February 2013 GDA by Sandow Media

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Featuring 速

see p. 113 HOME FASHION CANDLES BATH & BODY STATIONERY GOURMET GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS PLAYTHINGS

FEBRUARY 2013 GIFTSANDDEC.COM

false cover 2.indd 1

1/23/2013 3:58:06 PM

3 1 0 2 n o i h s a F Doug l a sT oy s. com

er avits Cent J 9 3 6 h Boot TOYFAIR

1-800-992-9002 Circle #124

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 3:53:52 PM

of exce

GDA ished

Home

Vol. 114, no.2

FasHion candles batH & body stationery

New Toys to Drive Sales

gourmet

IN THIs Issue:

giFtables Holidays

February 2013 giftsanddec.com

GDA_Cover_02_24_adr.indd 1

Eye on Product Safety Kitchen Papers Sun Shines on Fashion

playtHings

plus:

1/24/13 5:36 PM

DESIGNS THAT RETAIL

DELIVERY YOU CAN COUNT ON

THE LOOK. THE COLOR. THE STYLE.

textiles U ceramics U giftables U everyday U holiday U 800.326.3382 U www.split-p.net Circle #151

Untitled-7 1

1/16/2013 4:56:05 PM

Circle #142

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 3:33:45 PM

Circle #140

Untitled-1 1

1/15/2013 10:21:31 AM

™

10% off Thomas Wooden Railway*

Proudly introduces Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway in 2013! FREE Demo Table and merchandise rack with qualifying orders!

Contact toymaster@mattel.com or 800.736.9444 to order. *Use promotional code “GDATWR” for 10% off opening order.

www.mattelpartners.com (c) 2013 Mattel, Inc. (c) 2013 Gullane (Thomas) Limited *10% off offer valid on all Thomas & Friends™ Wooden Railway items. Offer only valid for Ärst time Fisher Price™ orders of Thomas Wooden Railway items. Offer not valid on Thomas & Friends™ Trackmaster, Take-N-Play, or Pre-School items. Offer valid 2/1/13 thru 4/1/13. Not valid with any other offers or discounts. Quantity limits and other restrictions and conditions may apply.

Circle #144

Untitled-5 1

1/21/2013 1:16:25 PM

dazzle me

Radiating with color, these daisies will get your head spinning.

Mona B. adds a spark to any outfit with handbags and accessories that are fun and flattering. Choose from over a dozen patterns to fit every occasion! Call 866.742.5443 or visit mona-b.com to request a catalog.

Mona B. is a division of IHF Home DĂŠcor. For more great products, visit us at ihfhomedecor.com.

Untitled-6 2

1/17/2013 3:36:08 PM

JFD<K?@E> =FI <M<IP ?FD<

EFK ALJK =FI PFLI K89C< )'(* Xe[ @?= _Xm\ X cfk è jkfi\ ]fi pfli _fd\ N`k_ efk fecp kXYc\ cè\ej Xe[ _fd\ [\Zfi# @?= Xcjf ]\Xkli\j X ]lcc cè\ f] YiX`[\[ il^j kf glcc k_\ n_fc\ cffb f] Xep iffd kf^\k_\i% 8cc f] fli Zfcc\Zk`fej Xi\ ]lccp Zffi[èXkè^ kf dXb\ jli\ \m\ip [\kX`c `j Zfm\i\[ I\hl\jk X ZXkXcf^ kf j\\ fli e\n X[[`k`fej%

`_]_fd\[\Zfi%Zfd /--$G@:B$@?= /--$.+)$,++* =fccfn lj Xk ]XZ\Yffb%Zfd&`e[`X_fd\]Xj_`fej ]fi k_\ cXk\jk `e]fidXk`fe Xe[ jg\Z`Xcj% Circle #137

Untitled-6 3

1/17/2013 3:36:24 PM

Circle #113

Untitled-7 1

1/16/2013 2:56:47 PM

HOME

>table

of contents

FEBRUARY 2013 | GIFTSANDDEC.COM FASHION

>departments > Editor’s Letter 12 Re: Gifting 14

CANDLES

Backstory 158 Marking its 90-year milestone making Madame Alexander dolls, the newly acquired Alexander Doll Company has much to celebrate. | By Kathy Krassner We Ask 160 When you go to market you become the customer. What advice to you have for vendors?

