steel Heart, Ltd.

steelheartltd.com

steelheartltd@gmail.com 815-943-3465

Wisteria Hummer Outdoor Canvas Art

New for 2025, this print is both UV-protected and waterproof. It can be placed in any location with direct exposure to the elements. West of the Wind, LLC outdoorartcanvas.com westofthewind@sbcglobal.net 800-399-0412

Custom Vintage Map Serving Tray

A unique, regionally inspired gift or home accent, this tray is crafted in Finland from FSCcertified birchwood and finished with a matte layer of melamine. Available in four sizes: small (11" x 5"), medium (11" x 8"), large (16.5" x 12.5”), and round (15.7").

Daisy Mae Designs faire.com/direct/daisymaedesigns info@daisymaedesigns.net 380-390-5542

Wear Your Roots

More than 10 million of these soft T-shirts have been sold across the U.S. and USVI. Products have unisex sizing and are preshrunk. Home State Apparel homestateapparel.com sales@homestateapparel.com 913-238-0513

Good Vibes Zipper Pouches

Spread positivity with these practical pouches, featuring minimalist designs perfect for gifting. Available in two sizes: 6.25" x 8.5" and 7.5" x 10.5".

Smiles + Heart, LLC smilesandheart.com livejoyfully@smilesandheart.com 715-204-4057

All-Natural Laundry Powder

Enjoy clean clothes and a clean conscience with new all-natural laundry powders that are as safe for people as they are for the environment. Available in a wide range of fresh fragrance options. One small scoop cleans an entire load of laundry.

Slippery Elm by Wyx Brands slipperyelm.com sales@wyxbrands.com 800-878-5840

Purple Rainbow Unicorn 3D Hoodie

Whimsical 3D hoodies are more than just cozy — they’re a full-on adventure. With 3D details like embroidered eyes, spikes, tails, and even button-up features, these hoodies bring imagination to life.

Doodle Pants doodlepants.com info@doodlepants.com 800-299-3572

Louisa IntelliSOLAR

Ceramic Birdbath

The Louisa is a cobalt-blue ceramic birdbath with hand-laid floral tiles. Includes the patented IntelliSOLAR panel, which allows water to stream soft ambient sounds. During cloudy weather, the backup battery will take over.

Smart Living Home & Garden smartlivinghg.com sales@smartlivinghg.com 813-343-5770

Happy Birthday Candle With LED Accents

Celebrate with a 2.5 oz soy wax candle in a glass vessel, featuring LED lights that glow when warmed. Adorned with “Happy Birthday,” balloons, and confetti, it creates a magical ambiance.

Pavilion

wholesale.paviliongift.com info@paviliongift.com 800-508-2681

Tulip Coasters

Coasters have hand-stenciled tulip art available in yellow, red, pink, and orange. The durable braided jute is thick and protects surfaces well. Sold individually. 5" dia.

Capitol Earth Rugs earthrugs.com sales@earthrugs.com 800-562-1885

Crescent Bag

Blending style and functionality, this bag is crafted from fair-trade cotton canvas. A spacious main compartment and exterior and interior pockets keep things secure and accessible. Lined with a pop of fun with traditional African fabric. Designed in Chicago, made in Nairobi. Ecodunia ecodunia.com connect@ecodunia.com 773-793-1112

Personal Sand Mandala Kit

Perfect for relaxation, stress relief, and self-expression, this kit includes everything needed to craft a custom sand mandala.

Creative Adventures creativeadventureskits.com customercare@ getcreativeadventures.com 866-488-2738

ZipString LUMA

Kids (8+) and adults can do amazing tricks both indoors and outdoors, day and night, with this glow-in-the-dark wonder that flies through the air. The USB-C rechargeable battery keeps it going for over an hour at a time.

ZipString zipstring.com info@zipstring.com 917-836-8142

Screen Shade Magnetic Phone Umbrella

The umbrella blocks sun, reduces glare, and lessens heat. A ring at the base acts as a handle for holding and a table stand for hands-free use. Fully flexible hose allows 360-degree adjustment.

OCG Products shoptechcandy.com retail@ocgproducts.com 205-437-3395

Spring Retail Packaging

Discover these new spring collections with colorful, exclusive designs. Available for bags, boxes, and tissue paper, adding fresh, seasonal charm. Locally owned and operated company.

Nashville Wraps nashvillewraps.com info@nashvillewraps.com 800-547-9727

Hollywood Nutcracker Nine Ladies Dancing

The ninth installment in the enchanting Hollywood Nutcrackers series is 18" tall. It captures the spirit of dance and festivity, featuring intricate details that depict the grace and charm of nine ladies in their elegant attire.

Kurt S. Adler, Inc. kurtadler.com info@kurtadler.com 212-924-0900

Flour Sack Gift Bag

This versatile bag can be filled with hostess gifts and then converted into a flour sack towel by clipping the stitches, starting from the top. 100% cotton, lint-free, highly absorbent, and fast drying.

Alice’s Cottage alicescottage.com info@alicescottage.com 301-766-7344

Thunderbird Wing Sauce

This is a brand-new version of the company’s original tequila-infused sauce with a Louisiana-style roux, giving it a thick and creamy consistency.

Bootlikker Hot Sauce bootlikker.com sales@bootlikker.com 404-281-1174

Mix-Ins

Mix with simple ingredients to make tasty dips, rubs, marinades, cream cheese spreads, or dipping oils.

Frog Park Herbs II frogparkherbsii.com sherrykellogg@ymail.com 315-272-3222

Tall Mason Jar Wood Lid

Crafted from high-quality mango wood, this lid fits snugly on standard mason jars, providing a stylish and secure seal for preserves, spices, or dry goods.

CTW Home Collection ctwhomecollection.com shop@ctwhomecollection.com

800-433-5054

Cow Tea Towel

A bold, farm-fresh cow design is featured on a durable cotton towel. Two Little Fruits twolittlefruits.com Ohhey@twolittlefruits.com 303-832-0752

Beach Dip Mix

Escape the ordinary and dive into the extraordinary. This elevated ranch dip is packed with real cheddar cheese and a seasoning blend that’ll have people craving more.

Country Home Creations chcdips.com info@chcdips.com 800-457-3477

Beer Can Chicken Rub

This popular rub adds so much flavor to grilled and rotisserie chicken, it’s a game changer for any backyard party or barbeque.

Wiggidy Wayne Sauces WiggidyWayneSauces.com info@wiggidywaynesauces.com 716-525-4479

Roasted Garlic Buffalo Sauce

Think of this roasted-garlicinfused buffalo sauce as an elevated game-time classic. Bell Buckle Country Store / Captain Rodney’s CaptainRodneys.com Info@Bellbuckle.com 931-359-8000

Hand-Made in America

Hand-made products are always popular with customers; our pottery is hand-made right here in Jefferson, Wisconsin.

Functional and Fun

oils, providing a one-of-a-kind aromatherapy experience that leaves users feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.

hydra Brands

wholesale.hydrabrands.com

wholesale@hydrabrands.com 859-785-8500

Twin Tail Mermaid With Banner

Hand carved from 2" planks of sustainably harvested and locally sourced Atlantic white cedar, the mermaid is also painted by hand. Includes all necessary hardware for wall hanging. Can be customized. 36" l. x 30" h. x 5" d.

Three Points Design, Inc. threepointsdesign.store orders@threepointsdesign.com 757-426-2149

Patriotic & Made in USA

Flag EkkoLight

Great for any patriotic display, this large EkkoLight has vibrant red, white, and blue lights. Can be placed in windows or freestanding. Has a UL plug. 15.5" h. x 23" l.

Melrose International melroseintl.com marketing@melroseintl.com (217) 800-282-2144

Rosie the Riveter Soap

Tough job? It’s no match for this 2 oz. bar of soap with a rosewater jasmine scent. Not tested on animals. Made in USA.

The Unemployed Philosophers Guild

philosophersguild.com wholesale@PhilosophersGuild.com 718-243-9492

1776 Flag Tent Crossbody Bag

Crafted from recycled military tents, this crossbody bag features a printed patch on the front flap, a top zipper, and one interior zip pocket. It is fully lined.

Vintage Addiction vintage-addiction.com sales@vintage-addiction.com 570-847-9441

Blackjack Dealer Puzzle

This 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle with a soft touch is made in the USA.

ellembee gift ellembeegift.com info@ellembee.com 248-520-7467

Union Trio Birdhouse

Why have just one birdhouse when you can have three on one platform? Made from reclaimed barnwood in eastern Pennsylvania, each is hand-painted blue, red, or white. Designed with drainage, ventilation, and clean-out. Hole is 1.25".

Home Bazaar, Inc. homebazaarinc.com info@homebazaarinc.com 516-827-7771

Tavern Puzzle Collection

Mind-boggling brainteasers come from a Long Island blacksmith. Steel disentanglement puzzles provide challenging entertainment for people ages 13 to 113. Thirty-nine designs available, ranging from simple to complex, plus accessories. Handcrafted in USA. Tucker-Jones House, Inc. tavernpuzzle.com info@tavernpuzzle.com 631-642-9092

Flag Maps-July 4th Card

Inside, the card reads, “Happy Fourth of July!” Printed on demand in the USA. NobleWorks nobleworksinc.com orders@nobleworksinc.com 800-346-6253

Your cat will have hours of fun with this kick n’ lick catnip toy. Alice’s Cottage Hagerstown, Maryland www.alicescottage.com info@alicescottage.com 301-766-7344

Thoughtful, artist-inspired gifts and decor for every season, every reason!

WT Collection Norfolk, Virginia www.wtcollection.com info@wtcollection.com 757-855-0800

The best selection of wood signs made in the USA! Fast & reliable shipping. Sawdust City LLC Eau Claire, Wisconsin www.sawdustcitywholesale.com sales@sawdustcitywholesale.com 800-528-6008

Simplifying the way you cook, gift, and entertain since 1991. Wind & Willow Mount Vernon, Missouri windandwillow.com customerservice@windandwillow.com 888-427-3235

We take pride in quality, handcrafted products made in the USA.

Keystone Wholesale Cash & Carry Lancaster, Pennsylvania www.LancasterWholesaleMall.com info@lancasterwholesalemall.com 717-295-2570

Grown and Crafted in Carlisle, PA Meadowbrooke Gourds Carlisle, Pennsylvania wholesale.mbgourds.com sales@mbgourds.com 717-776-3770

BEER, BUTTER, BAKE

Just add beer and butter for a delicious homemade bread! Halladay’s Harvest Barn Bellows Falls, Vermont www.halladays.com sales@halladays.com 802-463-3471

Created With Color

Original designs are applied directly to the surfaces of weatherproof cast stone products.

