GIFTGUIDE JULY 2020 Christmas issue

JULY 2020

FOR HOME & LIFESTYLE RETAILERS. EST.1975

Christmas in July

The best decorations for the festive season

A Classic Blue Christmas

How to use the Pantone Colour of The Year in the home

Christmas comes early

Maximise your sales with social media

The latest products & trends for the silly season

JUST LANDED IN GIFTING...

ALL NEW EMOTIVE POT PLANTS! AVAILABLE IN A STARTER PACK OR INDIVIDUALLY

SPLOSH.COM.AU | B2B.SPLOSH.COM.AU | SALES@SPLO

NOW AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH SPLOSH IN AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

OSH.COM.AU

GIFTGUIDE is published by

THE INTERMEDIA GROUP PTY LTD ABN 94 002 583 682 41 Bridge Road Glebe NSW 2037 Australia Ph: 02 9660 2113 Fax: 02 9660 4419 MANAGING DIRECTOR: Simon Grover PUBLISHER: Mark Kuban EDITOR: Marion Gerritsen marion@intermedia.com.au PRODUCTION MANAGER: Jacqui Cooper

18 IN THIS ISSUE DISCLAIMER:

This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement.

The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information.

The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages.

While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication.

Copyright © 2020 - The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd.

4 giftguideonline.com.au

6 decor the fine art of Christmas decorating 12 visual merchandising inspirational displays for the festive season 18 interior adding a personal touch to the home decor 24 trends unique decorations for Christmas 2020 28 christmasworld what will we find under the Christmas tree this year?

34 social media maximise your sales with Pinterest 38 products the latest gifts & products for the silly season

contents

24 28 6

34

38

July 2020  5

decorating THE FINE ART OF CHRISTMAS

From standalone Christmas trees to gigantic Santa sets, Chas Clarkson creates magical and memorable experiences that bring joy.

W

ith a proud 127-year history, Chas Clarkson is Australia’s leading designer and supplier of Christmas decorations and illumination.

Chances are, you’ve seen its work at your nearest

shopping centre, community hub or registered club.

More than any other year, Christmas 2020 will be a time for joyful celebration in our communities. Chas Clarkson’s team is busy preparing a premium collection of beautiful displays for its clients that will resonate with their customers and create long-lasting memories.

Here are some expert tips on how you can decorate like a pro in order to stand out from the crowd this Christmas.

Christmas trees come in all different sizes and styles. Traditional trees are available in different foliage types and combinations–from standard PVC branches to the more natural-looking pintel foliage. Then there are modern varieties of trees made of woven fibreglass or timber.

Once you’ve made the choice of traditional vs. modern (and measured your ceiling height!) the next step is to choose your colours. A popular approach is to dress a traditional foliage tree with bright and colourful decorations for a burst of fun and festiveness. A feature colour to make the tree ‘pop’ can be achieved with an impactful lime green or a striking navy blue. Gold and silver tones maintain that classic, timeless look to ensure longevity.

Chas Clarkson, Measuring The Joy of Christmas 6 giftguideonline.com.au

decor

July 2020  7

decor

If your tree is going outside, you’ll want your

palette, while cool white lights suit trees with a

decorations to be resistant to the hot Australian sun.

base of whites and silvers. Multi-coloured lights

And if you have a REALLY big external tree, you’ll

are gaining in popularity, especially for larger

need to have it certified by an engineer to confirm

trees, with some lighting systems now able to be

its stability and suitability for external conditions.

programmed into patterns from your smart device.

But your Christmas tree decorations don’t

Lights will always need a dedicated power supply

need to be confined to just baubles. There are

and there are different power outputs available for

a mountain of options to turn your tree into a

different lighting configurations, so make sure you

glorious statement by adding decorative leaves,

select the right one. Power supplies should have a

sprays, 3D shapes, crystals–even birds! And

uniform style of connection to guarantee that they

will you wrap your tree with a spiral garland

will connect to any lighting product, for example

arrangement, or all-over coverage? Try a spiral

the Simply Connect range. One does not need to

configuration for a more traditional approach, or

be performing makeshift electrical work in order to

all-over decorations for maximum impact.

make your Christmas tree twinkle.

Next up are the lights–warm white, cool white

Now for the shining light of every great

or multi-coloured? Warm

Christmas tree–the star. Choose a traditional gold

white lights suit trees with

or silver glitter star to add glitz to the top of your

gold as the foundation

tree. Ensure you choose a star that’s in proportion

of their

with the size of your tree. Take it up a notch and

colour

choose a brightly illuminated LED star. Available in different sizes and colours, this tree top star will make you the envy of your neighbours.

