Smart Retailer March/April 2021

MARCH/APRIL 2021 • $6.95

HELPING YOUR GIFT BUSINESS SUCCEED

SHINING A LIGHT ON

Candles & Scents

A SALUTE TO

PATRIOTIC & MADE-IN-USA 1 Smart Retailer FEBRUARY 2021

CONTENTS MARCH/APRIL 2021

28

28 A Salute to Patriotic & Made-in-USA Products

Products made in America are trending for many reasons. For instance, they provide jobs and keep profits in America, boosting the economy when U.S. consumers and retailers are facing the greatest economic challenge since the Great Depression.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY:

10 Home Fashions and Practical Gifts

Check out these colorful, trendy products for gift giving or brightening the home.

TREND WATCH:

16 Shining a Light on Candles & Scents

Sales of candles and scents have skyrocketed during the pandemic, which many attribute to their stress-relieving qualities.

The glowing, flickering flames and luscious aromas can calm frayed nerves after a long day.

ON THE COVER: Shining Sol’s

wood wicked, 100% soy candles offer a scent and style for everyone, and include wax melts, various jar sizes, and more. Featured are top sellers Sunkissed, Mermaid Cove, and Shenandoah.

76 Sure-Fire Strategies: What the Pros Know

Create professional looking displays with these time-tested tips.

RETAILER SPOTLIGHT:

78 Seven Maples Gift & Garden

Kids products are virtually recessionproof, and don’t forget that shoppers may come for toys and clothes, but they’ll likely discover other irresistible things on your shelves too.

Seven Maples Gift & Garden in Monroe, Connecticut, features quaint New England charm with an array of accessories, seasonal wreaths, candles, collectibles, custom handbags, and home and garden décor. Owners Brad and Lisa Orr have spent decades building up their business to become a celebrated shopping destination for their community.

BUSINESS SENSE

IN EVERY ISSUE

36 Children & Babies Merchandise: Soooo Big!

PRODUCT FOCUS

DISPLAY & DESIGN:

44 News Roundup from Smart-Retailer.com

Find news stories and article summaries here with full stories available on smart-retailer.com.

66 Cash & Carry Wholesale Warehouses: A Convenient, Budget-Friendly Way to Stock Your Store

6 Editor’s Note 8 Welcome Exchange:

Questions & Answers that Matter

80 Trade Show Calendar 82 Advertiser Index

Storeowners typically order products through an online or print catalog or by attending a tradeshow.

But wholesale warehouses are becoming an increasingly popular way to purchase merchandise.

Find out why they’re such a hit.

74 Business Briefs:

One road to recovery: make shopping fun; wowing shoppers in Walla Walla; resources from the U.S. Chamber; stories that sell; small but mighty: an Amazon alternative.

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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.

4 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Quality. Hand-crafted.

American Made.

Virtual shopping now available! Call us today for more information.

Primitive Jar Candles by Warm Glow

180 Greenfield Road, Lancaster, PA 17601 • Ph: 717-295-2570 • Fx: 717-295-2576 info@lancasterwholesalemall.com • www.LancasterWholesaleMall.com

EDITOR’SNOTE

Minimum Wage Hike Could Put Maximum Pressure on Small Business On Jan. 26, Congress introduced the Raise the Wage Act of 2021 (H.R. 603 and S. 53), which would increase the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour within four years and increase it every year after that. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), an advocate for small business, responded on Feb. 1 with a letter to the House and Senate opposing the act.

In the letter, NFIB detailed the damage it would cause. The $15 per hour minimum wage was also introduced into the $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief bill, but on March 5, the Senate voted to exclude it from that bill. The increase could still be passed under the Raise the Wage Act, however.

The wage hike would put an especially heavy burden on small businesses, which would have fewer resources than large corporations to bear the extra costs, putting them at a huge disadvantage. In addition, setting a one-size-fits-all minimum wage ignores the wide variation of economic conditions and cost of living across America.

The raise would likely force some small storeowners to pay their employees more than they make themselves. No doubt some make less than $15 an hour after factoring in their overhead, profit margin, and enormous number of working hours, especially during the pandemic. Storeowners will be forced to lay off employees or drastically cut their hours and work even more hours to pick up the workload.

The article “Six Reasons to Oppose a $15 Federal Minimum Wage” (bit.ly/6ReasonstoOppose) posted on thehill.com, explains why the act will do more harm than good. “The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) found it is likely to cost 1.7 million jobs with no corresponding increase in overall wages.” The increase in wages for some will be offset by layoffs for others. The article also pointed out that big businesses actually like the higher minimum wage. “That may seem odd at first,” the article stated, “but it makes sense when you consider their competitive environment.” They’re well aware of the big advantage it will give them over small business.

The NFIB encourages small business owners to ask their representatives in Congress to oppose the act. It may be a matter of survival.

TOP-SHELF MERCHANDISE We’ve got great products for you in favorite categories: Candles & Scents (pg. 16), Patriotic & Made in USA (pg. 28), and Children & Babies (pg. 36). These time-tested products are sure to be a hit.

We’re headed into spring and warmer weather. With COVID infection numbers dropping and restrictions beginning to loosen, you may have more opportunities for in-store shoppers than you’ve had in quite a while. It’s also a time to reestablish the face-to-face relationships with customers. Enjoy the long overdue reunion!

TO YOUR SUCCESS! DAN BROWNELL, EDITOR

CONNECT WITH SMART RETAILER ONLINE: Website: www.smart-retailer.com Twitter: www.twitter.com/smart_retailer YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/SmartRetailer Facebook: www.facebook.com/SmartRetailerMagazine Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/smartretailer 6 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

VOLUME 29, NUMBER 2

DIANA JONES President/Publisher, ext. 151 dianaj@jpmediallc.com

DAN BROWNELL Editor, ext. 154 danb@smart-retailer.com

JOYCE GREENHOLDT Product Editor joyceg@jpmediallc.com

ANDREA GARBE Sales Account Executive, ext. 114 andreag@jpmediallc.com

JIM NEGEN Sales Account Executive, ext. 118 jimn@jpmediallc.com

ELIZABETH KROGWOLD Art Director

ROCKY LANDSVERK Editorial Director

CONTRIBUTORS: Sarah Hoban Amy Meadows Nicole Leinbach Reyhle

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 www.smart-retailer.com www.facebook.com/SmartRetailerMagazine www.twitter.com/smart_retailer Copyright © 2021

Camden Collection

Linens • Home Decor • Florals • Holiday 800.492.1784 • www.thecountryhousecollection.com

WELCOMEEXCHANGE

BY NICOLE LEINBACH REYHLE

Taking the time to realign your employee’s perspective, understanding, and overall appreciation of your unique business is a great way to help strengthen store performance. After all, at the core of every business are the people who represent it. I applaud you for identifying this as something you’d like to nurture in the year ahead.

To boost your team morale and productivity alike, transparency and education is a must. Among the considerations to help do this include the following: • Provide a training session to all employees during closed store hours that offers clarity to updated instore procedures, including returns, fitting room policies, and COVID-altered store hours, as well as other influences that may have affected your store operations.

• Inform and educate employees of newly introduced services such as curbside pickup, local delivery options, enhanced BOPIS strategies, and how to communicate effectively to customers through these services. Provide clear and concise insight on each step so customers have consistent experiences, while employees build confidence in their delivery.

• Educate employees on new safety standards necessary for both customers and employees, as well as introduce any updates to paid time-off, sick leave, and other scheduling situations. If masks are mandated in your community and store, be clear about your store expectations.

• C onclude your training experiences with a fun, nonwork-related activity such as a pizza lunch, socially distanced bowling, or other activity. The key is to offer a social experience outside of work to help your team get to know each other better and appreciate your efforts as a leader. Virtual social experiences are also an option, thanks to Zoom and other digital platforms.

Finally, remember that while inventory, customers, operations, and marketing contribute to brand success, the reality is that it takes leadership and a collective team of employees to truly bring a brand to life. So be sure to consistently offer updated trainings and social experiences to help keep your team positive and efficient in supporting your one-of-a-kind retail store.

8 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

PHOTO BY GABRIELLA CLARE MARINO ON UNSPLASH

I can’t help but feel a disconnect between my staff and me. Because of my store’s changes due to COVID-19, our nation’s various changes and disputes over the last year, and the social distance we’ve all experienced, I feel like I need to boost my team’s morale to help strengthen my business. Any advice?

I’m about to invest in some new merchandising displays. Any thoughts on this?

Merchandising is a constant responsibility that takes time, strategy, and consistent care. As you invest in new ways to merchandise, consider how modular displays can help you.

Particularly when more companies are looking to take their inventory outside due to COVID-19 (weather permitting and permits provided), modular merchandising allows for quick display changes, easy-to-move store updates, and socially distanced traffic flow. Many different displays will ultimately support your store inventory, but making sure they’re easy to move and not permanently positioned is a smart consideration for your investment.

Nicole Leinbach Reyhle 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, Reyhle welcomes you to connect via Instagram at @RetailMindedWorld and Twitter via @RetailMinded.

NEW&NOTEWORTHY Baby Milestones Chalkboard This adorable chalkboard allows you to capture all of your baby’s milestones, from number of teeth to favorite foods. The boards feature an assortment of color schemes and have two sawtooth hangers for wall display. 13" h. x 11.5" w. x .5" d.

Small Town Girl Baseball Cap This black cotton cap reads, “Small Town Girl” in white lettering and has an adjustable strap with a secure metal clasp to ensure the perfect fit.

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

Adjustable Rings

Vineyard Sound Buoy Bell

Pieces of Me piecesofmeco.com kassidy@piecesofmeco.com 616-856-3929

North Country Wind Bells, Inc. www.NorthCountryWindBells.com ncbells@tidewater.net 207-677-2224

These new fully adjustable rings can fit all sizes and feature one of 12 unique meaningful designs. Plated in 14k gold or sterling silver with an anti-tarnish coating. Ideal for stacking.

Three beautiful melodies replicating the sound of buoy bells found on ocean bays and channels. Made with recycled steel and powdercoated to endure for years to come.

Made in Maine.

NIQUEA.D Greeting Cards

NIQUEA.D is a new brand of greeting card and celebration products launched by Dominique Schurman in partnership with DG Americas.

Designed for those who live in daydreams, embrace beauty, seek adventure, and celebrate life’s journey.

DG Americas, NIQUEA.D NIQUEAD.com orders@NIQUEAD.com 615-785-2222

Anti-Fog Cleanser Spray

Wearing a face mask can cause glasses to fog up. This anti-fog cleanser spray keeps glasses or face shields clear all day long.

Spray it on, wait two minutes, and gently wipe with a soft cloth. The 2 oz. bottle contains over 400 uses.

Safe for all lenses. Anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic.

Merlot Corporation wayne@merlotskincare.com www.merlotskincare.com 915-474-9855 10 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Mr. or Mrs. Gnome Flower Hat Garden Gnome

These gnome dolls have a sand-weighted base, vibrant spring clothing, a round nose, and long fuzzy beard or pigtails. Gnomes have wired fabric hats and sell as an assortment.