Kay Berry, Inc. kayberry.com info@kayberry.com 800-426-1932

Distressed Wooden Eagle Sitter

The painted wooden sitter features a chunky layered cutout design. A flat bottom allows the sitter to stand freely. 6" w. x 5.75" h. Made in USA.

CWI Gifts shopcwi.com sales@shopcwi.com 800-666-5858

Patriotic Product Collection

This collection with baseball and patriotic themes features a new shirt, hats, and a can koozie.

Southern Fried Design Barn shop.southernfrieddesign.com info@southernfrieddesign.com 615-547-8818

Vintage Americana Pillows

Big, bright, and beautiful pillows are offered in three sizes, with the largest being reversible. Made from 100% cotton, actual stuffed pillows, not inserts.

Pine Creek shoppinecreek.com shoppinecreek@aol.com 570-558-6291

USA Tumbler

Made in the USA, this tumbler has the perfect amount of on-the-go sparkle.

The Queens’ Jewels thequeensjewels.net megan@thequeensjewels.net 314-695-22498

Stars & Stripes Hearts

Heart-shaped decorative bowl fillers are each accented with a bell.

Raggedy Junction raggedyjunction.com raggedyjunction@gmail.com 203-650-6200

Americana Mushroom Plant Pokes

 Memorial Day Flowers Card

Handcrafted 6" x 6" greeting cards have quilled art on the front and come with a blank insert.

Quilling Card, LLC quillingcard.com orders@quillingcard.com 508-405-2888

Poke a little patriotic fun into houseplants and floral displays with this set of three wooden cutout mushrooms. They have attached metal stakes and feature three different patriotic designs.

Col House Designs colhousedesigns.com custserv@colhousedesigns.com 800-777-1442

USA Adjustable Woven Bracelet

All bracelets have an 18-karat goldplated closure and include a Southern Fried Design Barn charm.

Southern Fried Design Barn shop.southernfrieddesign.com info@southernfrieddesign.com 615-547-8818

Mierco

European Linens

info@mierco.com www.mierco.com 888-277-8838

Sustainably handcrafted in an art studio from salvaged beverage bottles.

Smart Glass Recycled Jewelry Tucker, Georgia www.smartglassjewelry.com sales@smartglassjewelry.com

Our Garlic Shredders make a great gift item for your store! Twice Baked Pottery, LLC Jefferson, Wisconsin twicebakedpottery.com twicebakedpottery@yahoo.com 920-605-2112

A modern take on an ancient art form for creative teens and adults.

Creative Adventures Lowell, Massachusetts www.creativeadventureskits.com customercare@getcreativeadventures.com 866-488-2738

“A Permanent Wholesale Cash & Carry Show”

The Warehouse at Paxton Paxton, Illinois

FB/IG: @Thewarehouseatpaxton www.thewarehouse.website AskUs@TheWarehouse.website 217-379-7033

Wholesale showroom dedicated to American-made furniture and home decor

Lancaster County Showcase Gap, Pennsylvania LancasterCountyShowcase.com info@LancasterCountyShowcase.com 717-687-8150

Our Handmade Flatware Is Jewelry for the Table

Votive Candle Stave

The votive stave includes four glass tea light holders. Made in the USA from a genuine wine barrel with metal band accents and a rich walnut stain. Gift Essentials giftessentials.com edkuras@giftessentials.com 800-288-0029

Primitive Americana Jingle Bell Pillows

With classic stars, calico-style floral, and ticking stripe fabrics, this set of three pillows has a vintage charm. Each includes a jute tie with a rustic bell.

Sizes range from 5.5" to 10" w. x 3.5" to 7" h. x 1.5" to 2.5" d.

The Hearthside Collection thehearthsidecollection.com contact@thehearthsidecollection.com 614-626-8493

Americana Decorative Beads

Bring a touch of vintage-inspired charm to any space. Strung together in a classic combination of red, white, and blue, each wooden bead carries a timeworn finish.

CTW Home Collection ctwhomecollection.com shop@ctwhomecollection.com 800-433-5054

Primitive American Star Trivet

This 10" round jute trivet has a brightly colored red, white, and blue dyed border. The star design is hand stenciled, making each unique. Quality braided jute is durable and protects surfaces while doubling as beautiful décor.

Capitol Earth Rugs earthrugs.com sales@earthrugs.com 800-562-1885

Distressed Metal Americana Firecracker Birdhouse

Made from metal and painted with stars and stripes, the birdhouse includes a metal hanging loop with jute rope. The bottom features an opening with a rubber stopper and the front has a round opening. 11" h. x 6.5" dia.

CWI Gifts shopcwi.com sales@shopcwi.com 800-666-5858

God Bless America Hanging Jar Decoration

Add patriotic inspiration with these mason jar lanterns for indoor or outdoor use. A perfect holder for a variety of items: candles, potpourri, bouquets, etc. Divinity Boutique nicolebrayden.com orders@nicolebrayden.com 440-349-9933

Tart Cherry Spread

Bright and tart cherries are the stars of this easy-to-enjoy fruit spread. Lemon accents the sweetness of the cherries, making it perfect to enjoy with savory cheese and charcuterie, yogurt parfaits, breakfast breads, ice cream, and more. The Gracious Gourmet thegraciousgourmet.com info@thegraciousgourmet.com 917-705-2616

Sterling Silver Earrings & Necklace With Turquoise

The sleek 0.925 sterling silver earrings and necklace include genuine Kingman turquoise drops. Made in Montana. Buckaroo Bling, LLC faire.com/direct/buckaroobling hello@blingboheme.com

Smart Retailer magazine’s one and only goal is to help your gift business succeed.

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Brand new company. USA Made Products. Run by all women. Unique and fun.

Bad Bunny Designs Plain City, Ohio

www.badbunnydesigns.com badbunnydesigns@aol.com 614-504-6400 smart-retailer.com • 855-367-4819

Stuffed Standing Uncle

George Doll With Flag

 Beautiful Month Card Cards are handmade on 100% recycled paper.

Lydia’s Land, LLC lydiasland.com lydia@lydiasland.com 856-983-7258

 Blue Patriotic Hearts Zipper Pouch

This handmade zipper pouch is multifunctional. The unique fabric print features hearts in deep blue, red, and off-white, which are set against a deep blue background with red stars. Bags of a Feather bagsofafeather.com bagsofafeather@gmail.com 413-848-2373

Uncle George is a freestanding primitive Americana doll featuring a fluffy white beard, felt top hat, and folk-art inspired painted eyes. He wears a “tea-stained” stars-andstripes outfit and holds a homespun flag. 10" w. x 18" h. x 6.5" d. The Hearthside Collection thehearthsidecollection.com contact@thehearthsidecollection.com 614-626-8493

 Hand-Painted Bears

Each piece from this artist is unique due to the different wood slabs that are chosen. Painted by hand using the wood’s natural shape and imperfections. Pigs, gnomes, seasonal, and other forms also available. Made in USA.

Keystone Wholesale Cash & Carry LancasterWholesaleMall.com info@lancasterwholesalemall.com 717-295-2570

USA Flag Recycled Tent Market Tote

The market tote is handcrafted from an authentic recycled military tent. It is fully lined and has a zipper top closure, one interior pocket, and rolled leather handles with a comfortable 12.5" drop.

Vintage Addiction vintage-addiction.com sales@vintage-addiction.com 570-847-9441

 Packaging Made in the USA

This company offers more than 77% USA-made premium packaging, including bags, tissue paper, boxes, and custom-printed products. Designed for quality, sustainability, and style.

Nashville Wraps nashvillewraps.com info@nashvillewraps.com 800-547-9727

Bottle Openers

Products include bottle openers, can openers, wall-mounted openers, keychain openers, and more.

The Cymba Bottle Opener Company

cymba.com info@cymba.com 413-342-0729

Freedom to Dream Tote Bag

Significant dates in history are printed on this tote bag with a library card design.

Fly Paper Products Literary Gifts flypaperproducts.com info@flypaperproducts.com 989-493-1804

Bee Kind Bee

A quality product made in the USA, this bee is handcrafted out of solid wood and painted by hand.

Keystone Wholesale Cash & Carry

LancasterWholesaleMall.com info@lancasterwholesalemall.com 717-295-2570

My Sweet Peach Bourbon BBQ Sauce

The barbecue sauce has a sweet and savory taste with fresh peaches and bourbon. It is best paired with pulled pork, ribs, and chicken. It’s one of the company’s top sellers.

Wiggidy Wayne Sauces WiggidyWayneSauces.com info@wiggidywaynesauces.com 716-525-4479

Presidential Pets Mug

This mug features famous animals who played with the White House children, sat patiently beside presidents in the Oval Office, and grazed on the White House lawn.

The Unemployed Philosophers Guild philosophersguild.com wholesale@PhilosophersGuild.com 718-243-9492

Comfort Grip Soil Scoop

Beloved by gardeners for its unmatched versatility and durability, the scoop is a 100% USAmanufactured tool designed for years of reliable use. Features a premium stainless steel blade and a comfortable handle.

Garden Works gardenworksusa.com info@gardenworksusa.com 425-455-0568

One Nation Card

“Happy Independence Day” is written on the inside. Printed on demand in the USA.

NobleWorks nobleworksinc.com orders@nobleworksinc.com 800-346-6253

Bonfire Red Silk Infinity Scarf

This soft, semisheer, 100% Habotai silk scarf is an elegant statement piece in vivid bonfire red streaked with orange. Hand dyed in small batches in a home studio in Illinois. Infinity, square, and rectangle shapes available in two sizes each.

Ten Thousand Dandelions tenthousanddandelions.com hello@tenthousanddandelions.com

Real Wood Gifts

Handmade wood signs have sayings for any occasion. Made in the Midwest.

Sawdust City, LLC

sawdustcitywholesale.com

sales@sawdustcityllc.com 800-528-6008

Child's Hat

Aside from the faux suede adjustable cord and tonal brim binding, this brown-andpink hat with a cattleman’s crease is made with 100% paper. It has a 3.75" brim and is UPF 50 rated.