Or for something non-traditional, an illuminated Cosmic star will make it appear like your tree has come down from the heavens above… and is available in almost every colour in the universe.

8 giftguideonline.com.au

decor

For that polished, professional look, don’t forget to add a base to your Christmas tree. Tree bases not only accentuate and elevate your tree but help to protect it in high-traffic areas. The question is: round, square or geometric? Bases can even have acrylic surrounds attached to them to prevent damage and scuffing. Consider adding supplementary decorations onto the base under the tree to create that perfect Christmas moment.

You’re almost there–it’s time to ‘fluff’. Fluffing is the term given to arranging the foliage on your tree so that it looks full and natural… and fluffing is truly a fine art.

Always start from the bottom of the tree, pushing down and opening every branch, then spread them all apart to give that ‘fluffy’ look. Take your time–you can’t rush perfection. Once you’ve reached the top of the tree, give it another once-over to cover any gaps. Don’t worry if there are still gaps as these are perfect places to fit decorations.

Tip from the experts: wearing gloves is highly recommended when fluffing, to avoid foliage burn.

Finally, don’t forget to protect your Christmas tree and decorations in the off-season. Be sure to seal boxes with tape to avoid dust getting in. Trees should always be stored with conical tree bags placed over the top to protect your investment from base to tip. Make sure that your storage location is free from excessive heat and moisture.

So there you have it. Decorate like a pro this Christmas and be proud to show off your magical and memorable masterpiece. You’ll be doing your little bit to bring joy to the faces of many this Christmas. G 10 giftguideonline.com.au

BACK TO CONTENTS

Chas Clarkson Measuring The Joy of Christmas

DAVID JONES

ANTHROPOLOGIE

LAST CHRISTMAS Celebrate Christmas early with these amazing displays from stores around the world

BURBERRY 12  giftguideonline.com.au

MERCI PARIS

MANGROVE

visual merchandising

FEW AND FAR

FENWICK LONDON

DESIGN MERCHANTS

GAINSBOROUGH GIFTWARE July 2020  13

visual merchandising

BERGDORF GOODMAN

DAVID JONES

DESIGN MERCHANTS

KITTY MCCALL

14  giftguideonline.com.au

face masks

visual merchandising

KOSKELA

OPUS DESIGN STORE

PINK SHIRTMAKERS

ROSEFIELDS INTERIORS

16  giftguideonline.com.au

BACK TO CONTENTS

Christmas WONDERLAND

From removable wallpaper to Classic Blue feature walls, Christmas 2020 will be all about adding a personal touch to the home with colour and décor.

18 giftguideonline.com.au

interior

M

ove away from the usual hues of red and green, and celebrate Christmas with the Pantone Colour of the Year instead: Classic Blue. An elegant, confident shade, it pairs wonderfully with luxe pops of white and gold for a calm,

sophisticated look.

Anchor the room with colour Choosing a colour and theme for Christmas decor creates a cohesive, intentional feel, which is important this time of year, when planning and buying new items can be a dizzying experience.

Classic Blue is a strong choice since it can easily make a memorable statement, but also has traditional, elegant roots–perfect for this season.

“An easy way to introduce this rich shade of blue to the home is with a feature wall, which also offers a quick, impermanent transformation to any room,” advises Rebecca Snowden, interior style advisor at FurnitureChoice.co.uk.

“But for more wow factor, a centrepiece such as a beautiful velvet sofa or armchair would really do the trick. Once you have your mainstays in place, you can experiment with other colours and additions. Blue and white is a timeless pairing for a clean and cosy feel, especially when you add warm knits and rugs.”

Embrace luxury with pops of gold and silver Christmas wouldn’t feel right without a little dazzle, and Classic Blue offers a wonderful palette for metallic accents and finishes. Its understated quality means it is difficult to go overboard, while also being bold enough to not get overshadowed.

“Introducing gold and silver tones into the home immediately evokes festive cheer and a moody, neutral backdrop allows these finishes to really shine,” says Snowden.

“For instance, a sculptural silver dining table, or a velvet sofa are luxurious, daring

July 2020 19

interior

choices, and look especially beautiful against a dark blue wall.”

However, there are also smaller, but no less impactful ways to introduce shine into a room. “Being thoughtful about decor is a really important way to tie a look together, especially when working with a theme,” she explains.

“Lamps, Christmas baubles, and even candlestick holders and Christmas crackers in gold or silver can all be fun, meaningful ways to have little pops of opulence for the season.”

Personalise with DIY decor Part of the joy of choosing a specific colour for Christmas decorations is in being able to customise the look and feel to one’s home for a more individual style. One way to do that is through personalised, DIY decor.