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

1 0 0 % A L L N AT U R A L S OY HANDCRAFTED IN VIRGINIA

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C R AC K L I N G WO O D W I C KS

E CO - F R I E N D LY

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F U L L S C E N T LOA D

THE BEST SELlING SHINING SOL ARTISAN COLlECTION

BOMB POP 3 scents: black cherry (red), coconut lime (white) & blue raspberry (blue).

DRAGON’S LAIR Sweet sugar, exotic citrus, grapefruit.

An intelligent & sophisticated scent.

MERMAID COVE Amazing sea salt & orchid. Jars have themed wax decorations on top.

TURTLE BAY

MERMAID COVE

UNICORN TALE

THEM BONES An icy chill mixed with candied apple.

Features a wax skull/grave on top.

STORMY SEAS Oceanic freshness w/ linen, amber & sea salt. Features white caps on top.

SUN, SAND & SEA Amazing sea salt & orchid.

Features wax seashells on top.

JOURNEY AND THE BEACH

THEM BONES

TURTLE BAY A wax turtle rests atop this candle.

A mix of coconut, lime & verbena.

UNICORN TALE Sweet and sugary cotton candy w/ colored glitter on top.

WAVES CRASHING A crisp and clean oceanic scent that calms and soothes (real shells on top!).

WAVES CRASHING

Top down view of select LARGE Artisan candles. Medium jars contain less on top.

Tins and melts do not generally contain top decorations.

JOURNEY AND THE BEACH Oceanic notes with a delicate blend of pina colada and amber.

FREE catalog available! (digital or print)

#1 Seller for 2020!

C A N D L E S C E N T S A N D S T Y L E S TO S U I T A N Y S TO R E T Y P E .

SHININGSOL.COM/WHOLESALE

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SALES @ SHININGSOL.COM

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571-208-1189

NEW&NOTEWORTHY Chatham Collection

New for summer 2021, these facemasks offer bright and neutral colors with original modern prints.

The reversible masks for children and adults have adjustable ear bands and a double layer of cotton and canvas. Crafted in Connecticut, the face masks feature art and design exclusively created

by Robin Zingone. Coordinating lanyards complete the collection.

robinzingone robinzingone.com info@robinzingone.com 860-304-5404

Townsend Collection

The gray, black, and white plaid of this new collection will be great for many styles of décor, including farmhouse styles.

Country House Collection www.thecountryhousecollection.com wholesale@thecountryhouse.com |800-492-1784

Painted Jewels Collection The new Painted Jewels collection is available in gift bags, basket boxes, gift wrap, and more. The bright hues pair easily with a variety of solid color tissues, bold shreds, and colorful ribbon.

Commuter Tote

This commuter bag doubles as both a tote and crossbody bag. Features a padded tablet compartment, exterior pocket, expandable side pocket, three interior pockets (one zippered), a pen slot, strap, and hook for keys or a pouch. Made with sturdy recycled canvas with waterproof lining and vegan leather trim and eco-friendly pigment inks.

MAIKA www.maikagoods.com lisa@maikagoods.com 415-445-4562

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

U.S. Apothecary Dandelion & Lavender

Dandelion root and lavender blend with lemon flower, white tea, rose hips, and sage to create a clean yet relaxing fragrance in a range of vegetable-based products.

Focus Essential Oil Roll-Ons

Both new and classic hydraAromatherapy essential oil blends are now available in convenient roll-on bottles.

K. Hall Studio, LLC www.khallstudio.com sales@khallstudio.com 855-819-3397

Focus Shower Burst Duo

Shower Bursts turn your shower into a luxurious at-home spa experience. When activated by the water and humidity in your shower, Shower Bursts release 100% pure essential oils for a true aromatherapy experience.

hydraAromatherapy www.hydraaromatherapy.com sales@hydrabrands.com 859-785-8500

Jane Austen “If I Loved You Less” Candle

Soy and coco wax candle in a ceramic vessel. Citrus and blossom scent. Burn time is 50 hours.

Insight Editions insighteditions.com/pages/ wholesale sales@insighteditions.com 415-526-1370

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NEW&NOTEWORTHY

LANG Dot Journal

This 240-page journal features premium stock pages with dot format, split spiral bindings, linen-embossed hardcovers with foil embellishments, and color-coordinating elastic pen holder. 6.25" w. x 8.25" h. x 1" d.

Lang Companies, Inc. internationalsales@thelangcos.com kelli.melzer@dgamericas.com 800-262-2611

City Skyline Face Coverings

Face masks with day or night views of city skylines, including Chicago, New York, Washington DC, and London. Embroidered on linen/cotton; washable and reusable.

Beyond Cushions Corporation www.beyondcushions.com minna@beyondcushions.com 404-483-1733

Sheepskin Ottomans

New Australian shearling sheepskin ottomans will be available for sale in Spring 2021.

Fibre by Auskin USA www.fibreusab2b.com salesusa@auskin.com 888-528-7546

Sculptured Abstract Terracotta Vase

Today’s Nordic style is where familiar Nordic meets the more artistic world. A unique, functional piece of sculpture for the individual modern home.

Bloomingville US www.bloomingville.us customerservice@bloomingville.us | 866-323-2264

Sunflower Field Puzzle

These 1,000-piece puzzles feature reproductions of original art. Puzzles come in a resealable plastic bag, packaged in a cylinder box displaying the full design on the outside. Each puzzle includes a 10" x 8" printout of the full image for reference.

Primitives By Kathy www.primitivesbykathy.com kstrom@primitivesbykathy.com 866-295-2849 14 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Anti-Theft Rucksacks

These anti-theft rucksacks have two front pockets, one with snap closure and one with zipper closure. Can easily hold a smartphone, sunglasses, keys, and more.

An anti-theft hook secures the zipper. An external USB charger port allows the user to connect a power bank inside the bag to a phone. Several designs available.

Calla Products callaproducts.net sales@nufoot.com | 925-743-9831

colhousedesigns.com | 800.777.1442 4600 Hamilton Rd. Groveport OH 43125

Join Us or Set Up a Virtual Appointment!

CWI Gifts Open House- Groveport, OH, March 8-10, 2021 AmericasMart- Atlanta, GA, July 12-17, 2021 Virtual appt. custserv@colhousedesigns.com *Free shipping applies to total after discounts and coupons taken.Cannot be combined with other offers; in-stock items only.Valid only within the US. Offer expires April 30, 2021.

Save with Col House Designs!

Free SHIPPING

on orders over $400 with code: CHSR400*

TRENDWATCH

Shining a Light on Candles & Scents 1. 2. Essential Oil Wall-Plug Diffusers

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These wall-plug diffusers deliver aromatherapy without the need to add water. Two modes allow you to customize your fragrance experience.

Rotating metal prongs guarantee you can use your unit in every outlet in every room. A nightlight with three brightness levels ensures this diffuser is as functional as it is beautiful.

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Serene House USA Inc www.serenehouse.com sales@serenehouseusa.com 856-673-4117

3. Hand-Poured Soy Candles

8 oz. hand-poured soy candles in a range of unique fragrances. Gift sets are also available.

Grecian Soap Company www.greciansoap.com steve@greciansoap.com 951-339-8661

4. U.S. Apothecary Chamomile & Honey

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Calming chamomile and sweet honey are perfectly blended to create this soothing fragrance. These candles are hand-poured using a soy and vegetable wax blend in small batches in St. Louis.

Wicks are 100% cotton, providing a clean burn for each candle.

K. Hall Studio, LLC www.khallstudio.com sales@khallstudio.com 855-819-3397

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5. “Gratitude” Ceramic Candle

This soy and coco wax candle is scented with grapefruit and rose. The ceramic container bears the message “Filled With Gratitude” on the reverse side of the candle. 45-hour burn time.

Insight Editions insighteditions.com/pages/wholesale sales@insighteditions.com 415-526-1370

6. Milk Bottle Candles

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16 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Soy candles made in a repurposed dairy barn in the U.S.

Milk Reclamation Barn www.milkbarncandles.com jack@milkbarncandles.com 508-505-0298

TRENDWATCH 7. Custom-Label Candles

Seaglow Candles can create exclusive, custom designs housed in recycled glass jars with renewable cork lids, for eco-friendly, sustainable gifts. Made with premium, clean-burning soy wax and phthalate-free fragrances.

Vegan and cruelty-free.

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Seaglow Candles seaglowcandles.com sue@seaglowcandles.com 408-796-7406

8. “Mother” Jar Candle

Soy wax candles in glass vessels featuring captivating scents and sentiments that are geared toward gifting.

Primitives By Kathy www.primitivesbykathy.com kstrom@primitivesbykathy.com 866-295-2849

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9. Burnt Mustard Timer Taper Candles

This popular 6" taper candle now comes in a fourpack! These Burnt Mustard tapers have a dark brown grungy wax coating for a rustic texture and flameshaped tips that cast a warm yellow glow. The built-in timer stays on for six hours and then off for 18 hours each day. For indoor use; tapers require two AA batteries to operate. Available in four colors: Burnt Mustard, Burnt Ivory, Burnt Burgundy, and Ivory.

The Hearthside Collection www.thehearthsidecollection.com contact@thehearthsidecollection.com 877-918-1433

10. Portus Cale Noble Red Body Care

A complete range of body products: body lotion, hand & body wash, hand cream, and soap in a collection scented with notes of peony, cedar, and rose.

Casafina Living portuscaleusa.com/en office@casafinagifts.com 845-277-5700

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11. White Boho Candle

Beautiful White Boho-inspired container candle.

Candles are hand-poured 100% soy wax, cotton wicks, and fragrance. Burn time 40 hours.

Sweet Wick Candle Company sweetwick.com jaime@sweetwick.com 770-687-1519

12. Vance Kitira Pear Candles

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Odorless and smokeless, these pear-shaped candles burn with a beautiful glow and boast a phenomenal burn time of 40 hours. Available in 25 different colors.

3" x 4".

Sullivan Gift www.sullivangift.com kay.krause@sullivangift.com 800-456-4568

18 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

CANDLE COMPANY Nnei w3-Wick Mi Cand le

Handmade in the USA

Visit ausMs art!

at Americ NEW showroom Building 2, Floor 7 Showroom 756B

888-253-7934  warmglow.com

TRENDWATCH 13. Scented Candles

Fill your home with fragrance with these cleanburning candles, 100% made in the U.S. Scents include Lilac, a floral blend of garden lilac, jasmine, and fir; Earthly Essence, a mix of vanilla and jasmine with a hint of strawberry; and Lemon Cookie, a vibrant blend of lemon zest, vanilla, and sugar.

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Crossroads Original Designs www.crossroadscandles.com sales@crossroadscandles.com 866-247-0156

14. Fresh Cut Flowers Mason Jar Candle

Each candle is hand-poured in small batches into a pint-sized Mason jar in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Uses vegan dye-free soy wax that burns at a cooler temperature and slower, allowing an extended clean burn, releasing the captivating scent for up to 84 hours. 12 oz.

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JanMichaels Art And Home www.janmichaelsartandhome.com info@janmichaelsartandhome.com 717-342-2499

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15. Fjord & Form Seafare Glass

Timeless, scented white glass candles boxed in nautical-inspired packing made for the cabin or summerhouse. Scents include Salt Cavern, Baltic Beach, and Norse Isle.