San Diego Hat Company

wholesale.sandiegohat.com info@sandiegohat.com (760) 888-868-0588

Baby & Kids Gift Wrap

Charming wrapping paper comes in trending designs. Choose from various sizes, reversible options, designer Italian styles, and eco-friendly, USA-made papers. These options deliver quality and versatility for every occasion.

Nashville Wraps nashvillewraps.com info@nashvillewraps.com 800-547-9727

Baby Boy Pirouette Card

Pirouette cards are a standout gift option. The “Baby Boy” card showcases playful elements like toy trains and tiny blue booties.

Santoro santorotrade.com sales@santoro-london.com (+44)(0) 20-8781-1104

Children & Babies

Mama and Baby Doll

A mother doll with soft, curly hair tied up with a pink bow wears a floralpatterned dress and dainty pink shoes. She holds her baby in a cozy carrier.

MON AMI monami-designs.com wholesale@monami-designs.com 404-414-7461

My Sweet Puppy

The playful puppy claps his paws and flaps his ears to the timeless children’s song “If You’re Happy and You Know It.” Squeeze his foot to get him moving.

Cuddle Barn cuddle-barn.com

cbsales@cuddle-barn.com 888-883-1885

 Taggies Sniggles Snake

Ribbon tags adorn the plush snake made of super soft fabric with embroidered details and the accompanying crinkle toy and character blanket. The blanket has a citron-green satin lining. Items feature original Mary Meyer artwork.

Mary Meyer marymeyer.com info@marymeyer.com 802-365-7793

 Enchanted Owl

Fine Art Print

Add a touch of magic and whimsy with this giclée fine art print featuring a beautiful owl adorned in harmonious pinks, greens, and blues.

Mossy Blue Paper Studio mossyblue.com traci@mossyblue.com 206-605-7984

Youth Hat

Hats for children are available in gray, light pink, and baby blue.

Earth Sun Moon esmtees.com ddavis@earthsunmoon.com 888-458-1687

Harvest Colorway

From bright mornings to cozy afternoons, this sweatshirt is all about adding color to toddlers’ wardrobes. The vibrant color combinations keep little ones looking stylish, while the soft, organic cotton keeps them feeling comfortable.

Peace House Studio peacehousestudio.com kwb@peacehousestudio.com

Flamingo 3D Hoodie

Cozy 3D hoodies like this inspire adventure and creativity. Doodle Pants doodlepants.com info@doodlepants.com 800-299-35727

Mookie Monster

This lovable, aqua-colored monster features a big grin, bright yellow details, a couple of teeth, and striped horns. Perfect for engaging and delighting little ones. Made with super-soft fabrics with original Mary Meyer artwork.

Mary Meyer

marymeyer.com info@marymeyer.com 802-365-7793

Curious Fox Fine Art Print

Bring the wonders of nature into a child’s room with this giclée fine art print. It features a sweet little fox mesmerized by a delicate blue butterfly.

Mossy Blue Paper Studio mossyblue.com traci@mossyblue.com 206-605-7984

 New Baby Candle

Celebrate sweet morning cuddles and late-night swaddled lullabies with this 13.75 oz. candle. Made with a soy-wax blend and 100% cotton wick. Burn time is 60-80 hours. Top notes: geranium, ylang-ylang. Mid notes: baby powder, rose. Base: vanilla, tonka bean, musk. Nontoxic, cruelty-free, and free of lead, plastics, paraben, and phthalates. homesick homesick.com jen.willis@winbg.com

Life Is Better With Grandma Onesie Screen printed by hand in Michigan, this onesie is made of 100% cotton. ellembee gift ellembeegift.com info@ellembee.com 248-520-7467

 Bunny Baby Booties

Plush booties are intended for ages 0-6 months and come in a beautiful gift box. Made from luxurious recycled polyester.

MON AMI monami-designs.com wholesale@monami-designs.com 404-414-7461

The 8" x 10" x 4" matte gift bag is printed on premium 250 GSM paper and has foil, embossing, interior printing, and ribbon handles. Jillson & Roberts jillsonroberts.com jeff.lipman@jillsonroberts.com 800-233-0070

Spots and Dots

Designed for babies 6 weeks to 6 months, these wordless picture books use high-contrast images to provide stimulation as babies begin to make visual connections with the world around them.

National Book Network nbnbooks.com liz@nbnbooks.com 614-579-7593 Baby Elephants Medium Gift Bag

Little Lamb

This 24" x 24" x 2" mixed-media painting with a printed border makes an excellent addition to a child’s room. Aqua-Marque sue-furrow.pixels.com suefurrow@comcast.net 540-389-0931

Adorable Gift Wrap for Little Joys –Perfect for Baby & Kid Celebrations! Nashville Wraps Hendersonville, Tennessee www.nashvillewraps.com info@nashvillewraps.com 800-547-9727

Contact Lisa at 715-445-5000 x114 LisaN@jpmediallc.com

Kids Gardening Set

Engage kids in the outdoors, whether it’s in the garden or a sandbox. Set includes a trowel, fork, rake, watering can, gardening gloves, and canvas tote.

Gift Essentials giftessentials.com edkuras@giftessentials.com 800-288-0029

HELPING YOUR GIFT BUSINESS SUCCEED

360 Anyway Training Toddler Sippy Cup

A controlled-flow design helps reduce the risk of choking and minimizes spills, making it perfect for children who are learning to drink independently. BPA-free. Made in USA. Custom logo imprinting available.

Retro Jellies, Inc.

retrojellypurses.com jellypurse@gmail.com 310-329-2888

Baby Bodysuit

Baby Buggy

This 6" x 6" greeting card is handcrafted using the ancient quilling art form. Comes with a blank insert.

Quilling Card, LLC quillingcard.com orders@quillingcard.com 508-405-2888

Perfect for baby shower gifts or bringing newborns home from the hospital, garments are available with either “home.” or “born.” screen printed on an image of your state.

Home State Apparel homestateapparel.com sales@homestateapparel.com 913-238-0513

Clothesline Baby Card

Printed in the USA on high-quality, recycled paper, this card is illustrated by Emma Block. Inside verse: We’re so excited you’re here! Congratulations to the family.

Biely & Shoaf Co. bielyshoaf.com orders@bielyshoaf.com 877-957-0940

Dough Bowl Candles

Quality, hand-poured dough bowl candles are made in the USA with all-natural, clean-burning wax and essential-oilbased fragrance. A wide variety of scents available for every season.

Keystone Wholesale Cash & Carry

LancasterWholesaleMall.com info@lancasterwholesalemall.com 717-295-2570

Goat’s Milk Soap

Elevate bathing routines with this sixpack of goat’s milk and olive oil soaps — a delightful collection of luxurious, handmade soaps designed to pamper skin and the senses. Fragrance selection: Lavender, Egyptian Musk, Mango Papaya, Almond, Black Raspberry Vanilla, and Island Citrus. The Grecian Soap Company greciansoap.com steve@greciansoap.com 951-339-8661

Taper Candles

These taper candles have a sleek design and clean, beautiful colors. Come in boxes of 12. Available in red, ivory, light blue, black, light green, orange, dark green, and white. 10" t. x 0.875" dia.

Biedermann and Sons biedermannandsons.com orders@biedermannandsons.com 847-446-8150

Candles & Scents

Mama Needs a Minute Soy Candle

Experience this beautiful, relaxing mix of lavender, white eucalyptus, and spearmint — perfect for anyone needing a moment to reset. The brand encourages self-love, self-care, and tapping into the peace of the present moment through affordable, hand-poured, 100% soy candles.

Right NOW Candle Co. rightnowcandleco.com rightnowcandleco@gmail.com 815-757-3701

Aromatherapy Bath Soak

This aromatherapy essential oil blend with Epsom salt and dried flowers brings the spa into any home. Soak, relax, and enjoy! Lasts for approximately four baths. Cait + Co nicolebrayden.com orders@nicolebrayden.com 440-349-9933

Cacao Noir Natural Perfume

This all-natural fragrance is free from synthetics and dyes. Blended by hand. Fragrance notes: cacao, armagnac, jasmine, vetiver, booze. Alix Clo alixclo.com info@alixclo.com 415-205-1540

Aromatic Reed Diffuser

 Aromatherapy Gift Tin

Explore a variety of scents with this essential oil diffuser tin. It’s the perfect introduction to the world of essential oils.

Blooming Light Botanical Alchemy, LLC bloominglightvt.com BloomingLightVT@gmail.com 802-778-0921

Aromatic reed diffusers offer maximum fragrance cast and passive air freshening in a variety of coastal and everyday scent options. The highcapacity fiber reeds never need to be flipped. Diffusers come fully boxed, and refill bottles are available.

Slippery Elm by Wyx Brands slipperyelm.com sales@wyxbrands.com 800-878-5840

Campfire Story

A warm, smoky candle with cedar, vanilla, and spice.

Two Little Fruits twolittlefruits.com Ohhey@twolittlefruits.com 303-832-0752

Seascapes Scented Sachets

These new sachets feature the sparkling scent of Inis and images of beautiful coastlines in countries around the world. Enjoy uplifting fragrance and celebrate beaches near and far.

Inis the Energy of the Sea inis.com orders@inis.com 888-543-6320



Butterfly Soy Wax Reveal Candle

This 6 oz. candle in a matte blue butterfly-shaped container features a jasmine scent and lead-free cotton wicks. As the wax melts, floral illustrations become visible. The lid includes a jute rope handle.

Pavilion wholesale.paviliongift.com info@paviliongift.com 800-508-2681



Everyday Country Cottage Collection

New two-wick everyday wrapped jar candles (15 oz.) in four popular fragrances have charming themed designs and brushed black lids. Available individually and in prepacks.

Crossroads Original Designs

crossroadsfamily.com

sales@crossroadsfamily.com 866-247-0156

A family owned domestic manufacturer of premiumscented fragrance products. Crossroads Original Designs Bucyrus, Ohio www.crossroadsfamily.com

sales@crossroadsfamily.com 866-247-0156

Pink Lemon Candle

This 7 oz. vegan candle is handmade with 100% plant-based wax and natural fragrance derived from essential oil. Blended with dried botanicals and poured by hand into a glass scotch tumbler. Cotton wick is used for clean burning. No color dye is added. Phthalate-free.

Wax Apothecary

waxapothecary.com

info@waxapothecary.com 323-844-3929

Candle Packaging

With high-quality gift and shipping boxes, paper shred, ribbons, and stickers, this is a complete candle packaging solution designed to protect and beautifully present candles. Perfect for both retail displays and secure shipping.