BATH & BODY

>fashion>

>candles>

>bath and body>

Exotic bedding + garden themes for inside the home, and out.

Make a fashion statement in green + summer looks.

Lock your love + wood wicks and candles that double as skin moisturizers.

Caldrea’s full personal care line + bath and body for the tween set.

Spring Awakening 45

Gorgeous in Green 55

Home Fresh 79

Into the Wood 70

Fertile Ground 48

A Touch of Gold 63

Softer Scents 72

Tween Spirit By Tina Benitez-Eves 80

>stationery>

>gourmet>

>giftables>

>holidays>

Must-haves for Mother’s Day + papers for the kitchen and cards for baby.

Keeping things clean in the kitchen + an assortment of gourmet nut blends.

Desk accessories + worldly looks and geometric patterns.

Decorative Christmas trees + vintage looks and burlap decorations.

Memories for Mom 85

Get Pumped 93

Preparing the Kitchen By Kathy Krassner 86

Going Nuts! 94

GOURMET

Love Locked 69

All A-Flutter 46

Lovin’ Summer By Bessie Nestoras 56

STATIONERY

>home>

Spring Garden 49

GIFTABLES

Global Chic 98

Clean Cooking 95

Tree Crafted 107 Old Scenes 108

PLAYTHINGS

Playful Patterns 100

HOLIDAYS

Get a Hold 97

Big and Burly 109

Magnetic Messages 89 Messages for Mom 90 Hey Baby! 91 ON THE COVER: (Right) Rubber Nubber tractor and car. $15. BeginAgain Toys. 970.372.0522. www.beginagaintoys.com. CIRCLE #860

(top) Magic Forest Friends Playbook and Pull Toy (left). $35 and $28. Haba. 800.468.6873. www.habausa.com. CIRCLE #955

Postal id statement is located on masthead page 10

gda1302TOCid 7

giftsanddec.com

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№7

1/24/2013 2:59:22 PM

HOME

FASHION

ECO-FRIENDLY GIFT & GOURMET PACKAGING

Toy Fair introductions, toy design, business basics for store owners and what’s next in toys for the year ahead 113

BODY

CANDLES

100% Recycled Midnight Poppies Packaging Collection

BATH

>business It All Adds Up 16

STATIONERY

News Roundup 18 Brandwise Barometer: Sales Fluctuation 22 B2B Online: Funneling Sales 24 Follow the Money, But Be Careful 26 By Randy Eller

GOURMET

New Personalization By Eric Dean 28 Taking Stock By Stu Teller 30

GIFTABLES

Safety Nets 32 By Tina Benitez-Eves

>retail

HOLIDAYS

Visual Merchandising 36 Marvelously Macabre By Linda Cahan Retail Enabler 38 The Application By Cinda Baxter The Gifted Retailer: The Silk Road 40 By Colleen Bohen

PLAYTHINGS

REA: Why Enter? 42

GET YOUR FREE CATALOG!