Illume wholesale.illumecandles.com illumecustomerservice@creativecoop.com 866-323-2264

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16. Mercury Glass Lidded Ornament Candles

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Embrace the Christmas spirit with this unique mercury glass ornament candle program.

Receive 36 one-wick candles in two scents: Winter Wood and White Cranberry; and three colors: red, gold, and silver. Program includes a free three-tiered wooden display stand.

K&K Interiors kkinteriors.com customer.service@kkinteriors.com 419-627-0039

17. Pinecone Candles

Scented pinecone candles in two sizes: 5.25" dia. x 9.5" h. and 4" dia. x 8" h.

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Creative Co-op www.creativecoop.com customerservice@creativecoop.com 866-323-2264

18. Scented Soy Candles

Create fragrant memories with simple designs that blend with any décor, these hand-poured, clean-burning, long-lasting candles are made of 100% natural soy wax with zero added dyes or toxins.

Kalamazoo Candle Company kalamazoocandle.com orders@kalamazoocandle.com 20 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

TRENDWATCH

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19. Mouth-Blown Candle Holder A classy handmade mouth-blown glass candle holder.

Egyptian Museum www.egyptianmuseum44.com egyptianmuseum44@msn.com 732-564-0830

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20. Lemongrass Sage Candle

The perfect spring and summer scent to freshen your space. 16 oz.

EcoCandleCo.com info@ecocandleco.com 920-830-0123

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21. Lavender Breeze Scented Soy Candle

This richly scented soy candle is individually hand-poured following traditions of 19th-century candlemakers. Approximately 6.25 oz., average burn time of 30 hours.

Willow & Birch Apothecary shopwillowandbirch.com wholesale@shopwillowandbirch.com 607-538-3014 22 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Smart Retailer Birch March 2021.pdf 1 2/12/2021 5:34:49 PM

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TRENDWATCH

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22. Tinc Nifty Snifty Scented Highlighters A set of 10 double-tipped highlighters including two each of five colors featuring lemon, orange, strawberry, apple, and blueberry scents.

Lang Companies, Inc. internationalsales@thelangcos.com kelli.melzer@dgamericas.com 800-262-2611

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23. Sugar Frosted Candles

Sparkling frosted coating over decoupaged images gives these candle vessels a shimmering sugar-frosted look. Scents include orange blossom and French lilac. Hand-poured in the U.S. 6 oz. soy candles.

GardenArt Candle Company www.gardenartcandle.com | sales@gardenartcandle.com 605-347-0003

24. Metallic Warmer

Sleek, metallic candle warmers are perfect for the current décor and scenting needs for the home. Easily tucked in a corner, they subtly light and enhance any room in the house. 3.5" d. x 5.75" h.

25 25. Elanze Wax Drops

A luscious line of premiumquality wax drops to scent the home using Dicksons’ candle warmers. Made in the USA. Six per package.

26. Gardenia Home Fragrance Reed Diffusers

The scent of gardenia and plum blossom comes in a stylish and elegant glass decanter in a smaller size but with a wonderful “throw” of fragrance. Includes eight reeds and glass decanter.

Michel Design Works wholesale.micheldesignworks.com customerservice@ micheldesignworks.com 800-708-6950 24 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

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Dicksons, Inc. www.dicksonsgifts.com eanderson@dicksonsgifts.com 800-457-9885

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I’m totally cute and the perfect house warming gift

Happy

Birthday!

AWE,

THAT’S SWEET, THANK YOU

SEAGLOW CANDLES / Eco-friendly sustainable gifts / seaglowcandles.com

www.smart-retailer.com 25

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Home Decor, Florals, Holiday, Candles + Inspired, Innovative, Imaginative.

Wing Tai Trading Co., Inc. Norfolk, Virginia wing-tai.com info@wing-tai.com 757-855-0800

Handcrafted home goods inspired by nature Wicks + Scents

Orangeburg, South Carolina wicksandscents.com wholesale@wicksandscents.com 803-997-0728

100% soy candles with wood wicks. Scents and styles to suit any store type.

Shining Sol Candle Company Manassas, Virginia shiningsol.com/wholesale sales@shiningsol.com 571-208-1189

26 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Small batch soy candles with wood and cotton wicks.

Five different jar styles.

Birch Candle Company Dayton, Indiana birchcandle.com

Aurora candles are offered in eight unique fragrances and two sizes.

Warm Glow Candle Company Centerville, Indiana warmglow.com marketing@warmglow.com 765-855-5483

“Naturally Luxurious” natural products from locally sourced ingredients.

The Grecian Soap Company Murrieta, California greciansoap.com steve@greciansoap.com 951-339-8661

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Drizzle Melts™ are made in the USA with intensely fragrant 100% natural wax.

Swan Creek Candle Co.® Swanton, Ohio swancreekwholesale.com info@swancreekcandle.com 800-626-4590

Barn Cat Mercantile, LLC East Liverpool, Ohio barncatmercantile.com 330-385-2411

LastingLite Electric Candles, creating ambiance in your home since 1999.

CR Designs Berne, Indiana cr-designs.com info@cr-designs.com 877-203-7953

Our Timeless Jars feature six new fragrances and spring pastel colors.

Swan Creek Candle Co.® Swanton, Ohio swancreekwholesale.com info@swancreekcandle.com 800-626-4590

Eco-friendly, sustainable gifts!

We can create custom designs just for you.

Seaglow Candles seaglowcandles.com answers@seaglowcandles.com

Handcrafted goods made in the USA. K. Hall Studio, LLC St. Louis, Missouri khallstudio.com sales@khallstudio.com 855-819-3397

Essential Oil Wall-Plug Diffuser. Convenient aromatherapy without water.

Serene House Cherry Hill, New Jersey www.serenehouseusa.com sales@serenehouseusa.com

www.smart-retailer.com 27

A Salute to Patriotic & Made-in-USA Products Sailors Lighthouse Bell

Hear the nautical sounds resembling buoy bells on the ocean channels and halyards gently slapping the masts of sailing ships as this bell softly plays. Made with recycled steel and powder-coated in black or white.

Crafted in Maine.

North Country Wind Bells, Inc. www.NorthCountryWindBells.com ncbells@tidewater.net 207-677-2224

Metal American Flag Sculpture

Handcrafted from lightweight steel with Prairie Dance’s unique, copper patina finish. It’s available on a tabletop stand or a garden stake, making it a beautiful indoor or outdoor accent piece.

Prairie Dance Inc. prairiedancewholesale.com studio@prairiedance.com 605-496-7160

Distressed American Flag

This distressed American flag is a handmade metal cutout with vivid red and blue colors and metallic silver.

28.5" x 1" x 20".

Rustic Arrow www.rusticarrow.com sales@rusticarrow.com 956-729-7741

Americana Wood Birdhouse

This handcrafted birdhouse lights up any space with vivid patriotic colors. The rusticstyle wooden birdhouse suits a garden setting or as an indoor decoration.

11.5" x 5.5" x 20.5".

Rustic Arrow www.rusticarrow.com sales@rusticarrow.com 956-729-7741

Large Framed Signs

These framed signs are handmade in the U.S. and come in three different sizes. Poster-sized 2' x 3' signs come with a variety of sayings in both horizontal and vertical options.

Sawdust City LLC www.sawdustcitywholesale.com sales@sawdustcitywholesale.com 800-528-6008

Humble Bumble Bath Products

Made with allnatural ingredients, Humble Bumble offers goat’s milk and honey hand and body lotion, milk and honey bath soak, and goat’s milk and honey hand soap. Made in the U.S.

MooMoo Framed Print

This print features a muted color palette and the portrait of a friendly cow. Comes in a light wood frame with a predrilled keyhole hanger on the back. 17.25" w. x 13.5" h.

(10.5" h. x 14.5" w. without frame). Made in the U.S.

28 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

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

The world doesn’t make things the way they used to.

but we do.

WALL DECOR TOWELS MUGS PAPER GOODS APPAREL

S E C O N D N AT U R E B Y H A N D . C O M (608) 637-8860

Jalapeño Jack Cheeseball & Appetizer Mix This cheeseball mix has just the right amount of spice to keep you going back for more!

Wind & Willow windandwillow.com customerservice@windandwillow.com 888-427-3235

Stars & Stripes Wall Calendar

This 12-month 2022 wall calendar features full-color images by nationally recognized artists printed on elegant linenembossed paper stock. 12" w. x 24" h. (opened).

Lang Companies, Inc. internationalsales@thelangcos.com kelli.melzer@dgamericas.com | 800-262-2611

Patriotic Books and Trivia Cards

Artisanal Soaps

This artisanal line of soaps is made with 100% pure essential oils. Handcrafted castile soaps made in the U.S. with skin-loving olive oil and shea butter.

Old Town Soap Co. oldtownsoapco.com | oldtownsoapco@yahoo.com | 704-796-8775

Antiqued Metal Patriotic Star Pocket

A metal barn star with a front pocket and distressed finish. The pocket features punchedout stars and a red, white, and blue color scheme. Pocket is 16.5" dia. x 2.25" d.

American Pride Chunky Truck

A patriotic wood cut-out with a vintage truck design. 2.75" h. x 4.75" w. x .75" d.

The Hearthside Collection www.thehearthsidecollection.com contact@thehearthsidecollection.com 877-918-1433

30 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

With a new administration comes a new version of The Presidents book and trivia card set. Want even more patriotic fun?

Check out The United States Government book and trivia cards.

Interesting facts for all ages. Made in the U.S.

Papersalt www.papersalt.com orders@papersalt.com 206-748-0055

Custom Map Ornaments

Custom map ornaments made for any city and state on the map.

Katana Initial Necklaces

Each necklace features a hand-stamped initial on paperclip chain. Sold individually or as a set.

Julio Designs JulioWholesale.com | info@juliodesigns.com | 972-712-2888

American Flag Christmas Ornament Handmade mouth-blown American flag Christmas ball ornament.

Egyptian Museum www.egyptianmuseum44.com egyptianmuseum44@msn.com 732-564-0830

Handmade Bath & Body Products All items handmade in the U.S., including organic goats milk lotions, goats milk and olive oil soaps, body butters, all-natural body scrubs, and other fine bath and body products using locally sourced ingredients.

Grecian Soap Company www.greciansoap.com steve@greciansoap.com 951-339-8661

Crystal Magnifying Glass Necklace

Giclée Prints

Antiqued brass, copper, and silver-tone options metal is used both on the uniquely linked chain and the main design’s frame.

Carefully worked filigree is set with twinkling crystals, available in green, topaz, and blue/ purple. A sweet floral pattern rests above the working 1.25" w. x 2" h. magnifying glass.

30" chain.

The Darren Gygi Home Collection is a line of gallerywrapped giclée prints made in the U.S. Available in five Mel Bernie & Co., different sizes, each image is printed on canvas and Inc. (DBA 1928 carefully hand-wrapped around a solid wood frame.

Jewelry Co.)

Sullivan Gift www.sullivangift.com | kay.krause@sullivangift.com 800-456-4568 32 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

1928.com krish@1928.com 818-841-1928 Ext. 1121

Red, White and Blue Décor

Patriotic décor includes a 91" vintage American flag wall hanging, 34.5" black framed flag, and set of three red metal pocket stars in graduated sizes.