“DIY projects come in all shapes and sizes, and some begin from scratch–but a great option is to take what you can find in the stores and give it your own spin,” advises Snowden.

“Adding your favourite leaves and flowers to a simple hoop, which can be found in a craft store, is a lovely project. It’s a simple, yet beautiful centrepiece that comes together quickly, and evokes nature, adding greenery against a blue wall.”

Many people are now working from home permanently or at least a couple of days a week. Employees are setting up their home offices, buying furniture and homewares to make the space as comfortable and cosy as possible. One way to update a space instantly is removable wallpaper. Especially around the holidays it is a wonderful way to brighten up a room.

Deck your rooms and create the ultimate winter wonderland this Christmas with removable festive wallpaper murals.

20 giftguideonline.com.au

From snowy birch trees and curious reindeer to illustrated folklore patterns and mystical landscapes, choose from a vast range of beautiful images and bring the magic of Christmas to your home or home office.

Whether you’re looking to create Santa’s grotto for the children or are hosting fashionable parties, take your Christmas decoration to a whole new level.

Christmas murals are the perfect temporary solution for creating impressive festive décor. Simply ‘peel and stick’ the wallpaper on the wall. Should you ever wish to remove it, peel it off and see your wall return to how it was.

Of all spaces the living room is the life and soul of every home. It’s the place in which we gather to unwind and enjoy time together.

Decorating your living room for Christmas is essential for bringing the festive spirit to life, and is perhaps one of the most important areas to dress for the occasion.

This space offers many decorative opportunities, from the door to the mantelpiece and even to side tables. Choose a colour palette to suit your style, for example, muted neutrals accented with traditional pine green foliage and nostalgic touches of red to complete the traditional yet stylish look.

Decorate doors with a wreath for the perfect welcome; choose an elegant style, such as an eucalyptus and white berry wreath. The cool tones of the foliage perfectly contrast with the warm glow of the micro lights. Add candles of varying shapes and sizes as well as frosted mini trees for a stunning, well-balanced result.

To brighten side tables, place ultra-realistic candles 22 giftguideonline.com.au

BACK TO CONTENTS

interior

amongst white berry candle wreaths. Accessorise with earthenware which will perfectly complement the wooden surface of your table.

Whichever option you prefer, you can make a house a home in many different ways, adding personal touches to your dĂŠcor to truly make it your own. G

Homewares, , gifts , tees tees and teesand and accessories accessories that accessoriesthat that showcase our showcase our showcase our stunning stunning stunning Australian Australian wildlife.

Australianwildlife. wildlife.

Partnering Partneringwith with and celebrating and celebrating local localcommunities communities ofoftalent. talent.

Contact Contactus: us: Ph: 0420 Ph: 0420804 804773 773 Email: Email:

spottedrobin@yahoo.com spottedrobin@yahoo.com

July 2020  23

Santa Express Train

by Ella James

Decorazioni Christmas Balls

by CaosCreo

XMAS IN JULY

Make your Christmas offering special with unique decorations.

We’ve rounded up the best decorations for Christmas 2020.

Wooden Easter Light Box (with 3 inserts) by The Doors of Berry

24 giftguideonline.com.au

Christmas Coaster

by Braided Rug Company

trends

Garden Trading Southwold Stocking in Grey – Felt

Garden Trading Christmas Sack With Snowflake – Jute

Noel hand-painted ceramic bauble by Laura Nevill Christmas Shabby Vintage by wohnflair.com

Mixed Metallic Festive Christmas Tree Living Room

UKHISIMUSI Pillar Candle by Nobunto

BACK TO CONTENTS

July 2020 25

Christmas

WRAP IT UP FOR

WITH

Gibson is the home of giftware in Australia and we pride ourselves on having a range for every occasion. As the biggest gift giving occasion of the year, you would expect we’d have Christmas 2020 well covered and you’d be right. Here’s a snapshot of some of the exciting Xmas ranges that will be popular under the tree this year.

LEONARDO Designed and created by Lesser & Pavey and sold exclusively in Australia by Gibson, we are delighted to offer this bespoke Christmas range from this leading UK giftware supplier. Our Leonardo Collection includes the classic Christmas mug, ceramic candle, coasters, melamine scatter tray and the heat resistant, cork backed, placemat.

lle

tm

ct

ris

ion

Ch

as

ar

tf o rd rom a n o t h e Le

Co

Ke

vin

o the plush k

al

a

KEVIN THE PLUSH KOALA Meet Kevin, who could just be the cuddliest, cutest Australian wildlife present ever. Just like others in the Animalia range he has his own pouch, although in this case it’s a Christmas sack.