Nashville Wraps nashvillewraps.com

info@nashvillewraps.com 800-547-9727



Espresso Martini Soy Tin Candle

Enjoy the invigorating scent of this specialty, happy-hour-inspired candle. Fragrance notes: coffee, caramel, sugar, vanilla, and milk. The hand-poured 8 oz. soy candle is vegan, gluten-free, paraben-free, and phthalate-free and has a 25-hour burn time.

Papersalt papersalt.com

orders@papersalt.com 206-659-5227

Wholesale Cash & Carry

Warehouses

Retailers stock their shelves in a variety of ways throughout the year. One way is by making a trip to a cash & carry warehouse.

Make the most of such a shopping trip with information, tips, and advice from warehouses in various parts of the country. As always, call ahead or check their websites before planning a visit for updates related to their hours and events.

Warehouse 151

Location 1645 N. Spring St., Suite 210, Beaver Dam, WI 53916

Website warehouse151.weebly.com

Facebook facebook.com/Thewarehouse151

Email support@warehouse151.com

Phone 920-356-5003

Hours Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Occasional Sundays (watch Facebook for updates)

WHAT IS YOUR REGISTRATION PROCESS? MAY STORE OWNERS PREREGISTER ON YOUR WEBSITE?

Shoppers must preregister on our website with this link: warehouse151.weebly.com/become-a-customer.html The application will be reviewed to verify the business and reseller permit before approval.

WHAT ARE YOUR PROCESSES FOR UNLOADING AND LOADING?

We have drive-up parking for our customers’ convenience. We offer boxes, bubble wrap, and bags. We strongly encourage our customers to package their own purchases, as they know the distance and driving conditions they will incur. We are willing to help with that process. We suggest wrapping all breakables. We have recently seen customers bringing their own plastic totes to help with packing. The totes provide great stability for travel. We are available to help our customers load their purchases.

WHICH COMPANIES DO YOU CARRY?

Craft Wholesalers, Inc. featuring Col House, Hearthside, and Bright Ideas; Tellon; Accents by Julie; Santa’s Wholesale Supply; Décor International; CG&K; Miles Mercantile;

Add More Inventory in Your Store by Visiting One

Classic Farmhouse Candles; Em Vintage 101; Summer Snow; Hanna’s Handiworks; Andrew Wholesale featuring PD Home; JanMichaels Art and Home; Crooked Halo; Briar Gifts; GAR Wholesale; Grandma Fishy’s; RagSpun Studio; Simple & Sipping; Ginger Blue; Woodland Country Creations; Wholesale Home Décor; Griffin Home Décor featuring Wing Tai; Driftless Studios; Oak Street Wholesale; Rusted Lace; Rubbish to Rubies; Cat Creek Primitives; Pine Creek; Beehive Body Co; Benson Marketing; Krane, LLC featuring Lancaster & Vintage; Shea’s the Wildflower Company; Wi-Wear; Treasure Island; Accessorize Me; Refinery 86; Vicktoria Nicole; 2 Friends & A Blender; Ugly Duckling Furnishings; Pine View Lake Farms; Hobby Farm; Crafts & Creations by Teresa; and Farm Charm.

PROVIDE DETAILS ABOUT OPEN HOUSES AND SPECIAL EVENTS YOU HAVE PLANNED IN 2025.

We are excited about moving the warehouse to a new longterm location this year and hosted our grand re-opening on March 9-10.

We have eight remaining open houses this year. They are two-day events and begin on a Sunday. For each event, we ensure all our vendors stock their booths full. We offer a light lunch, snacks, and beverages. Depending on interest, we will host temporary vendors for some events.

Swing Into Spring is April 13-14, Let’s Taco About Home Décor is May 18-19, Here Comes Fall Y’all is June 22-23, Summer Send Off is July 20-21, Happy 5th Anniversary Warehouse 151 is Aug. 17-18, It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year Christmas Preview is Sept. 21-22, (Maybe) It’s Cold Outside Christmas Restock is Oct. 19-20, and Thankful for You is Nov. 16-17.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD STORE OWNERS KNOW BEFORE THEY ARRIVE?

Our staff is friendly and willing to help our customers locate products. We make every effort to make sure the checkout process is smooth and that their merchandise is handled with care from start to finish. We recently started taking orders via phone/Messenger and are offering shipping services.

Do not worry if you fill your cart too full and all of it will not fit in your vehicle. We can hold your paid for merchandise for your next visit or can ship it to you.

Customer service is our focus and includes making sure we take care of our vendors and keep up with restocking and booth maintenance. Stop in and see us soon. We are here to help.

Shop owners find garden-themed décor inside Warehouse 151.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ARIANNE LONGSETH

The Warehouse at Paxton

Location 131 N. Railroad Ave., Paxton, IL 60957

Website thewarehouse.website

Facebook facebook.com/thewarehouseatpaxton

Email askus@thewarehouse.website Phone 217-379-7033

Hours Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Warehouse at Paxton carries a variety of companies.

First Saturday of the Month 9 a.m. to noon

WHAT IS YOUR REGISTRATION PROCESS? MAY STORE OWNERS PREREGISTER ON YOUR WEBSITE?

Registration is available online from our website and/or on location with proper documentation.

WHAT ARE YOUR PROCESSES FOR UNLOADING AND LOADING?

Loading occurs outside our main entrance doors. Flat carts and shopping carts are loaded as purchased items are packed. Our associates pack merchandise and may assist customers in loading their vehicles.

WHICH COMPANIES DO YOU CARRY?

We carry A Cheerful Giver, Amish Furniture & Home Décor, Ani’s Market, Art By Rozanne, Barnwood Sign Co., Barnyard Calico, Beauty From Pine, Benson Home, Benson Marketing

Group, Black Crow Candle Co., Black Sheep Creations, Blossom Bucket, Brick By Brick, Bright Ideas, CG&K, Cheesecloth & Buttermilk, Christmas Tradition, Classic Farmhouse Candles, Col House Designs, Coley & Me, Coopers Mill, Country Home Accents, Country Lantern, Crossroads Original Designs, DB Vintage, Décor International, Delighted Home, Down on the Farm, Dry Creek Cabins, Embellished, Expressions In Design, Family Roots, GAR, Garcia’s Design, Grace & Glory Giftware & Greetings, Green Acres Primitives, Green Pastures Wholesale, Griffin Home Décor, Hanna’s Handiworks, Hattie’s Hand-dids, Home Collection by Raghu, Homespice Décor, JanMichaels Art and Home, JF Link & Son, Junk Diva, Kathy’s Blooming Creations, Kendrick Home, Kietzman’s Korner, Little Munchkin, LKR Sport, Meltdown Crew + Co., Miles Mercantile, Monahan Papers, My Country Cupboard, Nature’s Nest, Oak Hill Studio, Oak Street Wholesale, Old Goat Primitives, Olde Time Country, One More Thyme, PD Home & Garden, Pine Creek, Primitives & Porringers, Primitives at Crow Hollow, Raggedy Junction, Ragon House, RJH Woodworking, Robyn’s Nest, Sarah’s Gourmet Pretzels, Shea’s Wildflower Company, Simpler Times, Steel Heart, Sugar Creek Wholesale, Tellon, The Hearthside Collection, The Kettledrum, The Old Mercantile, The Rusty Nail, Timber Oak Candles, Tobacco Barn Primitives, Vickie Jean’s Creations, Village Farmhouse, Warm Glow Candle Co., Wholesale Home Décor, Wooden Elements, and Wren In The Willow. We carry local vendors as well.

PROVIDE DETAILS ABOUT OPEN HOUSES AND SPECIAL EVENTS YOU HAVE PLANNED IN 2025.

The March Into Spring Open House was March 17. The April Showers Open House is April 28, the 8th Anniversary Open House is June 9, Bring on Fall Open House is Aug. 4, the Christmas Open House is Sept. 15, and the 9th Annual Cookies & Cocoa Open House is Oct. 27. A spring event is to be determined in December.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD STORE OWNERS KNOW BEFORE THEY ARRIVE?

The most important thing to know is to leave plenty of time on your first visit as there are three buildings and approximately 100 companies represented with so many different products to see.

Here’s how we help stores like yours keep their showrooms stocked with products from America’s finest craftsmen:

VIRTUAL TOURS

Discover and buy products from various manufacturers in one, quick and easy session. Products can be shipped via Keystone Transport or the carrier of your choice!

YEAR - ROUND SHOWROOM

Visit our wholesale showrooms in beautiful Gap, Pennsylvania where you can buy right out of the showroom or gather valuable contacts.

CONNECTION MAGAZINE

A valuable collection of industry insights, contacts, and new product ads. Subscribe for free at LancasterCountyShowcase.com/The-Connection

NO BROKERAGE FEE

Become a Priority Pass Member and buy products at rock bottom wholesale prices.

MANUFACTURER DIRECTORY

Go to LancasterCountyShowcase.com to find more information about our 130+ American manufacturers!

The StockRoom of Kentucky

Location 3686 Greensburg Road, Buffalo, KY 42716

Website stockroomofky.com

Facebook facebook.com/StockRoomKy

Email kdwholesaleky@yahoo.com

Phone 270-325-2969

Hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST Monday by appointment 4-6 p.m. Two Sundays a month

WHAT IS YOUR REGISTRATION PROCESS? MAY STORE OWNERS PREREGISTER ON YOUR WEBSITE?

Store owners can send business credentials online, via email, through direct mail, or bring them on their visit.

WHAT ARE YOUR PROCESSES FOR UNLOADING AND LOADING?

We have ample parking for trailers, trucks, etc. We have large overhead doors, dollies available, and help you load your vehicle. At the time of checkout, we wrap and box items to ensure safe delivery back to your retail space. We provide boxes, bubble wrap, paper, etc.

WHICH COMPANIES DO YOU CARRY?

We carry Griffin Home Décor, Young’s, Myra Bags, Primitives by Kathy, JanMichaels Art and Home, Candle Warmers Etc., and Wing Tai Collection. Those are some of the major brands. We also carry some local brands — Calligraphy Creations, Making Good Scentz, and The Sweet Shoppe are just a few of them.

PROVIDE DETAILS ABOUT OPEN HOUSES AND SPECIAL EVENTS YOU HAVE PLANNED IN 2025. Our Spring Open House was Feb. 2. We are hosting a weeklong March Market. Our 5th Annual Birthday celebration is July 7, Fall Open House is July 28, Christmas Open House is Sept. 14, and Red Monday is Nov. 3.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD STORE OWNERS KNOW BEFORE THEY ARRIVE?