K&K Interiors kkinteriors.com customer.service@kkinteriors.com 419-627-0039

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

VJ Studio Handcrafted gourds by a small team of expert crafters in Pennsylvania.

Meadowbrooke Gourds

Carlisle, Pennsylvania http://wholesale.mbgourds.com emilyb@mbgourds.com 717-776-3470

VJ Studio

PO Box 2857, Branchville, NJ 07826 phone/fax: (973) 948-0093 email: vjstudio@ptd.net www.vjstudiosigns.com

Lip Licking Lip Balms Handcrafted greeting cards for all occasions characterized by uplifting quotations and sentiments.

Made in the USA on 100% recycled paper.

Lydia’s Land LLC

Lip balms in strawberry, watermelon, and cotton candy flavors.

Made in the U.S.

TINte Cosmetics www.tintecosmetics.com stacy@tintecosmetics.com 305-793-0399

LydiasLand.com 856-983-7258

Soil Scoop

The 18-gauge premium stainless-steel scoop has serrated edges to cut through roots or cut open soil or mulch bags. Handle is made of recycled materials.

Senior Select Certified. Made in the U.S.

Garden Works www.GardenWorksUSA.com info@GardenWorksUSA.com 425-455-0568 34 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Red, White, and Blue Foaming Hand Soap

Recycled Glass Jewelry

Michel Design Works wholesale.micheldesignworks.com customerservice@micheldesignworks.com 800-708-6950

Peppermint Charms www.peppermintcharms.com momantha24@comcast.net 360-521-7754

Foaming shea butter and aloe vera hand soap in a generous 17.8 oz. size and a bottle that salutes the American flag.

1923-1933 Ball Mason jars are kiln-fired to create one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces.

Handcrafted in the USA.

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

The world doesn't make things the way they used to.

Home is where you hang your hat! Each hat is custom printed just for you.

Julio Designs Frisco, Texas JulioWholesale.com info@juliodesigns.com 972-712-2888

Free shipping on online orders of solid wood signs made by hand in the USA! Sawdust City LLC

Eau Claire, Wisconsin sawdustcitywholesale.com sales@sawdustcitywholesale.com 800-528-6008

Home decor products created from textiles, iron, wood, glass, and more!

Audrey’s YOUR HEART’S DELIGHT

Lebanon, Pennsylvania www.yourheartsdelight.com 717-865-6524

Helps prevent fogged glasses, anti-bacterial, over 400 sprays!

Merlot Corporation

El Paso, Texas merlotskincare.com wayne@merlotskincare.com 915-474-9855

Second Nature by Hand creates quality, one-of-a-kind products.

Viroqua, WI secondnaturebyhand.com info@secondnaturebyhand.com 608-637-8860

but we do.

WALL DECOR TOWELS MUG PAPER GOODS APPAREL

Celebrating with this patriotic pickup truck. Handcrafted metal decoration.

Rustic Arrow Laredo, Texas rusticarrow.com sales@rusticarrow.com 956-729-7741

The NEW Mini Hearth, pictured Strawberry Parfait.

Warm Glow Candle Company Centerville, Indiana warmglow.com marketing@warmglow.com 765-855-5483

For Udderly soft skin, use Farm Fresh Goat Milk Skin Care products.

Windrift Hill Conrad, Montana windrifthill.com info@windrifthill.com 406-278-5872

www.smart-retailer.com 35

Children & Babies Merchandise: Soooo Big! Children’s Cosmic Collection Featuring artwork from EttaVee, this collection for kids includes a locker calendar, folders, journals, box sign, wall decals, magnets, pocket pad, and a puzzle.

Lang Companies, Inc. internationalsales@thelangcos.com kelli.melzer@dgamericas.com 800-262-2611

“Baby’s 1st Christmas” Balloon Ornaments

Celebrate a girl or boy’s first holiday season with one of these 4" hot-air balloon ornaments.

Kurt S. Adler, Inc. www.kurtadler.com | jamie@kurtadler.com | 212-924-0900

SKYZ by LANG 300-Piece Puzzles

Available in four fun designs with glitter or foil accents on each puzzle. Pieces come in a reusable plastic dust-free bag. Puzzle includes an art print guide. Finished size: 14.5" w. x 20.5" h.

Lang Companies, Inc. internationalsales@thelangcos.com kelli.melzer@dgamericas.com 800-262-2611

Kids Hanging Nest/Hammock The Quaran-Tee

A fun new product to celebrate the little ones arriving during these crazy times. Made from 100% combed ringspun cotton, crew neck with threesnap bottom closure. Color is heather gray. Available in sizes newborn, six months, and 12 months.

Made from organic cotton; comes with suspension system.

ZunZun River Travel Hammock Chair

Relax wherever, whenever! Comes with suspension system.

LA SIESTA Inc. www.lasiesta.com | maximilian.grisar@lasiesta.com 786-401-1138

4-K Design Tees www.4kDesign-Tees.com Heather4kdesigns@yahoo.com 617-778-8222

Tell Me a Story Care Package

Includes one “Once Upon a Time” Board Book Garland, Board Book Bookmart set, Dr. Seuss journal, and an oversized “Readers are Leaders” canvas tote.

Attic Journals www.atticjournals.com michelle@atticjournals.com | 503-781-7033 36 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

They are the perfect alternative to paper towels, as they are highly absorbent, lightweight, and dries quickly for reuse.

www.smart-retailer.com 37

“Love You to the Moon” Memory Book

Baby memory book features original hand-drawn characters, moons, and stars mixed with a soft gray and yellow color palette perfect for boys or girls.

CR Gibson crgibson.com | orders@crgibson.com | 615-785-2222

Baby Musical Keepsake

Tooth fairies and moms will love this tooth and hair lock music box. Each box is lined with black velvet and plays “You Are My Sunshine.” It provides space for baby teeth and hair locks and has an interchangeable opening for art or baby photos. 6" x 4" x 2.5".

Dicksons, Inc. www.dicksonsgifts.com |eanderson@dicksonsgifts.com 800-457-9885

Lumbar Pillow

This cotton lumbar pillow is adorned with a multicolor embroidered alphabet. 24" l. x 16" h.

Bankuan Lion Basket

Handwoven Bankuan lion storage basket. 20" l. x 15" w. x 13.5" h.

Creative Co-op www.creativecoop.com customerservice@creativecoop.com 866-323-2264

“Sweet Dreams” Rainbow Wall Art

A perfect statement piece for any bedroom, playroom, or nursery.

Made of real wood, so knots and grains will vary. 23" x 34".

Made in the U.S.

Kindred Hearts www.kindredhearts.com sales@kindredhearts.com 815-230-2700

Milestone Board – Bump Update Perfect for documenting every little detail of pregnancy, this chalk milestone board features spaces to fill in specific details from week to week as the baby grows.

Primitives By Kathy www.primitivesbykathy.com kstrom@primitivesbykathy.com 866-295-2849

Lacey the Leopard Floppy Friend With beautiful, soft leopard-print fur, this understuffed huggable plush toy has stunningly beautiful blue eyes. Part of the Lacey the Leopard Collection.

38 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Maison Chic www.maisonchiconline.com support@maisonchiconline.com 404-749-5000

Give Your Home a Warm

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The perfect summer appetizer!

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1.888.427.3235 • www.windandwillow.com •

/windandwillowfoods www.smart-retailer.com 39

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Beautiful and unique gifts for babies and children.

Maison Chic

Cute Tees to make you smile!

4-K Design Tees

Tucker, Georgia maisonchiconline.com support@maisonchiconline.com 404-749-5000

Marshfield, Massachusetts Heather4kdesigns@yahoo.com 4kDesign-Tees.com

“Dog Is Love” Kids’ T-Shirt

Vibrant art by Dean Russo available in youth and adult sizes.

The Mountain reach.themountain.com sales@themountain.com 603-852-3812

Baby Powder Scented Products

Gentle skin-loving items with Old Town’s special baby powder scent, including soaps, glycerin lotion, and hydrating botanical body and hair mist.

Old Town Soap Co. oldtownsoapco.com oldtownsoapco@yahoo.com 704-796-8775

“One Tiny Face” Print

This 18" x 9" print is also available on canvas and wood products; select images are also available as large format giclée prints.

Penny Lane Fine Art Licensing www.pennylanepublishing.com info@pennylanepublishing.com 937-849-1101

Straw Hats

Pint-sized straw hats in a variety of charming designs including bear, cat, and watermelon. Lightweight, breathable, and providing UPF 50+ sun protection to keep kids cool and stylish this summer.

Kidcentral Supply Canada www.kidcentral.ca info@kidcentral.ca 877-218-0395

40 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Unique Gifts Company proudly presents Lighted Canvas starting at $3.00 each.

Call (724) 873-9100 or visit www.uniquegiftco.com for a full color catalog.

GIFT, GOURMET, AND RETAIL PACKAGING

on the wild side NEW!

©2021

Exotic Jungle and Jungle Spots

800-547-9727 | NASHVILLEWRAPS.COM/SMR www.smart-retailer.com 41

21_0391_Smart_Retailer_MAR_APR Mod: January 27, 2021 10:37 AM Print: 02/24/21 9:55:00 AM page 1 v7

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L ETAI 0 0 R CK 7 , 3 R OVE S IN STO ITE M ORDER BY 6 PM FOR SAME DAY SHIPPING

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uline.com

Sign up online at www.smart-retailer.com or call 855-367-4819 to receive your FREE subscription.

42 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Old Town Soap Co. oldtownsoapco.com 704-796-8775 oldtownsoapco@yahoo.com

Handcrafted in China Grove, North Carolina

Proudly Made in the USA

870-391-2216 • Over 200 Designs whiteriverdesigns@hotmail.com www.smart-retailer.com 43

News Roundup From Smart-Retailer.com

Visit the Smart Retailer website at smart-retailer.com to read the full articles.

CWI Gifts Acquires Bright Ideas, LLC

JuniperMarket Momentum Builds After Successful Atlanta Market Preview

Juniper finished the recently concluded Atlanta Market on a high note with 7,500+ buyer registrations generating major excitement for the spring 2021 launch of JuniperMarket, a new B2B e-commerce marketplace for the gift, home, and apparel industries powered by International Market Centers (IMC).

“Response from buyers has been extremely positive and just three weeks of buyer outreach yielded 7,500 JuniperMarket registrations,” said Eric Dean, president of IMC_di, IMC’s digital innovations division. “It’s proof of the robust universe of the IMC audience and reflects the strong level of trust within the customer base already connected to IMC’s physical markets.”

Campaign Monitor Benchmarks Report Shows Email Growth Tripled in 2020

Campaign Monitor, a CM Group brand and provider of powerful yet intuitive email marketing software, announced the release of its annual Benchmarks Report to provide marketers with average performance metrics. The 2021 Email Benchmarks Report analyzed over 100 billion emails sent globally by CM Group clients, finding that total email volume growth was 7% in 2020 over 2019, an increase nearly three times the amount from the previous year’s growth rate. This equates to more than 1 billion more emails sent year over year by CM Group clients per month, with the highest increases happening in March and July when clients sent 1.5 billion more emails.