Handmade with love, ultra-soft to touch and a nice cuddly weight, Kevin wholesales from $17.50 and will make his home under many Christmas trees this year.

MAD DOTS You’ll be mad if you miss out on our exclusive Mad Dots range. As you would expect, quality is a given with each mug made from fine china. Every piece is beautifully illustrated with a message, from the jovial Ho! Ho! Ho! to the more personalised Merry Christmas wish to a friend. Adding a unique touch of elegance is the fact each mug and candle is embellished with a diamante bling heart. You’ll be mad if you miss out on our exclusive Mad Dots range.

a

rd

io

C

n

sponsored content

s

fro

C m t he B ug Art

le ol

ct

Wholesaling from $26.50 each, your shoppers will really enjoy Santa’s visit to your giftware section this year.

S h ow

case TV

SHOWCASE TV, CARAVAN AND TREE What a showstopper this Christmas will be for your customers with these luxurious TV and Christmas Tree Showcase gifts from Gibson. This amazing looking retro designed TV will fill the room with music as it plays Jingle Bells. On the screen a classic Christmas scene is created while lights illuminate the windows in the building to complete the image. The Christmas tree village also plays the classic Jingle Bells while ice skaters capture the attention by doing laps through the magical frozen fields.

SANTAS Are you looking for Christmas giftware that towers above the rest? Well, look no further than Gibson’s Self Standing Santas. Each Santa face is painted with fine details , with the tallest standing at 150 cm.

BUG ART If your customers are bugging you for something a little special in the way of gifting ideas for Christmas, then let us introduce you to the Bug Art gift collection. Customers will love this range of quality gifts including cards, mugs, carry bags and plates with the most beautiful, intricate designs imaginable.

One of the more delightful quirks of this brand is the fact every Bug Art design has a tiny little bug hidden somewhere in the image.

ORNAMENTS Here’s a bright colourful range to decorate your Christmas giftware section and have buyers hanging around for a look. With an assortment of 18 glass novelty ornaments, there’s bound to be at least one or more that appeals to everyone’s sense of humour.

Wholesaling from $6.25 each, we think you’ll be hanging around the cash register a lot this Christmas.

Look no further for an eyecatching Christmas range this year. Contact the team at Gibson today or speak to your local sales representative to find out more.

feature

Christmas ON MY MIND

The 2020 Christmas season is now more important than ever for both retailers and wholesalers.

C

hristmasworld is always

“Together with the products and services

a great indicator of what we

offered by our exhibitors and future oriented

can expect to see in stores

themes in the complementary program, the trade

for Christmas. Exhibitors from

is entering the new business season stronger than

around the world showcase their latest products

ever before. This is particularly evident from the

for the most profitable season of the year.

optimistic mood in the exhibition halls.”

“As the leading trade fair, Christmasworld

From an overall economic perspective, the

is a reliable partner and driving force for the

importance of Christmas continues to grow–

international decoration and festive articles

particularly as a result of campaigns such as

sector,” says Julia Uherek, group show director,

Black Friday or Cyber Monday and now with

consumer goods at Messe Frankfurt Exhibition.

the Covid-19 pandemic creating havoc for many

Christmas World 2020

businesses worldwide.

28 giftguideonline.com.au

christmasworld

“This is precisely where we come in, winning

distancing’ is taking on a new meaning. “This

visionary partners for our trade fairs in order

is a very important issue, especially after the

to be one step ahead and provide the sectors

experience of social isolation,” says design expert

with new impulses”, adds Uherek.

Julia Nawra of Juni Visuelles Marketing.

So what are the trends you should be looking for?

Now more than ever spending time with family

“The pleasure in small things, importance of family and friends, and willingness to support each other

has become very important–enjoying things in

and share is greater than ever. A withdrawal from

the company of others, celebrating and sharing

globalisation and consumer consciousness is taking

beautiful moments together. Family Matters

place. Sustainability, mindfulness and closeness to

is based entirely on a responsible sense of

nature are becoming more important here. This can

togetherness, and the desire for a more attentive

be conveyed very well with this trend.”

and environmentally conscious lifestyle.

There are three styles to look out for–green

The classic Christmas bauble is evolving into a ‘year-round bauble’, and can therefore be

ritual, silken party and happy get-together. The

decorated all year round. This trend was followed

‘happy get-together’ trend is becoming even

by numerous exhibitors with extraordinary bauble

more important at the moment. This is because

creations for weddings, spring and Easter, or

the concept of togetherness in times of ‘social

sociable evenings.

July 2020 29

Pantone colour of the year, Classic Blue,has also made its way into Christmas decorations.

At Christmasworld, designer duo Rudi Tuinman

What counts is regular changes to the floor space and shop windows.”