800-547-9727 www.NashvilleWraps.com/GDA

>markets Show Previews: Chicago, Boston, Dallas and Las Vegas 150 Market Calendar 154

Circle #148

№8

gda1302TOCid 8

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

giftsanddec.com

1/24/2013 12:44:39 PM

BE L L A TAY LOR HANDBAGS, TRAVEL AND ACCESSORIES

FRESH STYLE •6 N E W CO LO R S FO R S P R I NG •7 N E W S I Z E S FO R S P R I NG •F I X T U R E P RO G R A M AVA I L A B L E

MYBELLATAYLOR.COM 888.334.3099

A COMPLETE SELECTION OF PRINTED AND PATCHWORK LOOKS AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE SHIPMENT WITH CONTINUING LAUNCHES EVERY SIX MONTHS

Circle #170

Untitled-1 1

1/16/2013 2:18:42 PM

FASHION

HOME

gifts and decorative accessories

Caroline Kennedy EDITOR IN CHIEF

ckennedy@giftsanddec.com SENIOR EDITOR

CANDLES

BUSINESS EDITOR EDITORS-AT-LARGE CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

BODY

PUBLISHER MIDWEST, PENNSYLVANIA AND CANADA WEST COAST, LOUISIANA NORTHEAST/SOUTHEAST

BATH

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING DIRECTOR OF WEB OPERATIONS AUDIENCE MARKETING DIRECTOR ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER PRODUCTION MANAGER DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

STATIONERY

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Bessie Nestoras • bnestoras@giftsanddec.com Tina Benitez-Eves • teves@giftsanddec.com Kathy Krassner • kkrassner@giftsanddec.com Pamela Brill • pambrill@talkingwalnut.com Linda Cahan, Carol L. Schroeder, Richard Gottlieb, Melissa Haberstroh, Cinda Baxter, Christi Tasker, Ken Nisch, Mary Liz Curtin, Randy Eller, Eric Dean, Brett Goldberg, Stu Teller Desiree Nunez • dnunez@giftsanddec.com Warren Shoulberg • wshoulberg@giftsanddec.com Nancy Wolkow 646.805.0228 • nwolkow@giftsanddec.com Garry P. Grenier 224.558.9996 • ggrenier@giftsanddec.com Kimberly Barbis 424.216.1573 • kbarbis@giftsanddec.com Leigh Rippy 336.605.1136 • lrippy@giftsanddec.com Spencer Whittle 336.605.1027 • swhittle@sandowmedia.com Karen Hancock 336.605.1047 • khancock@sandowmedia.com Chris Schultz 336.605.1076 • cschultz@sandowmedia.com Allison Ternes 704.573.9007 • aternes@sandowmedia.com Virginia Engle 646.805.0234 • vengle@giftsanddec.com Chris Nicely 336.605.1058 • cnicely@giftsanddec.com Mynda Bullock • mbullock@sandowmedia.com 800.309.3332, Outside of U.S.: 515.247.2984

Adam I. Sandow CHAIRMAN AND CEO

VICE PRESIDENT OF CREATIVE AND EDITORIAL CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER PRESIDENT OF FURNITURE TODAY RETAIL GROUP

GOURMET

DESIGN DIRECTOR SENIOR DESIGNERS, SPECIAL PROJECTS

Yolanda E. Yoh Christopher Fabian Kevin Castellani Dean Sebring Alvaro Diaz-Rubio, Valerie Sebring, Alyson Stokkers

OVERSEAS SALES HONG KONG, INDONESIA, KOREA, MALAYSIA, PHILIPPINES, SINGAPORE, TAIWAN, THAILAND

GIFTABLES

INDIA

MEXICO

HOLIDAYS

CHINA

PLAYTHINGS

360 PARK AVE SOUTH 17TH FLOOR NEW YORK, NY 10010

Quentin Chan quentinchan@leadingm.com Leading Media Ltd., Kowloon, Hong Kong (852) 2366 1106 Fax: (852) 2366 1107 Kaushal Shah kaushal@kaushals.com Mumbai, India +91 22 2305 9305 Terry Weinberg salproterry@yahoo.com.mx Grupo Salpro S.A. de C.V., Mexico City 5255 5276-6380 Fax: 5255 5273-1681 Nancy Yu nancy@oceaniamedia.com Oceania International Group Ltd., Shanghai, China +86 21 61409866 Fax: +86 21 6539 0321