44 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Ohio-based CWI Gifts, a leading wholesaler of country, farmhouse, and primitive gifts and home decor, has acquired Bright Ideas, LLC, a wholesale holiday home décor company.

The acquisition was completed on January 1, 2021.

“The CWI and Bright Ideas teams have been well acquainted for a long time,” shared Tara Parker, President of CWI Gifts.

“When Bright Ideas reached out to us in 2020 for assistance with order fulfillment, it was a practical business decision given our fulfillment expertise. The acquisition of Bright Ideas was a logical next step in our relationship and their leadership was receptive to the idea. We’ll take good care of the brand and its customers.”

Kurt S. Adler Celebrates 75 Years of Business

Kurt S. Adler, Inc. is the leading importer and distributor of holiday decorations, and this year is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Begun by U.S. Army veteran Kurt S. Adler after World War II, the business continues today to be run by his children and has become a third-generation family business, as Kurt’s grandchildren have joined the company, continuing to uphold its longstanding values. The company cherishes its longtime relationships, as some customers and employees go as far back as 30, 40, and even 50 years.

Sign up for weekly updates like these sent directly to your email inbox:

www.smart-retailer.com

www.prairiedancewholesale.com Phone: 605.496.7160 Market Locations:

Atlanta B2, 7-751 | Las Vegas C-1106 | Dallas TM 2901

www.smart-retailer.com 45

100% American Soybean Wax

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Atlanta Gift Mart - Building 2 #618B | Dallas Trade Mart - #2810 Las Vegas Market Center - #C-824 | Minneapolis - Orange #317

info@swancreekcandle.com | www.swancreekwholesale.com | 800-626-4590

100% American Soybean Wax Clean Burning | Lead-Free Intensely Fragrant

Atlanta Gift Mart - Building 2 #618B Dallas Trade Mart - #2810 Las Vegas Market Center - C-824 Minneapolis - Orange 317

info@swancreekcandle.com

|

www.swancreekwholesale.com

|

800-626-4590

TM

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and Much More!

Showrooms Coming Up! Atlanta Spring Market Bldg 2, Suite 701A

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Call or Email for an Appointment www.wing-tai.com info@wing-tai.com 1-800-966-2828 757-855-0800

FRAGRANCE I GIFT

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Authentic Goods Made in the USA

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HOLLYBERRY

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Phone: 866-247-0156 Fax: 419-562-3937 customerservice@blossombucket.com www.blossombucket.com

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No Artificial Colors No Preservatives • Gluten Free No High Fructose Corn Syrup Only Pure Cane Sugar • Non GMO

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15

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

Did you know that you can subscribe for

FREE? www.smart-retailer.com 855-367-4819

Cash-and-Carry Wholesale Warehouses A Convenient, Budget-Friendly Way to Stock Your Store

BY DAN BROWNELL

C

ash-and-carry warehouses have played an important role in the gift and décor industry for many years, but now with COVID-19 still hanging on, they’re more important than ever. If you haven’t shopped at a wholesale warehouse before, here are seven great reasons to give it a try.

66 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Lower Travel Expenses

If your store is close enough to a cash-and carry warehouse to make a day trip, you can save a lot of money compared to traveling to a national show by not having to take a flight or stay in a hotel.

Save on Shipping Costs

Naturally, when you’re transporting merchandise yourself, you can save a lot because shipping costs are such a big part of the overall cost of merchandise. Of course, you may need to rent a truck or trailer, but you may still come out way ahead.

No Minimum Purchases

At cash-and-carry stores, you can maintain tighter inventory control by tailoring purchase quantities to expected sales volume and shopper needs, so your money isn’t tied up in excess inventory. With smaller quantities, you can get quicker turnaround to reinvest in other merchandise so you can keep fresh product moving through your shop.

Pick Up Products Immediately

When you purchase and pick up inventory at the same time, there’s less paperwork and no lead time. Just pick up your merchandise and bring it to your store, ready for immediate stocking on your shelves. This also means that your money is tied up in product for a shorter time.

68 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

Examine Products in Person

Cash and carry stores have a big advantage over online purchases, as you can see and touch the products and examine the materials and quality of workmanship. Since you can select the individual items that you will take back to your shop, you can ensure they’re all the correct size, color, and style. And by carefully packing the items yourself, you can prevent merchandise from being damaged in shipping.

Less Time Away From Store

Making a one-day or overnight trip to a cash-and-carry will decrease your time away from the store.

Purchase Trending Products Less Available Elsewhere

At cash and carry warehouses, you’re more likely to find local, regional, and handmade products not carried by national shows.

With increasing demand for handmade and made-in-America products, combined with delayed and decreased imports because of COVID, this is an important advantage.

What Others are Saying About Cash and Carry Warehouses

The following feedback came from readers who responded to a Smart Retailer email survey: “This is a great thing for smaller shops. There are no minimum quantities. I like that there is someone right there if you have a question. One obstacle is, I wish they had woman boutique items. The experience of cash and carry has been a wonderful addition to my business. I feel I can keep to my budget, as I am paying right then instead of ordering blindly.”

Kelly Adamik Kelly’s Salon and Gathering Room Vandergrift, Pennsylvania “I like the idea of being able to touch and feel products. We have all had experiences when we order something from a catalog or online photo and it’s less than we expected. It also allows me to purchase a quantity that better fits my store. I know my shoppers, and sometimes I know I wouldn’t be able to sell 12 of something, but I could six. It helps me control excess inventory and the need to possibly mark down extras just to sell. Variety is the other appeal. I can see items from multiple vendors; some of which I would not normally have known about or buy from. It’s also a great way to test out products from new suppliers. Again, it’s a way to control inventory but still keep fresh new product.”

Sandy Saenz Simplee Stated Gifts Plymouth, Indiana “You can get some of the best pricing and a hands-on product experience, so you know what you’re buying, without any freight charges. However, I haven’t been able to purchase from cashand-carry warehouses in over 12 years because, sadly, there are none in my state. My store is open seven days a week, and I have little time to travel in search of cash and carry.”

Sherri Gray Fancy Finds Payson, Arizona “It helps to shop retail warehouses to save on shipping, but you have to weigh the travel costs that you’re spending against the shipping costs. Also, some of the warehouses have booths with different vendors that carry products that I could get at retail prices instead of their marked-up prices. We just have to be careful and do some research.”

Rita Grisetti Mama Ann’s Gifts & Goodies Moneta, Virginia

70 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

“Take your time when going through, as some warehouses can be overwhelming, and you can easily lose focus.

Think about what will and won’t sell in your store, and then buy enough to make a statement. Buying one or two of something will get lost but if you make a whole display, customers will notice. My customers are always looking for something new.”

Dori Heller Meadowbrooke Gourds Carlisle, Pennsylvania “Being able to shop at cash and carry warehouses allows me to avoid minimum requirements and shipping charges.

I’m able to physically see the item and purchase on site. If not for cash and carry warehouses, I would probably would have had to close. I do enjoy using the cash and carries for my business.”

Wendy Wooding Gingersnap Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania “We’re a small retailer and cash and carry allows for me to better control my inventory. I can buy what I need as I need it.

It allows for me to get current trending items without having to meet order minimums (order minimums often results in excess inventory). Also because of today’s uncertainty with COVID, I’m keeping a lower inventory, as if we have to scale back again, I’m not sitting on excessive inventory caused by minimum order requirements.”

Amy Bridge Butter Street Barn Germantown, Ohio “I love cash and carry warehouses. They’re convenient and very accessible. They always have American-made products, and I can purchase in smaller quantities, and I don’t have to pay shipping. I can buy ahead, meaning for the next season, and I can touch and feel the merchandise. If you go to one, plan ahead.

It’s an all-day buying trip.

Sheryol Threewit All Things Beautiful Gift Boutique Decatur, Illinois

Showing in: ATLANTA BLDG 2 - 759A

JanMichaels art

+

home

Shop with us Online at

JanMichaelsArtandHome.com 717-342-2499

info@janmichaelsartandhome.com

Cash and Carry Warehouses Before traveling, call or check the warehouse’s website to ensure you have the most up-to-date information on store schedules.

Illinois

The Warehouse at Paxton 131 North Railroad Ave. Paxton, IL 60957 www.thewarehouse.website AskUs@TheWarehouse.website 217-379-7033 217-379-3675

Kentucky

StockRoom Kentucky 3686 Greensburg Rd. Buffalo, KY 42716 facebook.com/StockRoomKy kdwholesaleky@yahoo.com 270-325-2969

Ohio

Bright Ideas 4600 S Hamilton Rd Groveport, OH 43125 www.brightideasllc.com 920-887-3881 support@brightideasllc.com Col House Designs 4600 S Hamilton Rd Groveport, OH 43125 www.colhousedesigns.com custserv@colhousedesigns.com 800-777-1442 CWI Gifts 4600 S Hamilton Rd Groveport, OH 43125 www.shopcwi.com sales@shopcwi.com 800-666-5858

The Canton Warehouse 818 Mulberry Rd. SE Canton, OH 44707 www.facebook.com/thecantonwarehouse thecantonwarehouse@yahoo.com 330-933-1195 The Columbus Warehouse Cash & Carry 3131 S Hamilton Rd. Columbus, OH 43232 thecolumbuswarehouse.com info@thecolumbuswarehouse.com 614-839-8444

Lancaster County Showcase 836 Houston Run Drive, Suite 201 Gap, PA 17527 lancastercountyshowcase.com lancastercountyshowcase@gmail.com 717-687-8150

The Hearthside Collection 4600 S Hamilton Rd Groveport, OH 43125 www.thehearthsidecollection.com contact@thehearthsidecollection.com 877-918-1433

Little Valley Wholesale 563 Furnace Hills Pike Lititz, PA 17543 lvwholesale.com littlevalley@dejazzd.com 717-626-9601

Pennsylvania

Primitives By Kathy 135 Independence Court Lancaster, PA 17601 primitivesbykathy.com/wholesale-store custserv@primitivesbykathy.com 866-295-2849

Amish Trader Country 3349 Lincoln Hwy E. Paradise, PA 17562 facebook.com/AmishTrader-131224000230728 amishtrader@comcast.net 717- 442-4141 A.T. Imports 180 Greenfield Rd Lancaster, PA 17601 www.atimportsltd.com webmaster@atimportsltd.com 717-207-0100

Direct International 1536 First St. Newton Falls, OH 44444 directinternationalinc.com 330-872-1138

Audrey’s - Your Heart’s Delight 55 Mull Lane Lebanon, PA 17046 www.yourheartsdelight.com info@yourheartsdelight.com 717-865-6524

Ragon House Cash and Carry Warehouse 10841 Fisher Rd. NW. Bolivar, OH 44612 ragonhouse.com info@ragonhouse.com 877-874-3750

Keystone Wholesale Cash & Carry 180 Greenfield Road, Suite 1 Lancaster, PA 17601 lancasterwholesalemall.com info@lancasterwholesalemall.com 717-295-2570

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Kings Kountry Store 274 Newport Road Leola, PA 17540 allamericanwholesalers.com/ manufacturer/kings-kountry-store nate@allamericanwholesalers.com 717-556-8073

Wisconsin

Warehouse 151 822 Park Ave. Beaver Dam, WI 53916 warehouse151.com info@warehouse151.com 920-356-5003

www.smart-retailer.com 73

BUSINESSBRIEFS

BY SARAH HOBAN

Resources from the U.S. Chamber

One Road to Recovery:

Make Shopping Fun Experiential retail — already a watchword, even before COVID — will become even more important as the pandemic winds down. Writing in Fast Company, Elizabeth Segran noted that “[w]hen stores do finally come back, the savviest ones are going to focus on the delightful, pleasurable parts of shopping, like discovering exciting new products and enjoying in-store entertainment.” Customers, already accustomed to shopping online, will continue to do so, but they’ll focus on basics and staples — things that they already know they want and need.