Christmas Delights is another option for retailers

and Pascal Koeleman from Dutch company,

to keep in mind. They can liven up their product

2dezign transported visitors away to a deep

assortment in a surprising way. Culinary take-away

blue, elegant world of experience, called Dark

items offer the trade additional sales potential all

Ocean, which interpreted the trendy colour in

year round.

a Christmassy way.

Trade buyers learned how storytelling and elements of surprise can entice shoppers to buy.

“Christmasworld has demonstrated once

“Our customers are looking for a surprise effect,” says Dr. Helmut Jagla of Dr Jaglas.

“Target groups who buy designer furniture also go for high-quality spirits. Our business partners

again how to surprise, fascinate and ultimately

are looking for a niche product; they ask about

convince consumers in the retail trade,” says

natural corks and pay attention to regionality.”

Peter Botz, managing director of Verband Deutscher Garten-Center e.V. “Dark Ocean, above all, offers great ideas for

There is a strong focus again on sustainability and regionality this year. Olaf Panne from the British Tea Shop says that customers are paying

wow effects. Eighty per cent of them can also be

much more attention to sustainability factors than

created with traditional Christmas decorations.

in the last few years.

30 giftguideonline.com.au

christmasworld

“Because our fair trade tea is not only produced

This trend is also reflected in terms of style

but also packaged in Sri Lanka, we ensure that the

and design–baubles, pendants, planters or

value added stays in the country. Our customers

candlesticks feature floral motifs such as sprays,

very much appreciate this,” Panne adds.

flowers and leaves or are made of wood, cork,

Christmas and seasonal decorations are becoming noticeably more sustainable as well,

paper, glass and recycled materials.

The range of colours is correspondingly

both on a small and a large scale–numerous

natural–mint green, bottle green or even fern

products such as candles but also artificial

green, for example, are in fashion. Brown is also

snow, ribbons, cards and gift packaging as

growing in popularity–hazelnut brown, coffee

well as entire festive decorations e.g. for cities

bean or beige, and the Christmas classic red in

and shopping centres are being made of

fuchsia or bordeaux are all the rage.

environmentally friendly materials and produced in a more resource-saving way.

Classic Blue never goes out of style, it is all a matter of elegant staging. Velvet, in combination

July 2020 31

christmasworld

with fresh flowers and plants, adds a refined and cosy touch to winter decorations.

such as tartlets, pretzels or even camembert.

In a positive sign for the industry, close to 700

The festive character of the traditional

exhibitors have signed up for Christmasworld

Christmas celebration is additionally accentuated

2021 in Frankfurt am Main. This means that 90 per

by exquisite chocolates in decorative shapes,

cent of the exhibition space is already filled.

flavoured coffee beans or exclusive liqueurs along with culinary delicacies for tree decorations

The next Christmasworld will take place from 29 January to 2 February 2021. G

BACK TO CONTENTS

32  giftguideonline.com.au

Louis XIV

www.chateaumirrors.com | 0405 238 105 Supplied Australia wide

Beautifully designed, ornate & modern mirrors

comes early CHRISTMAS

Change your plans. Your customers already did.

By Andrea Mallard, CMO Pinterest

B

rands love reaching their most

on Pinterest aren’t delaying. They’re

passionate customers. As a former retail

starting earlier than ever this year. That’s

CMO myself, I get it. When you reach

saying something, because at Pinterest,

early planners, you reach the CEOs of the

we’re used to early. Searches for

household—an audience that buys and spends more. Reach

‘holidays’ start appearing on Pinterest

them first, and you have a shot at being their first choice

months before other search platforms.

when it’s time to shop.

And yet, for as long as marketers and advertisers have

But this year, Pinners are starting to search for holiday ideas even earlier

been prioritising planners—the early, a-types—they’re

than ever before. Historically, people

making some seriously incorrect assumptions about this

on Pinterest start making holiday plans

key audience right now. I heard from a CMO recently: “I’m

in September. This year, they started

holding all of my holiday planning. Nobody is thinking that

searching and saving for holidays… in

far in the future yet.” Right?

April. Holiday searches jumped 77 per

Wrong. Our latest research suggests the opposite. People 34 giftguideonline.com.au

cent in April 2020 vs. April 2019. That

social media

How to show up in time for the festive season Christmas searches on Pinterest in April 2020 jumped 58 per cent higher than April 2019. That included a 156 per cent increase in searches for ‘Christmas aesthetic’–around eight months before December.

Other Christmas-related searches such as ‘DIY Christmas gifts’ and ‘Christmas crafts’ jumped more than 45 per cent and 32 per cent respectively. This year–for planners and the brands that want to reach them–early is on time.