3731 NW 8TH AVE BOCA RATON, FL 33431 561.750.0151 sandow.com

Gifts and Decorative Accessories® (USPS 432-050) (ISSN 0016-9889), the international publication of the gift industry, is published monthly except for the combined March/April and September/October issues by Sandow Media, 360 Park Ave. South, 17th floor, New York, NY 10010-1710. Subscription rates: $63.99 one year, $124.99 two years, $179.99 three years in the U.S. Additional subscription rates: (Canada/Mexico) $69.99 one year; $130.99 two years, $185.99 three years; other international, $199.99 one year. Single copy sales: $10.00 (US). Canada Post International Publications Mail Product (Canadian Distribution) Sales Agreement No. 40624074. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PO Box 503, RPO West Beaver Creek, Richmond Hill, ON L4B 4R6. In other countries, $159.99 one year. Subscription address: Gifts and Decorative Accessories®, P.O. Box 5879, Harlan, IA 51593-1379; (800) 309-3332. Outside the United States, call (515) 247-2984. Requests may also be e-mailed to us at GDAcustserv@cdfulfillment.com. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY, and additional mailing offices. Please give 60 days notice for change of address. Direct other inquiries to: Gifts and Decorative Accessories, 360 Park Ave. South, 17th floor, New York, NY 10010; (646) 805-0228. Copyright © 2013 by Sandow Media; all rights reserved. Gifts and Decorative Accessories® and Gifts and Dec® are registered trademarks of Sandow Media. Printed in the USA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Gifts and Decorative Accessories®, P.O. Box 5879, Harlan, IA 51593-1379. Publications Mail Agreement No. 40624074. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PO Box 503, RPO West Beaver Creek, Richmond Hill, ON L4B 4R6.

giftsanddec.com

№ 10

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302Mastheadid 10

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 4:58:49 PM

New for 2013

SHELF PAPER Time to line your shelves with new paper. Box signs have gone from plain to dressy with decorative paper sides. Circle #183

Untitled-7 1

1/16/2013 4:54:49 PM

HOME FASHION

Come here often, Caroline?

>editor’s letter

Drawing a Blank

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

Whenever I can.

GIFTABLES

Endless finds for every room, all under one very big roof. Make your travel plans now to attend.

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

Dallas Total Home & Gift MarketTM March 21-24, 2013 June 19-25, 2013

W H AT D O YO U D O W H E N YO U A R E T RY I NG T O T H I N K O F S O M E T H I NG N E W A N D D I F F E R E N T T O W R I T E/ D O/ D E S I GN/ W H AT E V E R A N D YO U D R AW A B L A N K ?

We all have those moments. I certainly do many times when I sit down to write this column. What shall I write about; what do I have to say; what words of wisdom do I have to impart? Well, that’s where I was this month and decided that this topic is appropriate. So, where should you look for inspiration? There are at least two different directions that I can think of and there may be others that don’t come to mind at the moment (drawing a blank?) One is to look to the tried and true—whether it is a successful store event, best selling product or story idea—and put a new, updated twist on it. This is the easier thing to do. The other is to look outside our own business/industry/community for ideas that might be adapted. Look at what is going on in the fashion/technology/entertainment/auto or other industry that you can draw upon. This is more difficult, but not impossible, to see how something might be applied. Nevertheless, there really T H E R E R E A L LY S H O U L D N E V E R B E should never be a shortage A S H O RTAGE O F I DE A S O U T T H E R E of ideas out there to draw T O DR AW FR O M , YO U J U S T H AV E from, whether you are a T O B E O PE N T O T H E M . designer, manufacturer or retailer. You just have to be open to it. In fact, much of what is out there these days productwise is an adaptation of something that has been done before, thus we have Vintage, Retro, Industrial Chic, Pop, etc. But each iteration has a new version. The Pop of today is not the same Pop of the ’60s, and thus fresh and new. The winter markets should be providing a wealth of ideas for retailers especially to take home and use. What showroom events were fun for you or got you excited? How about trying something similar in your store for your customers to enjoy? What displays caught your eye? Take that idea back home and reinterpret it using your own merchandise. Don’t forget to also look to what has worked successfully for you (or other retailers) before, especially when it comes to marketing and store events. Run with that idea, but put a fresh face on it. Just as you go to market looking for the fresh and new, so are your customers. You don’t want them to think, “Been there, done that….” One last thing…Still stymied? Take a walk, clear your head. Ideas will come.