Our times are Eastern even though we are on the line for the Central Time Zone. Make sure you have enough time — there is lots to see.

We will pack your product for safe travel. Our warehouse has a laid-back atmosphere, and we try to make you feel at home.

Leave some time in your schedule to check out our small town of Hodgenville, grab a burger, and see Abraham Lincoln.

products.

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The Columbus Warehouse

Location 3131 S. Hamilton Road, Columbus, OH 43232

Website thecolumbuswarehouse.com

Facebook facebook.com/thecolumbuswarehouse

Email info@thecolumbuswarehouse.com

Phone 614-839-8444

Hours Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Closed on Saturdays before events

WHAT IS YOUR REGISTRATION PROCESS? MAY STORE OWNERS PREREGISTER ON YOUR WEBSITE?

We require two forms of identification verifying how our buyers resell in the gift industry, along with a copy of their vendor license or resale license. The two forms we look for could be anything with their business name, such as a picture of the storefront, past invoices from a wholesaler, business card, website, social media, etc. This can be done online at thecolumbuswarehouse.com

WHAT ARE YOUR PROCESSES FOR UNLOADING AND LOADING?

We have a spacious parking lot for large vans, trailers, and trucks. When you arrive, we will have large carts and flat beds to ease shopping.

We take great care to wrap and box your purchases for safe travel. Our staff is available to help load your purchases, and we encourage our buyers to pull close to the door to ease loading.

WHICH COMPANIES DO YOU CARRY?

We have more than 80 different companies. For the most up-to-date listing, visit our Facebook page, which has the vendor list.

The StockRoom of Kentucky carries major and local brands.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KELLY FINLAY

The Columbus Warehouse provides inspiration

how to display

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE COLUMBUS WAREHOUSE

The Warehouse at Paxton

We are a premier, one-stop destination for wholesale buyers, bringing together approximately 100 wholesale companies under one roof. With our carefully curated collection of juried American-made products and select imports, The Warehouse at Paxton stands as a unique shopping experience for businesses looking to elevate their inventory.

Monday - Friday 9AM - 5PM • First Saturday of the Month 9AM - 12PM

A Cheerful Giver - Amish Furniture & Home Décor - Ani’s Market - Art By Rozanne - Barnwood Sign Co - Barnyard Calico - Beauty From Pine Benson Home - Benson Marketing Group - Black Crow Candle Co - Black Sheep Creations - Blossom Bucket - Brick By Brick - Bright Ideas

CG&K - Cheesecloth & Buttermilk - Christmas Tradition - Classic Farmhouse Candles - Col House Designs - Coley & Me - Coopers Mill Country Home Accents - Country Lantern - Crossroads Original Designs - DB Vintage - Décor International - Delighted Home Down on the Farm - Dry Creek Cabins - Embellished - Expressions In Design - Family Roots - GAR - Garcia’s Design

Grace & Glory Giftware & Greetings - Green Acres Primitives - Green Pastures Wholesale - Griffin Home Décor - Hanna’s Handiworks Hattie’s Hand-dids - Home Collection by Raghu - Homespice Décor - JanMichaels Art & Home - JF Link & Son - Junk Diva

Kathy’s Blooming Creations - Kendrick Home - Kietzman’s Korner - Little Munchkin - LKR Sport - Meltdown Crew + Co. - Miles Mercantile Monahan Papers - My Country Cupboard - Nature’s Nest - Oak Hill Studio - Oak Street Wholesale - Old Goat Primitives - Olde Time Country

One More Thyme - PD Home & Garden - Pine Creek - Primitives & Porringers - Primitives at Crow Hollow - Raggedy Junction - Ragon House

Rick’s Pecker Palace - RJH Woodworking - Robyn’s Nest - Sarah’s Gourmet Pretzels - Shea’s Wildflower Company - Simpler Times Steel Heart - Sugar Creek Wholesale -Tellon - The Hearthside Collection - The Kettledrum - The Old Mercantile - The Rusty Nail

Timber Oak Candles - Tobacco Barn Primitives - Vickie Jean’s Creations - Village Farmhouse -Warm Glow Candle Co Wholesale Home Décor - Wooden Elements - Wren In The Willow - Plus Additional Local Vendors

www.thewarehouse.website

PROVIDE DETAILS ABOUT OPEN HOUSES AND SPECIAL EVENTS YOU HAVE PLANNED IN 2025.

Swing into Spring was March 3, It’s Fall, Ya’ll is Aug. 4, the Christmas Open House is Sept. 29, Stock Up is Nov. 2-7.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD STORE OWNERS KNOW BEFORE THEY ARRIVE?

Stop by our coffee bar for a warm beverage or bottled water. We strive to give buyers ideas for merchandising and are available to answer any questions during their shopping experience. We encourage preorders on certain items, especially for those traveling from far away. We are also located just three miles from another large wholesaler — CWI Gifts. We recommend stopping by there as well when visiting The Columbus Warehouse.

CWI

Gifts

Location 4600 S. Hamilton Road, Groveport, OH 43125

Website shopcwi.com

Facebook facebook.com/CWIGifts

Email sales@shopcwi.com

Phone 800-666-5858

Hours Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. to noon

WHAT IS YOUR REGISTRATION PROCESS? MAY STORE OWNERS PREREGISTER ON YOUR WEBSITE?

Buyers should bring a valid sales tax exemption form with their vendor’s license or tax number. Registration is available on our website, shopcwi.com, if they want to preregister.

WHAT ARE YOUR PROCESSES FOR UNLOADING AND LOADING?

We have large, open parking lots and convenient loading areas that make it easy to load and maneuver larger vehicles and trailers. We provide shopping carts and flat beds for their use while shopping.

Boxes and bubble wrap are available at checkout, if needed, to pack and transport your items safely. We are committed to providing customers with outstanding customer service and a positive shopping experience. Our helpful staff will assist with loading, if needed, and our multiple checkout registers will get store owners on their way quickly and efficiently.

WHICH COMPANIES DO YOU CARRY?

Buyers find the full product lines from CWI Gifts, which includes our family of brands Col House Designs, The Hearthside Collection, and Bright Ideas. CWI is also a distributor for Saybrook Lane, and we stock their complete line of florals.

We have a selection of quality furniture from Amish and Ohio vendors in farmhouse chic and country primitive finishes. At our warehouse, buyers find products available from more than 100 various vendors, including local artisans from Ohio and surrounding areas. Some items are exclusive to warehouse shoppers and not available online.

Buyers will discover great finds during their warehouse shopping trip.

PROVIDE DETAILS ABOUT OPEN HOUSES AND SPECIAL EVENTS YOU HAVE PLANNED IN 2025.

We have three open houses scheduled with a fun County Fair theme. The first one was March 3-4. The others are Aug. 4-5 and Sept. 29-30

Our open houses are always fun events, with prizes, raffles, interactive games, light morning refreshments, and delicious homemade free lunches provided to customers. Buyers can beat the crowd by shopping our early bird hours that start at 6 a.m. during open house events.

In November, CWI will host a Tent Sale Event. We will set up a large tent in the parking lot with special low prices on a variety of popular items. Customers can shop the tent sale and have the benefit of extra discounts when they shop inside our warehouse. Food trucks will be on-site for lunch options. Sign up for our emails to be notified of the Tent Sale Event dates and more details.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD STORE OWNERS KNOW BEFORE THEY ARRIVE?

They should wear comfortable shoes and bring a large vehicle to transport their purchases. We have a free warehouse app to easily help buyers locate where items are in our cash & carry warehouse.

Our showroom area featuring CWI, Col House Designs, The Hearthside Collection, and Bright Ideas, showcases new product arrivals, and bestsellers are on display.

There are hotels close by where shop owners can spend the night if they need extra shopping time. There is a link on our website with information on discounted rates offered by one of the local hotels.

The full product lines of CWI Gifts, and its family of brands, are found at its cash & carry warehouse.

CWI’s Sister Companies

Bright Ideas

Location 4600 S. Hamilton Road, Groveport, OH 43125

Website brightideaswholesale.com

Facebook facebook.com/brightideasllc

Email support@brightideaswholesale.com

Phone 614-916-3840

Hours Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. to noon

Col House Designs

Location 4600 S. Hamilton Road, Groveport, OH 43125

Website colhousedesigns.com

Facebook facebook.com/colhousedesigns

Email custserv@colhousedesigns.com

Phone 800-777-1442

Hours Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. to noon

The Hearthside Collection

Location 4600 S. Hamilton Road, Groveport, OH 43125

Website thehearthsidecollection.com

Facebook facebook.com/thehearthsidecollection

Email contact@thehearthsidecollection.com

Phone 614-626-8493

Hours Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. to noon

Buyers fill their carts at Audrey’s – Your Heart’s Delight.

Audrey’s – Your Heart’s Delight

Location 55 Mull Lane, Lebanon, PA 17046

Website www.audreys.com

Facebook facebook.com/YourHeartsDelight

Email info@audreys.com

Phone 717-865-6524

Hours Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST

WHAT IS YOUR REGISTRATION PROCESS? MAY STORE OWNERS PREREGISTER ON YOUR WEBSITE?

Visit Audrey’s website and complete the registration form. During the registration process, they will need to upload a copy of their state resale tax document for approval. Gift shop owners can preregister on our website.

WHAT ARE YOUR PROCESSES FOR UNLOADING AND LOADING?

Audrey’s has a covered drive-thru area where they can pull their vehicle right up to the sliding glass doors for easy loading. Our warehouse staff will pack the merchandise carefully into boxes to avoid any type of damage. Our warehouse staff will also help with the loading of merchandise into their vehicles. Customers do not need to bring their own dollies.

WHICH COMPANIES DO YOU CARRY?

We carry Audrey’s merchandise only.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD STORE OWNERS KNOW BEFORE THEY ARRIVE?

Please preregister or bring along a copy of their state resale tax document when they visit our cash & carry warehouse. Audrey’s cash & carry warehouse is open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.

JanMichaels Market

Location 700 N. Hanover St., Elizabethtown, PA 17022 Website janmichaelsartandhome.com Facebook facebook.com/ JanMichaelsArtandHome Email info@janmichaelsartandhome.com Phone 717-366-4641

Hours Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Occasional weekend hours throughout the year

WHAT IS YOUR REGISTRATION PROCESS? MAY STORE OWNERS PREREGISTER ON YOUR WEBSITE?