When you reach people first where they make their plans, they’ll reach for you first when they make their purchases. Eighty-three per cent of weekly Pinners have made a purchase based on content they saw from a brand on Pinterest. From plan to purchase, Christmas shoppers are using Pinterest as a full-funnel solution.

People are looking to kick the festive season up a notch this year and ring in some joy. Four in 10 Pinners say they want brands to help them bond with loved ones and create special moments with family this year.

Remember, budget is foremost in the thoughts of early Christmas planners. Forty per cent of the people surveyed said they will be celebrating on a budget this year. Brands and retailers should meet them where they are with early bird discounts well ahead of shopping events such as Black Friday.

Shopping will be largely online this year. Consumers will miss going to stores, shopping centres and Christmas markets to window-shop for inspiration.

Recreate the window shopping or in-store experience by showing up where people go to browse. Invest in beautiful product imagery and video that makes online shoppers feel less stuck and more inspired.

As mentioned before, one in four Australian Pinners are purchasing Christmas gifts for themselves. While gifting for others is a key focus, don’t make it the only focus. Play to the purchases that Pinners might make for themselves.

Things are starting to go back to normal but people

also expect brands to reflect their ‘new normal’.

Remember these four things when planning your content: 1 This season is special. It has been a tough year.

Christmas 2020 will mean more to people than previous years.

2 If you’re not already thinking about Christmas, you’re late. Seasonal searches are already on the rise. Be the brand they discover first this season and you’ll be the first choice when it’s time to shop.

3 Inspired e-commerce is essential. Connect with consumers earlier in the online shopping journey with vivid product imagery to replicate the in-store experience.

4 Make your message loud and clear. Logistics such as shipping windows and non-contact gifting solutions are more front of mind than usual.

Proactively message how your brand is addressing these concerns.

July 2020 35

social media

trend included a 3x increase in searches for ‘Christmas gift

specifically to meet customers’ early

ideas’—eight months before December.

planning needs.

Why the shift? First, there are the rational reasons. People

For example, our research shows

are worried about the pandemic’s impact on preparations

that Pinners who plan are also more

they used to take for granted. As one Pinner put it, “I’ll be

likely to self-gift. This year, we predict

starting to look online much earlier than normal because

they’re also more likely to host for the

shipping delays are quite likely at the moment. You don’t

first time. Consider these different

know exactly when you’re going to see the products.”

planner archetypes when crafting

But there are also more emotional reasons. After a tough

your content—from the self-gifter and

year, consumers are craving the comfort of the holidays. And

the traditionalist to the shipping-first

the early planning that once felt like a chore now feels extra

shopper and rookie host.

special, and imbued with new meaning. One participant told

When we published our research

us: “I really want it to be super Christmas-y and kind of over

I shared it with the CMO mentioned

the top this year... I’ll be going above and beyond with tons

above. Her reaction? “Look, we follow

of decorations and a tree and activities.”

their lead. If our audience is early, we’ll

Our research also shows that Pinners are explicitly looking

be early, too.” Don’t be late to the

for help from brands this year in navigating the shifting

party. Be the brand they discover first.

holiday climate while still making their celebrations feel

Show up on time for the earliest holiday

special. As you develop content, think about designing

planning season ever. G

36 giftguideonline.com.au

BACK TO CONTENTS

Our passion for aesthetically beautiful products drives us to design, create and import stunning pieces which suit every genre.

flairgifts.com.au +61 3 9585 1956

info@flairgifts.com.au

flairgifts

@ flairgiftsaus

2 1

the latest gifts & products for the sill y season

3 4 1. Rogue Eden Australiana wreath and garland, wholesale for $61.34 each. Albi, 03 9474 1300, albi@albi.com.au, www.albi.com.au, www.instagram.com/albiaustralia 2. Disney 101 Dalmations teapot & hug mug, wholesale for $36 and $18.50 respectively. J Style, 02 4225 8811, info@jstyle.com.au, www.jstyle.com.au, www.facebook.com/jstyle.com.au/, www.instagram.com/jstyle_au/ 3. Disney Classic Collectible Mickey Mouse & Eeyore Christmas baubles, wholesale for $9.05 each. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, www.facebook.com/JasnorAUS, www.instagram.com/JasnorAUS 4. Laughing Kookaburra tea towel, wholesales for $18.50. Spotted Robin, 0420 804 773, spottedrobin@yahoo.com, www.spottedrobin.com.au, www.facebook.com/AusSpottedRobin/, www.instagram.com/ausspottedrobin/ 38  giftguideonline.com.au

products

2

1

3 5

4

1. HABA Village blocks, wholesale for $34.95. Bright Wonders, 08 7425 1400, info@brightwonders.com.au, www.brightwonders.com.au, www.facebook.com/brightwondersau, www.instagram.com/brightwonders.au 2. VLUV LEIV seating balls, wholesale from $119 (55cm) to $139 (75cm). Boyle Industries, 03 9874 2266, sales@boyleindustries.com.au, www.boyleindustries.com.au, www.facebook.com/boyleindustries, www.instagram.com/boyleindustries 3. Intrinsic hand creams, wholesale for $11.36.