Instead, they’ll turn to brick-and-mortar stores for what one expert told Segran is “intentional shopping — browsing, discovering, socializing, learning.” One other fallout from the boom in online retail: Because merchandise can be shipped, stores won’t have to carry as much inventory, and stores that once boasted a large footprint could get smaller and move away from suburban strip malls and into neighborhoods. Retailers, said another executive, should note shoppers’ hunger to connect with others after social shutdowns, and look for ways to encourage socialization, such as classes and special events.

Wowing Shoppers in Walla Walla

In Walla Walla, Washington, the city’s Downtown Walla Walla Foundation offered a personalized gift shopping experience for holiday customers. Shoppers could call, text, or email the foundation’s Gift Local Gift Line, describe the person(s) they were buying for and list a budget (the group’s Facebook page noted: “$0?

We’ll suggest the best walking tour you’ve ever seen. $10,000? There’s some great furniture out there. There’s something for every budget downtown.”) The group then gave the shopper three gift options that could be purchased directly from downtown businesses. Free giftwrapping and local delivery were available too.

“The Gift Line was an incredible success in many ways,” said Kathryn Witherington, the foundation’s executive director. “We helped about 30 people find local gifts. My favorite was working with a woman who lives in Africa; I helped find gifts for her parents here. We wrapped and delivered them, and it was such a joyful surprise for the recipients.” More importantly, she added, “It raised awareness in our community of the huge variety, both in terms of products and price points, in our little neighborhood. It also helped our merchants better understand what people were looking for in gifts, which I hope will help position them well for next year’s holiday season.” She said that the group will definitely aim to bring the program back and may even try a scaled-down version for Valentine’s Day that would include both gift-finding and helping with date night plans.

To make the program work, Witherington advises organizers to “know your merchants. It worked for us because we are in and out of our business storefronts constantly, learning about what they offer and who their customer is…. If you want to do it next year, start by visiting your businesses today.”

74 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

One more tool for your toolbox: The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Save Small Business Initiative. The portal lists a wide range of resources for small businesses trying to manage through the pandemic.

These include financial assistance sources — federal, state, and local, as well as private sector programs and assistance.

There’s also a “Guidance, Tips and Advice” list that include information on PPP loan forgiveness, employee screening, reopening guidance. and other resources. Visit uschamber.com/save-small-business.

“Motivation is fleeting. Tap into what people aspire to. Know the value and contribution they want to make to the job or the company, and find unique ways to acknowledge them and give them more accountability on what they aspire to contribute.”

—CHRISTINE NIELSEN, CONTRAST COACHING & CONSULTING, FROM “15 STRATEGIES TO HELP YOUR TEAM DEVELOP A STRONG WORK ETHIC,” FORBES.

Stories That Sell

Fredericksburg, Virginia, has turned to storytelling to help small businesses promote themselves.

The town’s Main Street program — Fredericksburg Virginia Main Street — launched the Scan & Love Project in December to give potential customers a little insight into participating local businesses. FVMS used a film company to create 30- to 90-second videos that included interviews with each business owner as well as shots of the business and other details such as safe shopping information or little-known facts about their building.

The videos were uploaded to FVMS’s YouTube channel, along with additional information, such as address and links to the business’s site. The group then created posters for store windows that included a QR code. Passersby could scan the code and watch the business’s video. As of January, nearly 30 businesses had participated, and the idea won Virginia Main Street’s 2020 Main Street Idea Pitch Competition.

EMBRACE THE POSSIBILITIES Small but Mighty: An Amazon Alternative

How can small retailers compete with the size and the reach of Amazon? Ali Haberstroh, a social media manager in Toronto has given it a try. In November, facing a COVID lockdown, a friend who owned a small retail store gave Haberstroh a list of local shops that offered curbside pickup and deliveries. When Haberstroh realized how successful big retailers had been during the pandemic, “it was a wake-up call,” she told the New York Times. She bought the URL Not-Amazon.ca (for $2.99, the Times noted) and started a directory of local small businesses that can provide shipping, delivery, or pickup. While it started with only about 160 businesses in Toronto, it quickly grew to more than 4,000 businesses in Toronto, Calgary, Halifax, and Vancouver.

Each city is broken into categories, and shoppers can browse businesses and link to their websites to shop. Businesses are free to submit their information for inclusion, and the site notes that more cities could be added if there was a large enough compilation of small businesses — say 75 to 100.

Haberstroh has a full-time job and runs the site on a volunteer basis; she notes in the site’s FAQs, “[t]he site will never function like a multi-billion dollar corporation’s. It is simply a way to search for your current beloved stores, and click around, discovering new gems and new favourites — much like taking a stroll in a new neighbourhood.”

NEW DATES: April 11 – 15, 2021 LasVegasMarket.com | @lasvegasmarket FE ATURED LINE: Demdaco • © 2021 International Market Centers, LLC

www.smart-retailer.com 75

DISPLAY&DESIGN

BY AMY MEADOWS

Sure-Fire Strategies What the Pros Know PHOTO COURTESY GETHSEMANE GARDEN CENTER (GETHSEMANEGARDENS.COM)

Vignettes and curated clusters of props and merchandise are often scattered about, catching the customer’s eye in unexpected locations. Ava Ritz, a Columbia College Chicago VM student, creates not only an appealing color story but places the items to create a triangular arrangement.

PHOTO COURTESY AVA RITZ

Arrangements, displays, and vignettes employing even numbers are best if you want to convey symmetry and completion.

The benefit of working with odd numbers of items — such as 3, 5, and 7 — is that it creates the opposite effect. It creates a feeling that the focus is incomplete. That makes the viewer unconsciously want to stop and look a bit longer. That extra nudge, that additional nanosecond spent gazing, is often all it takes to grab the customer’s attention.

The Rule of Three works equally well as the Rule of Five, Seven, or Nine.

Playing the Odds

An emphasis on odd numbers of items might seem — odd.

But I share this as a reminder that it is often the simple, foundational approaches of good design and placement that have guided creative efforts of practitioners from Renaissance painters to retailers. When scrolling through Instagram or reading the latest fashion or home fashion publication, I encourage you to slow down and dissect an image that you particularly enjoy. The Rule of Three includes using three colors or three textures, as well using three as the guideline for tablescaping, hanging artwork, and even strategic placement of decorative pillows.

At Urbanum Detroit, the shopper is greeted by a seasonally decorated tree — center — with an odd number of containers at the base. Intentional placement creates an important first impression.

76 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

A display from Isles Studio, a merchandising group that incorporates the Rule of Three, but with a twist. While there are uneven quantities at play, there are also three textures (flora, metallic, painting) and three colors (gold, black, and fuchsia), adding subtle differences in light reflection.

PHOTO COURTESY ISLES STUDIO (ISLESSTUDIO.COM)

PHOTO COURTESY URBANUM DETROIT (URBANUMDETROIT.COM)

N

ew merchandise. New selling techniques. New metrics.

Even with so many seismic shifts in the ways we now conduct business, we can still rely on time-honored, tried-and-true rules for presenting merchandise, whether that involves creating a vignette in your brick-and-mortar business or styling an image for online use.

In the last issue, I listed some top tactics used by visual merchandisers. My guess is that many readers employ these strategies without thinking twice. They work, both in a shop and at home. Good design is good design, regardless of where it’s employed. But how and why do these “rules” succeed?

Shape Shifting

Arrangements of odd numbers can be clustered to form a triangle. Whether it’s a flat triangle formation or a more fully dimensional pyramid, our eyes and brain appreciate a central high point or apex. Of course, feel free to change your triangle from the traditional isosceles to the more dramatic right triangle, which will create an asymmetrical focus.

In our Zoom-dominated culture, you may have noticed how some speakers’ backgrounds (especially bookcases) appear wellordered and nicely arranged. Other times, those framed photos, flowers, and candles would benefit from some finessing. It’s not a taste issue. It’s a design issue. Your brain is reacting to a perceived imbalance. You’re far less likely to do a doubletake when the highest point is in the middle, like a triangle or a pyramid. A

row of picture frames or candlesticks that sags in the center can be a distraction to important messaging.

This might translate to the placement of flyers and signs on your doors and windows.

Stand back to evaluate your cashwrap for its alignment and placement and to verify that it’s level. You might not spend much time looking at that space behind you when closing the sale, but it’s often the last thing your customer sees in the store.

The Power Grid

If you dislike taking measurements and establishing repetition, the Power Grid might not be the solution for you. It’s an especially cost-effective way to create a dramatic impact on a large wall or window background, but you’ll need to plan for precision. This option for marking and measuring involves creating blanks of paper or cardboard and attaching them to the wall with low-tack tape. Once the layout meets your approval, grab your hammer.

This is also a great way to “test drive” a wall format, both in the shop and at home.

This technique is best suited for propping, not for holding merchandise. Low-cost prop ideas that work well in layouts and in multiples include plates, cooling racks, embroidery hoops, clipboards, and clothes hangers. You’ll get maximum coverage at minimal cost.

As tradeshows and markets reopen, look to vendors to illustrate many of these failproof techniques in their showrooms and booths.

If it appeals to you, the buyer, it’s sure to appeal to your shoppers as well.

Spotted at AmericasMart, these displays at Napa Home and Garden (napahomeandgarden. com) check every box: height in the center, and groupings of three — even on the perimeter walls.

PHOTO COURTESY AMERICASMART (AMERICASMART.COM)

Resources

As I mentioned, these design guidelines are used in both retail and residential settings. While you might think display professionals are privy to “secret sauce” and exclusive resources, we find our ideas, inspiration, and supplies in magazines, home improvement stores, art exhibits, social media, and YouTube videos.

Many virtual merchandising publications are available, such as Visual Merchandising and Store Design (vmsd.com) and design:retail (designretailonline.com), which provide information on trends and vendors for mannequins, fixtures, and decorative items.

I subscribe to these magazines, blogs, and more but also find inspiration from many home fashion and lifestyle publications such as Country Living and Martha Stewart Living. The use of color, scale, and space can spark ideas for dressing your home’s fireplace mantel or for tablescaping a key fixture in your shop.

Post-pandemic, we hope to see industry trade shows like NY NOW return as live events. Until then, showroom videos and vendor features help maintain industry engagement.