They can easily register on-site with a copy of their sales tax license or business license. They can also register on our website and email a copy of their sales tax or business license prior to arriving. Registration takes about five minutes.

WHAT ARE YOUR PROCESSES FOR UNLOADING AND LOADING?

We have a large parking lot with plenty of trailer parking. We help with loading carts, dollies, and flatbed carts.

WHICH COMPANIES DO YOU CARRY?

We offer more than 100 product lines, including JanMichaels Art and Home, Lancaster Vintage, Ragon House, Hearthside, and Wholesale Home Décor. We expanded in

2024-2025 with handmade vendor booths to offer even more affordable, unique products.

PROVIDE DETAILS ABOUT OPEN HOUSES AND SPECIAL EVENTS YOU HAVE PLANNED IN 2025.

Our Clearance Open House (furniture blowout) was March 3-4. Our 3rd Anniversary Celebration and Open House (sales, giveaways) is July 21-22. We are participating in the Lancaster County Craftsman Co-Op Tour (preregister for giveaways and extra savings) Aug. 18-19, and our Christmas Cookies and Cold Cider Open House is Oct. 6-7.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD STORE OWNERS KNOW BEFORE THEY ARRIVE?

We are located just off Route 283 in Lancaster County — a short drive from the other wholesale cash & carry warehouses in Lancaster.

If a store owner cannot make it, we offer Zoom shopping appointments and ship directly to them. All Zoom orders are shipped the next business day.

Lancaster County’s Wholesale Mall

Location 180 Greenfield Road, Suite 1, Lancaster, PA 17601

Website lancasterwholesalemall.com

Facebook facebook.com/keystonewholesale Email info@lancasterwholesalemall.com Phone 717-295-2570

Hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

First Saturday of the month 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHAT IS YOUR REGISTRATION PROCESS? MAY STORE OWNERS PREREGISTER ON YOUR WEBSITE?

They can register online or in person. We require a copy of their sales tax license and a signed PA Exemption Form.

WHAT ARE YOUR PROCESSES FOR UNLOADING AND LOADING?

We have a large parking lot, so we encourage buyers to bring trucks and trailers. There are three dock doors available for loading, in addition to our ramp at the main entrance.

Plenty of carts and flatbeds are available for their use on each visit. We are more than happy to help them wrap and box their products to ensure they get them back to their store

JanMichaels Market offers more than 100 product lines.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JANMICHAELS MARKET Lancaster County’s Wholesale Mall focuses on carrying products that are made in the United States.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LANCASTER COUNTY’S WHOLESALE MALL

safely. We take pride in our customer service and are happy to help where we can.

WHICH COMPANIES DO YOU CARRY?

We have more than 80 manufacturers focusing on quality products made in the United States. Products include tinware, candles, wreaths, florals, signs, canvases, birdhouses, wrought iron, gourds, soaps, canned goods, dolls, and much more.

PROVIDE DETAILS ABOUT OPEN HOUSES AND SPECIAL EVENTS YOU HAVE PLANNED IN 2025.

Our 20th Year Anniversary Celebration is May 5-6. Our open house, along with the AT Imports tent sale, is July 21-22.

Customer Appreciation Days are Mondays in September (8, 15, 22, and 29). Oct. 27 is our Annual Treat Day.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD STORE OWNERS KNOW BEFORE THEY ARRIVE?

Make their visit worth the trip each time. We know a lot of our customers travel a distance to shop with us, which is why we offer a variety of shopping options.

We can hold products for them to pick up, so they do not miss their bestsellers. Shop online, follow our stock updates on Facebook, or schedule a virtual trip!

Lancaster County Showcase

Location 836 Houston Run Drive, Suite 201, Gap, PA 17527

Website lancastercountyshowcase.com

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61567831340717

Email info@lancastercountyshowcase.com

Phone 717-687-8150

Hours Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

First Saturday of month 8 a.m. to noon

WHAT IS YOUR REGISTRATION PROCESS? MAY STORE OWNERS PREREGISTER ON YOUR WEBSITE?

No registration is required. First-time buyers should have a copy of their state-issued Sales Tax ID.

WHAT ARE YOUR PROCESSES FOR UNLOADING AND LOADING?

Our friendly warehouse staff are available to help load your products. We also partner with Keystone Transport, or the

logistics service of your choice, to have the products shipped right to your door.

WHICH COMPANIES DO YOU CARRY?

We have more than 130 manufacturers from Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Virginia, and beyond (lancastercountyshowcase.com/manufacturers/ ). All our products are made in America, and many are Amishhandcrafted. Buyers can shop straight from our showroom (in person or via our private virtual tours), or they can gather catalogs and buy directly from our manufacturers.

PROVIDE DETAILS ABOUT OPEN HOUSES AND SPECIAL EVENTS YOU HAVE PLANNED IN 2025.

Customer Appreciation Day was March 4. It was an exciting one-day show — with many of our manufacturers present — and a super time to discover new outdoor furniture and stock up on lawn décor and crafts. Ice Cream Days are July 21-22. This fun two-day event will feature ice cream and other sweet treats, as well as sweet deals on furniture and some wonderful door prizes! Lancaster Expo is Sept. 9-10. This is our biggest event. Most of our manufacturers will be on-site, as well as many special vendors that show for the Expo. Enjoy discounts, door prizes, and our legendary chicken barbecue and soft pretzels!

WHAT ELSE SHOULD STORE OWNERS KNOW BEFORE THEY ARRIVE?

Store owners can shop from the comfort of their office with our Virtual Tour service. Just call 717-687-8150 to schedule your private virtual tour, where you can simply browse with the help of our friendly staff or buy products directly from our showrooms!

Our showroom consists of two floors of indoor showrooms, as well as an outdoor showroom featuring lawn furniture, backyard structures, and outdoor décor.

We are here to help you succeed in finding the best in American-made furniture, home décor, and outdoor products.

browse the indoor showroom during a Lancaster County Showcase event.

Outdoor décor is on display during a past event at Lancaster County Showcase.

Buyers

Merchandising When It Is Quiet

How To Create a Buzz in Your Store

BY NICOLE LEINBACH HOFFMAN

Strong foot traffic does not always equal strong sales, so what can retailers do to help boost a buzz despite foot traffic being strong or slow?

As the year progresses and you experience busy, busier, and not-so-busy months, leverage the power of merchandising to help you along the way. This is especially important during slower times of the year when foot traffic drops yet your bills stay steady.

To help capture both customer engagement and customer dollars during those times of the year, consider how various merchandising strategies can be applied to your one-of-a-kind business.

Leveraging Basic Merchandising for Heightened Sales

Today’s consumers are savvy and aware that where they shop is not the only place they can shop. Their choice of where to spend is influenced by a lot of details. But make no mistake — tried, true, and basic merchandising strategies still go a long way when it comes to capturing customer dollars.

To increase your store’s visual appeal year-round — particularly during slower months where holidays, special events, or other occasions do not demand special merchandising strategies — leverage simple details of merchandising to bring fresh life to your displays. The considerations to narrow in on include:

• Use practical fixtures to highlight your products. From a basic t-rack to using nesting tables to create a layered, multi-dimensional display combined with inventory, simple fixtures do not have to be stale. Simply incorporate your inventory to bring it to life through frequent changes, interesting combinations, and practical merchandising for easy engagement with your customers.

• Double expose items to increase the chance of their exposure and their purpose. Every consumer experiences your store differently, so repeating items is a wonderful way to ensure consumers see everything.

Specifically, you can bring items to the spotlight in your store while also having them displayed somewhere else. This simple strategy is easy yet impactful when it comes to helping to capture customer attention.

• Change your displays regularly to keep things interesting and fresh. Stores often welcome loyal customers frequently. Therefore, displays need to be updated more than you may currently allocate time for. This may mean a refresh of your most dominant displays every other day for some stores, while at least bi-weekly for others. Many stores find this is only necessary once a week. Consider your traffic flow of repeat customers and encourage your team to prioritize this refreshed approach more routinely. Remember, this refresh does not have to be your entire store but should be your key fixtures.

• Provide adequate lighting in your store and on your displays. It is amazing how the little things can be the big things when it comes to store impact. And the power of lights — or lack of them — is certainly one of these little things. Through strategic lighting, consider how you can spotlight your store’s key displays, items, and focal points. Nowadays, there are even spotlights and wall sconces that are battery operated and can easily be applied to your store walls without having to deal with electrical changes. The good news is this is also a low-cost effort that can have high returns.

• Group like-minded products together. The funny thing about being like-minded is this can mean a lot of things depending on your perspective. You can approach this through color-blocking items together, such as grouping all pink things together to welcome the spring season, or by items, such as everything to do with gardening in one spot. Another approach may be displaying locally made items in one spot, handmade items in another spot, items that are plastic-free or organically produced somewhere else, and so on. You

get the idea. Just do not forget to add strategic signage to help bring a well-deserved shout out to these groupings. Speaking of signage…

• Create signage that does not get lost in your store. Whether it is crisp and bold black letters against white in a black frame or bright pink words to support your signature colors in an acrylic frame, the key is to use signage to boost displays and customer engagement. From offering vendor details, product information, interesting facts, and more, signage is a key part of displays that can help communicate directly to customers. Through signage, you can also share news of special events, upcoming promotions, return policies, dressing room policies, and more. Be sure to always use consistent signage and avoid hand-written signage.

• Incorporate marketing messaging into your displays to help move products. Customers are bombarded with marketing impressions all day long. From social media to word of mouth to media messages via the radio, apps, and more, it is nonstop. But do you know what else it is? Expected. Incorporate marketing messaging into your own displays to get creative and bring meaningful moments to your store. When cuing in on ways to gain consumer attention via marketing messages, look beyond your store to see what is going on in mainstream media. It may be a new movie coming out that relates back to a product at your store. Maybe it is more locally centric and aligns with your high school’s homecoming or a community event taking place. The idea is to make a connection to something your customers will instinctively relate to and then use your merchandising to tell this story.

Challenge Yourself To Do Better

When reflecting on which strategies make sense for your store, challenge yourself to walk through your entire store with virgin eyes. In other words, pretend you are a new customer experiencing your store for the first time. Ask yourself the following questions and challenge yourself to apply some of the actions for a refreshed store analysis.

1. When you look at your exterior window, what is your first thought? Remember, put yourself in your consumer’s shoes and answer from a customer perspective.