Intrinsic Enterprises, 08 8232 2366, hello@intrinsiconline.com, www.intrinsiconline.com, www.facebook.com/theintrinsicway, www.instagram.com/theintrinsicway 4. Dark seaweed washed leather crossbody, wholesales for $115.50. Manzoni Accessories, 02 8096 0766, sales@manzoni.com.au, www.manzoni.com.au 5. Urban Greens ergonomic garden snips, wholesales for $15.90.

SteadySticks, 0400 722 443, info@steadysticks.com, www.urbangreens.com.au, www.facebook.com/UrbanGreensCo/, www.instagram.com/urbangreensco/ July 2020  39

1 5

2 4

3

1. Emporium People Pots, wholesale for $4.07 each. Albi, 03 9474 1300, albi@albi.com.au, www.albi.com.au, www.instagram.com/albiaustralia 2. Janod cocoon rainbow turtle, wholesales for $31.92. Bright Wonders, 08 7425 1400, info@brightwonders.com.au, www.brightwonders.com.au, www.facebook.com/brightwondersau, www.instagram.com/brightwonders.au 3. Cat and dog ceramic teaspoons, wholesale for $3.60 each. J Style, 02 4225 8811, info@jstyle.com.au, www.jstyle.com.au, www.facebook.com/jstyle.com.au/, www.instagram.com/jstyle_au/ 4. SKNY slim vacuum insulated skinny tumbler, retails for $34.95.

Alcoholder, 1300 393 022, hello@alcoholder.com.au, alcoholder.com.au, www.facebook.com/travinowine, www.instagram.com/alcoholder/ 5. Reginald the Regent Honeyeater tea towel, wholesales for $18.50. Spotted Robin, 0420 804 773, spottedrobin@yahoo.com, www.spottedrobin.com.au, www.facebook.com/AusSpottedRobin/, www.instagram.com/ausspottedrobin/ 40  giftguideonline.com.au

products

3

1 2

1. Urban Greens organic foliage fertiliser, wholesales for $5.90. SteadySticks, 0400 722 443, info@steadysticks.com, www.urbangreens.com.au, www.facebook.com/UrbanGreensCo/, www.instagram.com/urbangreensco/ 2. Summer tan washed woven leather handbag, wholesales for $135.50. Manzoni Accessories, 02 8096 0766, sales@manzoni.com.au, www.manzoni.com.au 3. Intrinsic beautiful dreamer range, wholesales from $9.08. Intrinsic Enterprises, 08 8232 2366, hello@intrinsiconline.com, www.intrinsiconline.com, www.facebook.com/theintrinsicway, www.instagram.com/theintrinsicway

brightwonders.com.au July 2020  41

1 2

5

4 3 1. Davis & Waddell Loft collection, wholesales from $6.93 to $24.53. Albi, 03 9474 1300, albi@albi.com.au, www.albi.com.au, www.instagram.com/albiaustralia 2. Playforever Verve Leadbelly Sonny, wholesale for $34.25. Bright Wonders, 08 7425 1400, info@brightwonders.com.au, www.brightwonders.com.au, www.facebook.com/brightwondersau, www.instagram.com/brightwonders.au 3. Sun Art Co Japan frog and tadpole tea set, wholesales for $36. J Style, 02 4225 8811, info@jstyle.com.au, www.jstyle.com.au, www.facebook.com/jstyle.com.au/, www.instagram.com/jstyle_au/ 4. Shitake washed leather shoulder bag, wholesales for $89.50.

Manzoni Accessories, 02 8096 0766, sales@manzoni.com.au, www.manzoni.com.au 5. Disney Classic Collectible Winnie the Pooh velvet Christmas stocking, wholesales for $15.90. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, www.facebook.com/JasnorAUS, www.instagram.com/JasnorAUS 42  giftguideonline.com.au

products

2 1 3 1. Davis & Waddell Fine Foods ‘Raymond’ Barware collection, wholesales from $8.16 to $22.48. Albi, 03 9474 1300, albi@albi.com.au, www.albi.com.au, www.instagram.com/albiaustralia 2. Kirra the Echidna tea towel, wholesales for $18.50. Spotted Robin, 0420 804 773, spottedrobin@yahoo.com, www.spottedrobin.com.au, www.facebook.com/AusSpottedRobin/, www.instagram.com/ausspottedrobin/ 3. Urban Greens windowsill kit, wholesales for $22.70. SteadySticks, 0400 722 443, info@steadysticks.com, www.urbangreens.com.au, www.facebook.com/UrbanGreensCo/, www.instagram.com/urbangreensco/

ALCOHOLDER.