I know we all led productive lives prior to Pinterest, but this platform has become such a valuable source of inspiration for my work. I use Pinterest frequently as a bit of a “workout” for my creative muscles. When working with clients on visual merchandising projects, I find that creating boards is especially helpful when trying to articulate and share ideas. A picture really is worth a thousand words. If you’re working with an architect, designer, contractor, fixture manufacturer, or any other related tradesperson, I strongly recommend creating a board to enable a design dialogue.

Keeping one’s creative problem-solving skills fresh is a daunting task in the best of times. We sometimes hit the visual merchandising equivalent of writer’s block, so it’s good to know we can rely on these time-tested concepts and tactics to produce strong visuals — and strong sales!

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.

www.smart-retailer.com 77

RETAILERSPOTLIGHT

BY DAN BROWNELL

“We get a lot of positive feedback that describes Seven Maples as a quaint gift shop and a friendly, knowledgeable, favorite place to find the perfect gift.”

S

even Maples Gift & Garden in Monroe, Connecticut, features quaint New England charm with an array of accessories, seasonal wreaths, candles, collectibles, custom handbags, and home and garden décor. Owners Brad and Lisa Orr have spent decades building up their business to become a celebrated shopping destination.

Seven Maples Nursery was established in the 1960s in a rural area of Monroe recognized for the seven Japanese red maples planted on the property. Brad was hired at Seven Maples in 1979, bringing with him his passion for the outdoor work and a desire to eventually operate his own business. When Brad and his wife, Lisa, acquired the established landscape business in 1989, they began looking for a location to expand into a retail nursery and garden center. In 1992, they found and leased their new location, a 1,400 square foot

78 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

eyesore, on a heavily traveled road centrally located in their community.

Investing in badly needed renovations and sweat equity, they opened their seasonal operation in early spring of that year.

Brad and Lisa originally intended the business to be a garden center carrying seeds, fertilizer, and related gardening products, but it wasn’t long before big box stores arrived and made it difficult to compete with them. So, the couple slowly transformed Seven Maples into a consumer-focused business offering outdoor products such as wind chimes, flags, bird feeders and bird houses. They’ve continued expanding it over the years into their current gift emporium.

Their prime location has been a huge help. “The store’s exposure and frontage on this busy road allows us to be creative with our advertising,” Brad said. We create roadside ‘eye candy,’ including decorative flags along the peak of our building that we change with the seasons, as well as our 20' tall lighted Christmas tree with snowflakes.”

In the early stages of their retail business, Brad and Lisa became good friends with a couple in another town who ran a wellestablished gift store featuring fresh-baked pies. “We eventually carried their bakery products in our store. This brought a tremendous following from customers, both old and new, and that was the boost that helped get the gift shop off the ground,” Brad said.

As the shop’s customer base began to grow, so did their product lines. They stocked Boyd’s Bears, Ty collectibles, the Vera Bradley collec-

tion, and much more. The store was packed with merchandise, and with so much to offer, customers often made more trips to explore all their merchandise.

Exceptional Employees

According to Brad, their employees are the backbone of the business.

“What’s really made this gift shop flourish has been the dedication of all our employees to help out in the other areas of the business when necessary.” This became critically important during the 2008 recession. They made sure they met the customer demands in each part of their business: the gift shop, the landscaping operation, and the seasonal products, such as bedding plants, fall décor, and holiday greens. The staff and crew met the challenges, and the business came out stronger in the end.

Building a CrisisResistant Business

Eventually, Brad and Lisa negotiated with their landlord to purchase the property outright in 2016, giving them the peace of mind that the business can remain as a small-town gift and garden store.

This put them in a better place to deal with the events of 2020.

“Fortunately, with the COVID-19 pandemic, we were deemed an essential business early in the spring season, and the outdoor vegetable and herbs allowed us to remain open,” Brad explained. In addition, the gift shop manager, Becky,

Marketing Magic

increased their social media outreach and street-sign advertising and began offering curbside shopping as weather permitted. Each day, Becky set up an outdoor table display area with the most sought-after gift items, with puzzles the hottest seller early on.

“When we were allowed to reopen our retail store later in the spring, we did so slowly and with all the proper protocol and PPE in place,” Brad said. “We experienced an overall increase in revenue this past year, due mostly to work-from-home customers who wanted outdoor gardening projects, which boosted the seasonal nursery and garden sales tremendously. We think this will continue as the new normal.”

Seven Maples takes advantage of Small Business Saturday on the first weekend after Thanksgiving through its Holiday Open House event. The shop offers hot mulled apple cider with cookies and candy canes for the kids. This is their busiest weekend of the year. “With sales of outdoor holiday greens and Christmas trees also in full swing, parking can be quite a challenge, which isn’t the worst problem to have!” Brad said.

“During the holiday season, we encourage customers to take family and pet photos showcasing our lighted holiday train or sleighs that we’ve decorated with assorted greens. We also have families who return every year with their children to send letters off to Santa in our Letters to Santa mailbox.

“Our email blasts and Facebook postings keep our customers well informed of the seasonal happenings, and the opportunity to display a sign on Main Street occasionally is definitely a huge plus for us because of the thousands of cars that pass by daily,” he said.

Brad, Lisa, and their employees have weathered many storms and challenges over the years, but their dedication to the store’s success and the commitment to their customers and community have been rewarded with an enduring business that will no doubt continue to bloom long into the future.

Proven Products and the Hunt for New Ones

“Our product lines have expanded over the years,” Brad said.

“We carry brands such as Kringle and Yankee Candle but also found Bedrock Candles, a soy candle made with real fir needles, to be a strong favorite. Our garden product lines such as bird baths, windchimes, statuary, and steppingstones do equally well.

We also have a local crafter who creates and packages beautiful wine and cheese platters, which have always sold well. Our baby gift area continues to see growth too.”

Brad and Becky frequent gift shows and vendor showrooms throughout the year. Becky takes the lead in finding new product lines, while Brad searches for fun things to bring into the store or displays for the outside.

Customer and Community Engagement

“We strive to get to know our customers and greet each with equal importance,” Brad said. “We get a lot of positive feedback that describes Seven Maples as a quaint gift shop and a friendly, knowledgeable, favorite place to find the perfect gift.

“Becky has done tremendous job in keeping with the current trends and styles,” Brad added. “She brings in fresh ideas like hummingbird and butterfly gardens in the spring, and favorite recipes for squash dishes in the fall. She also teams up with a ‘Think Pink Monroe’ event that supports cancer patients and their families, and she helps organize fundraising efforts by contributing a portion of store sales in October.”

FACTS AT A GLANCE Business Name: Seven Maples Gift & Garden Location: 84 Main Street, Monroe, CT 06468 Website: sevenmaplesgiftandgarden.com Facebook: sevenmaplesgiftandgarden Email: sevenmaplesgift@yahoo.com Phone: 203-261-7444 www.smart-retailer.com 79

TR ADE 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 2021

APRIL 2021

GATLINBURG, TN

Norton Trade Show - Spring........... 23-25

WILMINGTON, OH

SEATTLE, WA

www.nortonshows.com

Heritage Markets Cash & Carry Wholesale Show......................................3

Seattle Mart Spring Buying Event....... 5-6

DES PLAINES, IL

www.seattlemart.com

REV Chicago Boutique Show..........25-27

www.heritagemarkets.com

LOS ANGELES, CA

www.silverliningshows.com

ATLANTA, GA

LA Mart Spring Gift + Home............... 5-7

MINNETONKA, MN

www.americasmart.com

ORLANDO, FL

GONZALES, LA

ASD Road Show................................... 8-9

MinneapolisMART Gift, Home & Accessory Show...............................25-27

Gonzales Gift and Jewelry Expo (formerly New Orleans Gift & Jewelry Show)....................................... 5-7

www.asdonline.com

PHOENIX, AZ

LIVONIA, MI

ASD Road Show...............................28-29

Metro-Michigan Women’s Wear Market................................................ 11-12

GREENSBORO, NC

Spring Mini Market.............................. 3-5

www.helenbrett.com VIRTUAL

New England Made Spring Show...... 8-9 www.nemadeshows.com LEBANON, PA

Market Square’s Gallery..................15-16 www.marketsquareshows.com

www.lamart.com

www.silverliningshows.com DENVER, CO

LAS VEGAS, NV

PETOSKEY, MI

See ad on page 75

www.marketsquareshows.com MINNETONKA, MN

MinneapolisMART Gift, Home & Accessory Show........................... 19-23 www.mplsmart.com COLLINSVILLE, IL

St. Louis Gift Show..................................21 www.rosehillgiftshows.com HUDSON, MA

Northeast Market Center March Show...................................... 21-23 www.northeastmarketcenter.com VIRTUAL

New York Spring Home Fashion Market Week....................................22-25 www.homefashionproducts.com PLAINFIELD, IN

The Indy Show.................................. 23-24 www.silverliningshows.com DALLAS, TX

Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market + Total Home & Gift Market............ 23-26 www.dallasmarketcenter.com

MAY 2021

www.denvermart.com

Market Square Order Writing..........15-17 The Buyer’s Cash & Carry................16-17

Greensboro Gift & Jewelry Show........................................... 30-MAY2 www.gtshows.com

2021 Winter Las Vegas Market........ 11-15

LEBANON, PA

www.asdonline.com

Denver Apparel & Accessory Market................................................ 11-13

LEBANON, PA

www.marketsquareshows.com

www.mplsmart.com

www.lasvegasmarket.com HUDSON, MA

Northeast Market Center April Show..........................................12-13 www.northeastmarketcenter.com ATLANTA, GA

April Atlanta Apparel........................13-17 www.americasmart.com GAYLORD, MI

The Northern Michigan Regional Trade Show........................14-15 www.silverliningshows.com MEMPHIS, TN

Mid-South Jewelry and Accessories Fair.................................16-18

Petoskey Gift Show............................... 1-3 www.petoskeygiftshow.com NEW YORK, NY

Toy Fair New York - CANCELED......... 1-4 www.toyfairny.com

HARBOR SPRINGS, MI

Northern Michigan Gift & Souvenir Show...................................... 2-4 www.nmgiftshow.com ATLANTA, GA

Spring Cash & Carry............................ 4-6 www.americasmart.com HUDSON, MA

Northeast Market Center May Show..........................................17-18 www.northeastmarketcenter.com

JUNE 2021

www.helenbrett.com ALBERTA, CAN

Alberta Gift + Home Market........... 18-21 www.cangift.org VIRTUAL

Alaska Wholesale Online Marketplace...................................... 19-23 www.alaskagiftshow.com VIRTUAL

Adirondack Buyer Days................... 20-21 www.adirondack.org/adirondack-buyer-days

VIRTUAL

WWINdow Shopping............... 1-OCT31 www.wwinshow.com HIGH POINT, NC

High Point Spring Market..................... 5-9 www.highpointmarket.org DENVER, CO