2. Does your exterior excite you enough to want to walk into your store as a first-time customer? What about as a repeat customer?

3. Once you enter your store, step only about five inches into your store. Pause. Look around your store. What direction are you most drawn to? What does not feel or look right? What confuses you? What stands out as the good, bad, or even ugly?

4. At the same time, answer honestly to these questions. If you were a customer, would you want to stay and shop? And if so, what direction would you move toward first and why?

5. Walk through your store. Using colored sticky note pads, use one color for what makes you satisfied, another

color for what makes you feel disappointed or simply not satisfied, and a third color for what makes you smile with confidence. Place these throughout your store on this journey.

6. Repeat this step with store associates or even an outside friend or business peer. Ask them to do the same. Once completed, review this exercise from a refreshed perspective and then challenge yourself to apply the above basic merchandising strategies to enhance your store experience and displays.

7. After you do your walk through, how do you feel? Answer this honestly. Are you simply content or are you elated? Do you feel excited or exhausted about your store displays?

8. Does your store feel clean — dust free, tidy shelves, organized? Be honest.

9. What are the top three areas you think could be improved?

10. What is your go-to-action plan for change?

Completing this exercise is a terrific way to position your store and yourself for change. Remember, slow months allow for these refreshes and position you for stronger success when foot traffic is in your store.

In Conclusion

The eyes of your customers are not yours. Always keep them top of mind as you continue to grow and nurture your business. Displays are among the most important and meaningful ways to do this — even if it feels the most basic.

Find Your 3D Leadership Style

Every leader has their own style. One of the keys to being a strong, well-respected leader is to adapt your style to the task as well as an individual’s ability and motivation.

In a recent SmartBrief article, writer Paul Thornton explains that a leader has two primary jobs: help people succeed and reach their desired goals, and help people develop the knowledge and skills needed for continued success.

Thornton looks at the traits of three leadership styles — “3D”: directing, discussing, and delegating — as it relates to a leader’s two main jobs and the pros and cons of each:

• Directing. Traits include providing clear instructions on what needs to be done and how to do it, sometimes through demonstrating the process. Communication is largely one way — you talk, they listen. This style should not be used when employees know what to do. Avoid micromanaging people who are capable, as it limits their willingness to take initiative and make decisions on their own.

• Discussing. You invite collaboration by asking questions to engage employees. Have questions prepared ahead of time to guide discussions and stay on track. Communication is two-way. This style is best when working with experienced, confident employees who feel comfortable sharing their ideas and opinions. Manage discussions to avoid rambling, unproductive meetings.

• Delegating. You empower team members to decide what is best. The leader might describe the goal, but it is up to the employees to determine how to reach the goal. Read the full article at https://www.smartbrief.com/original/becoming-a-3d-leader.

Top Point-of-Sale Systems for 2025

Whether you are new to point-of-sale (POS) systems or just looking for a new POS system, a recent article in Small Business Trends evaluated some of the most popular systems based on factors like ease of use, integration capabilities, customization, and security features.

Square, Brilliant POS, and PayPal Zettle emerged as the top performers. Here is why:

• Square. Square is great for small businesses of all kinds because it is easy to use and is versatile. Initially the POS system of choice for the restaurant and hospitality industries, it has been widely adopted by small businesses. The system has a range of features, from a card reader to back-end capabilities like payroll, inventory management, and sales data.

• Brilliant POS. This POS system works equally well for brick-and-mortar stores, restaurants, and other hospitality establishments. Its features include a POS terminal, receipt printer, and barcode scanners.

• PayPal Zettle. PayPal has expanded into the POS space with Zettle. Its features are robust, including inventory management, payment processing, and sales data.

Visit https://smallbiztrends.com/point-of-salesystems/ to view the full list and learn more about the various POS systems available.

How To Choose the Right AI Tool for Your Business

Professionals in all industries are only starting to tap into the seemingly unlimited potential of artificial intelligence (AI). AI can help small-business owners with a range of tasks, from marketing to project management.

A recent article in Entrepreneur says the trick is to choose the right tool for your needs. You want a tool that is an extension of your team. It should integrate with the technology and infrastructure you already have in place.

Finally, it should be a tool you feel comfortable using and will continue to deliver value. To read the full story, visit entrepreneur.com/ growing-a-business/how-to-choose-the-right-aitools-for-your-small-business/483568.

Tips To Obtain a Successful Work/Life Balance

Finding the sweet spot of successfully balancing work and life responsibilities is a constant juggling act for professionals of all kinds, though perhaps small-business owners above all. In a recent Q&A with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Eric Gagnon, president of We Sell Restaurants, shared his tips for striking a manageable work/life balance amid a packed schedule of responsibilities to work, family, and community:

• Identify priorities and set clear goals. For both personal and professional endeavors, identify what truly matters and dedicate time to them. This helps boost your productivity and reduce stress.

• Practice with purpose. At work and play, set a clear plan for each activity you expect to complete. Approaching all tasks with intention leads to more meaningful progress and success in the long term.

• Structure your time wisely. Time management is a top struggle for many busy professionals. Just like tasks, setting priorities for your time will help you make the most of it. Plan your day with dedicated time for your responsibilities — work, family, community, and hobbies — so you are not neglecting any area of your life. Be disciplined so you feel more in control of your time, more accomplished, and less overwhelmed.

• Seek expert guidance. Reach out to trusted mentors or coaches for valued insights. By getting a different perspective, you may discover new strategies or solutions you had not considered before. Whether you are looking for guidance at work or a new pursuit like a hobby, lean on those who can help you improve your abilities and successfully reach your goals.

• Stay present. Focus on the current task, be it leading a staff meeting or improving your golf swing. By being fully immersed in the present, you increase your participation and enjoyment. Avoid distractions and multitasking and focus on the moment.

• Finish tasks with focus. Give your full attention to the task at hand to boost your productivity and lead to the outcome you intended. Prioritize tasks, eliminate distractions, and work with intention to finish what is most important. Completing that to do list will free up your time for other pursuits while still tending to your professional obligations.

To read more on this topic, visit www.uschamber.com/co/good-company/growth-studio/master-work-life-balance.

Shoplifting on the Rise

A recent study conducted and released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) shows an increase in shoplifting activity in 2023 versus 2019. That is according to an article in Loss Prevention Magazine.

Retailers reported a 93% increase in shoplifting incidents in 2023 and a 90% increase in dollars lost due to shoplifting over the same period. NRF’s study, conducted in partnership with the Loss Prevention Research Council and sponsored by Sensormatic Solutions, examines how theft and violence have evolved since the pre-COVID era in 2019 and how retailers are fighting today’s retail crime landscape.

For instance, 71% of retailers surveyed have increased their budgets for employee training. Shoplifting incidents involving two to three individuals have also been on the rise.

Nearly 94% of survey responders agree federal legislation is necessary to address this issue. Visit losspreventionmedia.com/ new-study-shows-shoplifting-is-up-93-since-before-the-covid19-pandemic/ to read the full article.

“Setting high standards is valuable, but it’s equally important to foster an environment where employees feel safe to innovate.”

GAMZE KOSEOGLU, UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE SENIOR LECTURER, ON THECONVERSATION.COM

Reimagine, Reinvent

Inspiration for Tweaking the Displays in Your Store

We have all said it at one time or another … why reinvent the wheel? Exactly!

While the specific styles and trends of our merchandise offerings differ from season to season, we are not necessarily looking for completely new ways to display them for sale. Tried and true methods and formats have earned their default settings with good reason — they always work. Period. That does not mean, however, that we cannot look for ways to tweak the displays or polish them a bit. It might be the fixture

itself or a window prop. It might be the artwork on the walls or the area behind the cash wrap.

As always, Pinterest remains a very robust resource for ideas. I check it frequently and am always delighted with the creative ideas I discover (hint: you should follow Windows Matter on Pinterest!).

As with so many visual merchandising solutions, these can be achieved with paint, fabric, and/or simple carpentry. Remember the goal is to REIMAGINE , not REINVENT. Let’s take a glance

A gorgeous mid-century modern desk serves as the perfect display fixture for a color-curated diction of vintage glass items. PHOTO COURTESY OF ELIZABETH STALMAN (RESTORATIONRESERVE.COM)

Be it a cozy gift shop or a sleek designer salon, suitcases can serve a multitude of purposes. This upscale designer made sure these props were lacquered with detail and polish — no spray paint or well-intentioned brush work. Go to the body shop, and get it done right!

This is the perfect example of a

if needed — safely and efficiently.

Household Tools

They might be vintage mixing bowls, muffin tins, or towel drying racks. Those mundane, everyday items from generations ago — what use could they have in a retail store? PLENTY! Inverted bowls can serve as risers (or upright for smaller merchandise). I have seen muffin tins used for marbles, scrabble

If your aesthetic leans cottage core, this could be the perfect addition to your inventory. Old doors make perfect tabletops, around the garage … or the resale shop … or the alley (that is where I find so many of my treasures!).

tiles, and dominoes. Trays provide reliable ways to group products by style, label, or price.

Furniture, Household Fixtures

Who knew there would be another use for old, coiled bedsprings? Not in their expected state but as a fixture or backdrop.

retrofitted vintage suitcase for displaying jewelry. As a bonus, it can be packed up to travel

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOMB DE FLEUR

thanks to sawhorses, and I have even seen sinks, stoves, and washtubs pressed into service.

Some of these items will benefit from a fresh coat of paint. Others will be perfect just as they are.

I would, however, conduct a lead test on old, distressed painted pieces. It is a worthwhile step for customer safety, especially for children who visit your store.

Storage, Travel Accessories

Take a cue from the street busker who puts his opened instrument case on the sidewalk for tips. In your store, it might be a violin case that holds flyers, cards, etc. Even if it is a bit of a mess, the container is clever and likely to bring a smile versus a sign of disapproval.

Check out those travel items lurking in your basement — especially hard-bodied suitcases, footlockers, and steamer trunks. Some clever carpentry and/or using them as risers can go a long way to adding color and heft to a merchandising zone.

Using Unexpected Items

I find some of the cleverest adaptations and upcycling continue to appear at Anthropologie stores. It is very much a part of their brand, and despite wildly varied stores coast-to-coast, their visual merchandising strategies are always on point.

There is no mistaking your surroundings and yet, harnessing all that eclecticism is tricky. By all means, go on a visit. If you needed a reason to do so, this is your assignment — look at the many ways unexpected items have been adapted, upcycled, or reused in their floorplan and their window and interior displays.