ICEELATE IN STYLE WHEN YOU’RE DRINKING, WE’RE THINKING.

1300 393 022

|

hello@alcoholder.com.au

|

alcoholder.com.au

July 2020 43

1 2

5

4 3 1. Amalfi stag, rhinoceros and ground beetles, wholesale for $20.43. Albi, 03 9474 1300, albi@albi.com.au, www.albi.com.au, www.instagram.com/albiaustralia 2. Intrinsic gift boxed mugs, wholesale for $11.36. Intrinsic Enterprises, 08 8232 2366, hello@intrinsiconline.com, www.intrinsiconline.com, www.facebook.com/theintrinsicway, www.instagram.com/theintrinsicway 3. Japanese bowl and chopstick gift set, wholesales for $15.40. J Style, 02 4225 8811, info@jstyle.com.au, www.jstyle.com.au, www.facebook.com/jstyle.com.au/, www.instagram.com/jstyle_au/ 4. Me to You Christmas themed cushion, wholesale for $11.35.

Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, www.facebook.com/JasnorAUS, www.instagram.com/JasnorAUS 5. Birrani the Kookaburra tea towel, wholesales for $18.50. Spotted Robin, 0420 804 773, spottedrobin@yahoo.com, www.spottedrobin.com.au, www.facebook.com/AusSpottedRobin/, www.instagram.com/ausspottedrobin/ 44  giftguideonline.com.au

products

1

3 2 1. Waru the Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo tea towel, wholesales for $18.50. Spotted Robin, 0420 804 773, spottedrobin@yahoo.com, www.spottedrobin.com.au, www.facebook.com/AusSpottedRobin/, www.instagram.com/ausspottedrobin/ 2. StubZero can and bottle stubby cooler, retails for $29.95. Alcoholder, 1300 393 022, hello@alcoholder.com.au, alcoholder.com.au, www.facebook.com/travinowine, www.instagram.com/alcoholder/ 3. Savannah mango multi tool, wholesales for $9.07. Albi, 03 9474 1300, albi@albi.com.au, www.albi.com.au, www.instagram.com/albiaustralia

July 2020  45

FOR HOME & LIFESTYLE RETAILERS. EST.1975

BACK ISSUES FEBRUARY 2020

FOR HOME & LIFESTYLE RETAILERS. EST.1975

MUST LOVE DOGS New pet accessories brand with style

THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS The latest pet products and trends

HOW TO RE-INVIGORATE THE OUTDOOR AREA WITH COLOUR TRENDING NOW: ALFRESCO DINING

DECEMBER 2019

NOVEMBER 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019

FOR HOME & LIFESTYLE RETAILERS. EST.1975

FOR HOME & LIFESTYLE RETAILERS. EST.1975

FOR HOME & LIFESTYLE RETAILERS. EST.1975

5

FAIR TRADE

Does it fit into today’s fast economy?

tips to reduce retail business waste

ALL THINGS SUSTAINABLE Products that make a difference

EtsS OveLgiftsO& N gadge O C E H ti T E innova

Think about drink

Beverage trends in retail

FIV

GIFTS WITH A PURPOSE Brands with a social mission

Coffee time

Why coffee means more than just a caffeine hit

Japanese story

TRENDING NOW Men’s accessories are biggest growth category

Handmade ceramics from J Style

September 2019

JULY 2019

JUNE 2019

FOR HOME & LIFESTYLE RETAILERS. EST.1975

for home & lifestyle retailers. Est.1975

Keeping up appearances

Australian story

Why store design and VM are intrinsic to your brand

What will be hanging on Christmas trees in 2019?

Criminal minds The impact of theft on retail

for home & lifestyle retailers. Est.1975

Trend alert: What’s hot for 2019

Why Bramble Bay is proud of its Aussie roots

Trend alert: Trend alert:

APRIL 2019

The big green

Beeswax, soy & scents

Tips & tricks to some basic visual merchandising Proudly supported by the Australian Gift & Homewares Association - the Voice of the Industry

How to use plants to brighten up the home

In focus

C&A Homewares

Proudly supported by the Australian Gift & Homewares Association - the Voice of the Industry

1