Denver Apparel & Accessory Market.6-7 www.denvermart.com LIVONIA, MI

Mid-Atlantic Mart April Showcase.. 21-22

Metro-Michigan Women’s Wear Market................................................... 6-7

www.asdonline.com

ROSEMONT, IL

Global Pet Expo................................ 24-26

TransWorld’s Jewelry, Fashion & Accessories Show - Spring...........22-25

HUDSON, MA

ORLANDO, FL

OAKS, PA

ORLANDO, FL

Philadelphia Gift Show.................... 28-31

Orlando Cash & Carry Show......... 23-25

DALLAS, TX

ASD Road Show...............................24-25

www.globalpetexpo.com

www.philadelphiagiftshow.com 80 Smart Retailer MARCH/APRIL 2021

PHILADELPHIA, PA

www.midatlanticmart.com

www.jfashow.com

www.pinnacle-shows.com

www.silverliningshows.com

Northeast Market Center June Sample Sale.....................................7 www.northeastmarketcenter.com PHILADELPHIA, PA

Mid-Atlantic Mart June Showcase.... 9-10 www.midatlanticmart.com

LEBANON, PA

MINNEAPOLIS, MN

LAS VEGAS, NV

The Buyer’s Cash & Carry.......................9

ASTRA’s Marketplace & Academy..... 5-8

SuperZoo............................................17-19

ATLANTA, GA

VIRTUAL

LAS VEGAS, NV

American Handcrafted Digital Market Week .......................... 5-11

www.asdonline.com

www.marketsquareshows.com

June Atlanta Apparel......................... 9-12 www.americasmart.com

www.marketplaceandacademy.org

www.superzoo.org

ASD Market Week............................22-25

HUDSON, MA

www.americanhandcraftedshow.com

Northeast Market Center June Show..........................................14-15

LAS VEGAS, NV

VIRTUAL

2021 Summer Las Vegas Market.....22-26 DALLAS, TX

DALLAS, TX

NY Now Summer Market Digital Market Week........................... 5-11 www.nynow.com

www.northeastmarketcenter.com

Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market................................................15-18 www.dallasmarketcenter.com DALLAS, TX

Dallas Total Home & Gift Market....23-29

www.lasvegasmarket.com

MIAMI, FL

Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market..........................24-27

Miami Asia America Wholesale Show...................................................... 6-7

DENVER, CO

www.asiaamericashow.com

www.dallasmarketcenter.com

Denver Apparel & Accessory Market............................ 27-29

www.dallasmarketcenter.com

GREENSBORO, NC

KISSIMMEE, FL

www.gtshows.com

SHEPHERDSVILLE, KY

www.gtshows.com

BILOXI, MS

www.rosehillgiftshows.com

MINNETONKA, MN

www.wmigiftshows.com

Florida Jewelry & Resort Expo........25-27 MinneapolisMART Gift, Home & Accessory Show.............................. 27-29 www.mplsmart.com MADISON, WI

The Buyer’s Cash & Carry.....................28 www.marketsquareshows.com

JULY 2021 HUDSON, MA

Northeast Market Center July Show............................................ 11-13

Greensboro Gift & Jewelry Show....... 6-8 Biloxi Mississippi Gift Show................. 7-9 CHICAGO, IL

The Inspired Home Show................... 7-10 www.theinspiredhomeshow.com LAS VEGAS, NV

OFFPRICE Las Vegas.......................... 7-10 www.offpriceshow.com TORONTO, CAN

Toronto Gift + Home Market.............. 8-11 www.cangift.org DES PLAINES, IL

www.denvermart.com

Louisville Gift Show............................... 30

SEPTEMBER 2021 LEBANON, PA

The Buyer’s Cash & Carry.......................1 www.marketsquareshows.com ORLANDO, FL

Surf Expo.............................................. 9-11 www.surfexpo.com GATLINBURG, TN

Norton Trade Show - Fall................. 10-12

www.nortonshows.com

The Midwest Gift & Lifestyle Show.... 8-11

HUDSON, MA

Atlanta Market...................................13-19

NEW YORK, NY

www.northeastmarketcenter.com

ROSEMONT, IL

www.nynow.com

www.northeastmarketcenter.com ATLANTA, GA

www.americasmart.com

TransWorld’s Jewelry, Fashion & Accessories Show - Summer.............15-18 www.jfashow.com SEATTLE, WA

Seattle Mart Summner Show...........20-24

www.silverliningshows.com

NY Now Summer Market In Person Event..................................... 8-11 PHILADELPHIA, PA

American Handcrafted Summer Market.................................... 8-11 www.americanhandcraftedshow.com

www.seattlemart.com

LAS VEGAS, NV

LEXINGTON, KY

Las Vegas Licensing Expo 2021 ..... 10-12

Bluegrass Buyers Market.................. 25-26

www.licensingexpo.com

www.silverliningshows.com

SPRINGFIELD, OH

MINNETONKA, MN

The Buyer’s Cash & Carry..................... 11

MinneapolisMART Gift, Home & Accessory Show.................... 30-AUG3 www.mplsmart.com

AUGUST 2021

www.phillycandyshows.com MADISON, WI

The Buyer’s Cash & Carry.....................13 www.marketsquareshows.com BILLINGS, MT

Billings Market Association Market..17-19 www.billingsmarketassoc.com DES PLAINES, IL

REV Chicago Boutique Show...........19-21

LAS VEGAS, NV

ATLANTA, GA

Agenda Las Vegas............................. 11-12 www.agendashows.com/las-vegas MIAMI, FL

Northeast Market Center August Show......................................... 2-3

COLLINSVILLE, IL

www.pinnacle-shows.com

St. Louis Gift Show..................................15

ATLANTA, GA

www.rosehillgiftshows.com

August Atlanta Apparel....................... 3-7

CHICAGO, IL

WILMINGTON, OH

www.stylemaxonline.com

Heritage Markets Cash & Carry Wholesale Show......................................4

LAS VEGAS, NV

www.heritagemarkets.com

Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show.......................12-14

www.silverliningshows.com

Miami Souvenir and Resort Show....14-16

www.americasmart.com

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ

www.marketsquareshows.com

HUDSON, MA

www.northeastmarketcenter.com

Northeast Market Center September Show...............................12-14

STYLEMAX Market............................15-17 WWIN Womenswear in Nevada...16-19 www.wwinshow.com

Fall Design Week..............................20-22 www.americasmart.com BOXBOROUGH, MA

New England Made Autumn Show.21-22 www.nemadeshows.com CHICAGO, IL

Casual Market Chicago................... 21-24 www.casualmarket.com DALLAS, TX

Dallas Total Home & Gift Market....22-24 www.dallasmarketcenter.com LIVONIA, MI

Metr-Mich Women’s Wear Market.26-27 www.silverliningshows.com

www.smart-retailer.com 81

MARCH/APRIL 2021 Keep Smart Retailer magazine flourishing by letting our advertisers know that you saw their advertisement in this issue.

This advertising index is an additional service. We assume no liability for any incorrect information.

4KDesign-Tees................................................................................................ 4kdesign-tees.com............................................... 40 Alice’s Cottage...........................................................................................www.alicescottage.com...........................................37 Audrey’s Your Heart’s Delight............................................................... www.yourheartsdelight.com................................35, 73 Barn Cat Mercantile..............................................................................www.barncatmercantile.com...................................... 27 Bill’s Ideas DBA Classic Farmhouse Candles................................www.classicfarmhousecandles.com.................................69 Birch Candle Co.......................................................................................... www.birchcandle.com.....................................23, 26 Blossom Bucket ..............................................................................................blossombucket.com.................................. 17, 49-64 Cedar Creek Candles...........................................................................www.cedarcreekcandles.com......................................23 Col House Designs.................................................................................. www.colhousedesigns.com........................................15 CR Designs.....................................................................................................www.cr-designs.com.......................................25, 27 CTW Home Collection............................................................................CTWHomeCollection.com.........................................39 CWI Gifts............................................................................................................. shopcwi.com......................................................2 Dadant Candles....................................................................................... www.dadantcandles.com........................................ 24 Deep Breath Designs.................................................................................deepbreathdesigns.com...........................................42 Earth Rugs/Capitol Importing...................................................................... www.earthrugs.com..............................................37 Greenwich Bay Trading.................................................................................www.gbsoaps.com...............................................42 JanMichaels Art and Home..................................................................janmichaelsartandhome.com.......................................71 Julio Designs..................................................................................................... juliodesigns.com.......................................... 31, 35 K. Hall Studio..................................................................................................... khallstudio.com................................................. 27 Kurt S. Adler....................................................................................................www.kurtadler.com.................................................3 Lancaster County Showcase............................................................... lancastercountyshowcase.com.....................................67 Lancaster County Wholesale Mall..................................................www.lancasterwholesalemall.com....................................5 Las Vegas Market ......................................................................................... lasvegasmarket.com..............................................75 Maison Chic............................................................................................ www.maisonchiconline.com...................................... 40 Meadowbrooke Gourds...................................................................................mbgourds.com.............................................. 9, 34 Merlot Corporation...................................................................................www.merlotskincare.com......................................... 35 Nashville Wraps, LLC............................................................................... nashvillewraps.com/SMR.........................................41 North Country Wind Bells............................................................... www.NorthCountryWindBells.com................................ 43 Old Town Soap Co.......................................................................................oldtownsoapco.com............................................. 43 Prairie Dance.............................................................................................. www.prairiedance.com.......................................... 45 Rustic Arrow.......................................................................................................rusticarrow.com...........................................33, 35 Sawdust City.............................................................................................. www.sawdustcityllc.com......................................... 35 Seaglow Candles......................................................................................... seaglowcandles.com......................................25, 27 Second Nature By Hand....................................................................www.secondnaturebyhand.com.............................29, 35 Serene House USA.......................................................................................serenehouseusa.com.......................................22, 27 Shining Sol Candle Company.....................................................................www.shiningsol.com................................... 1, 11, 26 Swan Creek Candle Co...................................................................... www.swancreekwholesale.com.......................27, 46-47 The Columbus Warehouse.................................................................... thecolumbuswarehouse.com...................................... 84 The Country House Collection.......................................................www.thecountryhousecollection.com..................................7 The Grecian Soap Company..........................................................................greciansoap.com.................................................26 The Hearthside Collection..................................................................... thehearthsidecollection.com.......................................13 ULINE................................................................................................................. www.uline.com..................................................42 Unique Gift Company.................................................................................www.uniquegiftco.com............................................41 Vickie Jean’s Creations........................................................................ www.vickiejeanscreations.com.................................... 43 VJ Studio Signs.............................................................................................www.vjstudiosigns.com........................................... 34 Warehouse at Paxton............................................................................ home.thewarehouse.website...................................... 45 Warm Glow Candle Co.............................................................................. www.warmglow.com............................... 19, 26, 35 White River Designs LLC..................................................................... whiteriverdesigns@hotmail.com................................... 43 Wicks + Scents......................................................................................... www.wicksandscents.com.................................. 21, 26 Wind & Willow LLC....................................................................................... windandwillow.com..............................................39 Windrift Hill ....................................................................................................... windrifthill.com............................................35, 83 Wing Tai Trading................................................................................ www.wtcollectionshowroom.com............................26, 48 82 Smart Retailer MARCH/ARIL 2021

Windrift Hill Goat Milk Skincare......

Handmade in Montana.

2 oz .

Purse and travel friendly size

Farm Fresh Goat Milk Body Care Products Windrift Hill • PO Box 592, Conrad, MT 59425 406-278-5872 • info@windrifthill.com

www.windrifthill.com