Have an interesting display to share?

Or a question about visual merchandising strategies for your business or your district? Visit www.windowsmatter.com for more information.ilMindedWorld and Twitter via @RetailMinded .

These sheep at String Theory Yarn Company (stringtheoryyarncompany.com) in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, are bright, whimsical, colorful, and recycled! The sheep’s heads are fashioned from bicycle seats and the horns from squeeze bottle lids. Genius!

AMY MEADOWS PHOTOS

In a visually crowded flea market, this repurposed guitar case was a refreshing change from the usual display methods.

The baking whisk lampshade reminds me that Tag’s Bakery (tagsbakery.com) in Evanston, Illinois, is not just any bakery, and the historical photos confirm its long-standing community member status.

Tadpoles & Tiddlers

Cheryl Lemke’s inspiration to open a children’s boutique stemmed from her own experiences as a grandmother.

“I have 13 grandchildren and was finding it difficult to find heirloom-quality clothing gifts and accessories in my area,” she said. Cheryl is the founder and owner of Tadpoles & Tiddlers.

Her business is in what she describes as a “quaint European-type plaza” in Bath, Ohio — a suburb of Akron. Other shops and offices occupy the plaza as well.

Located in that plaza since its opening on July 7, 2007, the boutique was in a 1,200-square-foot space for its first 13 years. “The early years were exciting,” Cheryl said. “I opened with the intent to succeed, worked a lot of long hours, made a lot of mistakes, and also learned a lot from the mistakes.”

Her challenges since opening the gift shop included many financially lean months, overbuying, not buying enough, and figuring out what to buy, with managing inventory being the

“Work hard, give it all you got, know your numbers, and never forget your customer is the lifeblood of your business.”

Tadpoles & Tiddlers is in a European-style plaza. The children’s boutique opened there in 2007.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TADPOLES & TIDDLERS

A Boutique With Curated Selections and Custom Services

biggest challenge. Cheryl said she overcame those challenges through research, asking questions of those she respected in the industry, taking courses, and never giving up.

“The turning point came at year 10 when I knew more space was needed to grow and toys were to be part of the growth,” she said. In 2021, Tadpoles & Tiddlers practically doubled its space when it moved two doors down to a 2,300-square-foot space.

“I gutted and combined two spaces, did a complete renovation, and added a toy store,” Cheryl said. In addition to opening Bits & Bobs Toy Shoppe, increasing their clothing size range to 8 years old is another way in which Tadpoles & Tiddlers has changed since the day it opened.

When asked how she chose the name for her business, Cheryl explained that she is a knitter and had a British book about knitting for tiddlers. “In England, toddlers are referred to as tiddlers, and a tiddler can also be a small fish, so it just made sense to start

there,” she said. “Since I wanted a whimsical name for the business, I began playing with words and definitions and tadpoles and tiddlers kept rolling off my tongue. A baby frog (tadpoles) and toddlers (tiddlers) was the winner!”

Inside the Boutique

Those who visit Tadpoles & Tiddlers find an array of items in the boutique. “We sell toys from birth to 10-12 years, apparel from preemie to size 8, accessories, gifts, baptism, books, and gifts for parents and grandparents,” Cheryl said.

Those who visit Tadpoles & Tiddlers discover a variety of product categories, including apparel, toys, stuffed animals, accessories, and gifts.

Cheryl said she chose baby and toddler as her product categories, “because babies are born all day, every day, and it’s a very exciting time to celebrate. Toddlers give us all the first milestones — first smile, coo, tooth, walking, talking, etc. — and I love being a small part of their family’s memorable milestones.”

The top sellers are baby apparel and accessories, with toddler apparel (sizes 2 to 4) next in line, she said. Her gift shop’s star products are baby footies, convertible rompers, swaddles, headbands, and hats.

Their customers include a little bit of everyone — parents,

grandparents, expecting parents, and professionals. Customers say it makes them happy to walk into the boutique. Some describe it as whimsical or as “a grandparent’s sinkhole.” Others comment on how good it smells in the store or how they love the music. One customer said, “I needed something to cheer me up, so I came here.”

Tadpoles & Tiddlers also has an online store. “We are BOPIS, curbside, and ship from the store as well,” Cheryl said.

Service Equals Success

She said the special services they provide include their full-service Babylove Registry, complimentary custom gift boxes and gift wrapping with gift note cards, and a treasure chest for children to pick a gift from when they are shopping with adults.

“We will order custom items whenever we can and have many free giveaways with any purchase throughout the year just to say thank you for supporting us,” Cheryl said.

What sets the boutique apart from others? She said it is “our curated selections, and hands down, our complimentary signature gift boxes and wrap are absolutely loved by everyone. It’s become part of the brand. Customers come in literally on their way to an event and know they’re leaving with a gift beautifully wrapped and ready to go!”

Cheryl said the customer service they provide makes Tadpoles & Tiddlers both successful and different from other businesses in their area. “My team does their very best to make sure the customer leaves with a feeling that they have been well taken care of,” she said.

Customers often visit Tadpoles & Tiddlers on the way to an event and find the perfect gift.

Marketing, Connecting

She said their best marketing tools are their giveaways. When a customer does not expect to receive something like an ornament, calendar, lip balm, or rattle at the time of checkout “just because,” they express gratitude — and do not forget it. “That goes a long way in customer appreciation,” Cheryl said.

They also use gift certificates in $10, $15, and $20 increments as a successful marketing tool. Cheryl said social media and email marketing have proven to be successful in bringing customers to her children’s boutique.

Being part of a community is important. Each November, a fundraiser is held for a local charity. They also have a few childfriendly events throughout the year.

She said they stay connected with the community through email, social media, and events. “Most important, we are here to serve our customers with the best products, service, and care we can provide, to help make their shopping experience memorable and seamless,” Cheryl said. Her advice to those new to retail is to “work hard, give it all you got, know your numbers, and never forget your customer is the lifeblood of your business.”

The ever-changing landscape and creativity of retail are what Cheryl likes best about what she does. “When a customer leaves with a smile — holding our beautiful bags — saying they’ll be back, my heart sings,” she said. “It’s the best compliment a shopgirl could get!”

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Business Name: Tadpoles & Tiddlers

Location: 843 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Akron, OH 44333

Website: www.tadpolesandtiddlers.com

Email: info@tadpolesandtiddlers.com

Phone: 877-592-4453

Employees: Three to six

Size: 2,300 sq. ft.

Trade Shows Attended: Atlanta Market, New York, Regional show in Columbus

Product Categories: Baby, toddler, youth, toys, gifts, accessories

Social Media: Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram

POS System: Shopify

TRADE SHOW CALENDAR

Smart Retailer assumes no liability for changes in show schedules or show cancellations. Please contact the show promoter directly to confirm dates, times, and locations before making travel plans.

MARCH 2025

PORTLAND, ME

New England Made Show ............................................................................... 15-17 nemadeshows.com

NEW YORK, NY

New York Spring Home Fashion Market Week

homefashionproducts.com

LOS ANGELES, CA

LA Mart Spring Market

lamart.com

BILLINGS, MT

Billings Market Association Market .............................................................18-20 billingsmarketassoc.com

WILMINGTON, OH

Heritage Markets Cash & Carry Wholesale Show 25 heritagemarkets.com

DALLAS, TX

Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market + Total Home & Gift Market 25-28 dallasmarketcenter.com

DALLAS, TX

Dallas KidsWorld ................................................................................................. 25-28 dallasmarketcenter.com

ORLANDO, FL

Global Pet Expo

globalpetexpo.com

ATLANTA, GA

APRIL 2025

Formal Markets Atlanta .........................................................................................

americasmart.com

NOBLESVILLE, IN

The Indy Show

silverliningshows.com

April Atlanta Apparel

americasmart.com

LIVONIA-DETROIT, MI

Michigan Women’s Wear Market......................................................................

silverliningshows.com

GAYLORD,

gaylordgiftshow.com

GAYLORD, MI

Northern Michigan Gift & Souvenir Show

nmgiftshow.com

MILLERSBURG, OH

Early American Marketplace...................................................................................

earlyamericanmarketplace.com

MINNETONKA, MN

MinneapolisMART Gift, Home & Accessory Show

mplsmart.com

PHILADELPHIA, PA

Mid-Atlantic Mart April Showcase

midatlanticmart.com

shoppeobject.com

HIGH POINT, NC High Point Spring Market

highpointmarket.org

LEXINGTON, KY

Kentucky Bluegrass Buyer’s Market

silverliningshows.com

LAS VEGAS, NV

*Noted: The Greeting Card Expo ..................................................................27-30 greetingcard.org/noted

LAS VEGAS, NV

Las Vegas Summer Market ..............................................................................

lasvegasmarket.com

BILOXI, MS

AUGUST 2025

Biloxi Mississippi Gift Show.................................................................................

wmigiftshows.com

NEW

nynow.com

asdonline.com

Formal Markets Atlanta

americasmart.com

WILMINGTON, OH Heritage Markets Cash & Carry Wholesale Show

heritagemarkets.com

ATLANTA, GA

August Atlanta Apparel ........................................................................................

americasmart.com

MISSISSAUGA, CAN

SHOW T.O. Home Décor & Giftware ...............................................................7-14 torontomarketweek.ca

MINNETONKA, MN

MinneapolisMART Gift, Home & Accessory Show

mplsmart.com

DES PLAINES, IL

MIX Apparel & Accessories & Gift & Lifestyle

silverliningshows.com

MISSISSAUGA, CAN Toronto Market Week

torontomarketweek.ca

MILWAUKEE, WI

The Garden Center Show.................................................................................

gardencentershow.com

DALLAS, TX

Dallas Apparel & Accessories

dallasmarketcenter.com

DALLAS, TX

Dallas KidsWorld

dallasmarketcenter.com

LAS VEGAS, NV

SuperZoo

superzoo.org

DALLAS, TX

WESA Trade Show ...............................................................................................

wesatradeshow.com

GREENSBORO, NC

Greensboro Gift & Jewelry Spring Market ................................................

gtshows.com

LAS VEGAS, NV

Formal Markets Las Vegas

lasvegasmarket.com

GATLINBURG, TN The Norton Fall Show

SEPTEMBER 2025

BOXBOROUGH,

nemadeshows.com

PHILADELPHIA,

nortonshows.com

NOVEMBER 2025

Kitchen Towel