—Caroline Kennedy, Editor-in-Chief dallasmarketcenter.com I (214) 744-7444 Circle #121

№ 12

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302EditorsLetterid 12

giftsanddec.com

1/24/2013 11:47:28 AM

Circle #136

Untitled-1 1

5/21/2012 11:27:55 AM

FASHION

HOME

See anything you like, Warren?

>re: gifting

Selling Made in America

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

Oh, just everything.

GIFTABLES

Endless finds for every room, all under one very big roof. Make your travel plans now to attend.

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

Dallas Total Home & Gift MarketTM March 21-24, 2013 June 19-25, 2013

dallasmarketcenter.com I (214) 744-7444

S O, T H E R E ’ S A N E W S T U DY O U T F R O M S O M E FA NC Y - S C H M A NZ Y C O NS U LT I NG F I R M O N C O NS U M E R AT T I T U D E S A B O U T M A D E I N A M E R I CA P R O D U C T S .

The take-away from the research is that 80 percent of Americans say they will pay more for a product made in the United States, with some products like baby toys garnering a 60 percent premium in price if they are made here versus made “there.” Coming on the heels of Walmart’s announcement that it will allocate $50 billion in retail price point buying power to domestically made products, it seems that everyone is all hot and bothered about the concept of Made in America. To all of which I say—with all due respect to mom, apple pie and the Boston Consulting Group—malarkey. (I actually said something much stronger, but GDA is a family publication.) We all want to do the right thing; supporting American jobs and the domestic economy certainly qualifies under that heading. Unemployment remains way too high and the demise of the manufacturing base of this country is a sad occurrence. But let’s face it: We live WE LIVE IN A WALMART WORLD AND in a Walmart world and we have become used to—make HAVE BECOME ADDICTED TO PAYING LOW PRICES. IT’S MALARKEY TO that addicted to—paying EXPECT THAT TO CHANGE TOO MUCH. low prices for just about everything. It’s certainly not unique to the gift and home trade and is in fact ubiquitous throughout the entire consumer products world. In the real world, let’s see what happens when that survey respondent walks into Walmart to buy a plastic toy for their child or grandchild and is confronted with two similar items, one made in Shenzhen, China, costing $4.99 and one made in Shelburne, VT, priced at $7.98. Which one are they really going to buy? Good intentions just don’t always translate into good business. I’m not being unpatriotic here. I think we all just have to be realistic that our conspicuous consumption economy is based on access to inexpensive goods. It’s just a bunch of malarkey (again, use the stronger expletive of your choice) to expect that to change too much. Which is not to say Made in America is a fantasy. Far from it. With the cost of transportation rising, currencies shifting and Asian nations transitioning their own domestic economics, goods made in the U.S. can be competitive in price with imports in certain situations. All things being equal, a domestic manufacturing label can be a terrific deciding factor for shoppers deciding what to buy. Let’s just keep this whole thing in perspective. We support products made in America…but not phony sentiments made up in America. —Warren Shoulberg, Editorial Director

Circle #122

№ 14

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302Warrenid 14

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 3:14:12 PM

Fun. Festive.

Fabulous. Fashionable and fresh. That’s what you’ll find at Transpac. Our

selection of gifts is unmatched in the industry for fashion and value. We add thousands of new products each year to our holiday, floral and garden lines to ensure you get fresh looks with fashion-forward styling. Combine that with exceptional service and complete dedication and you’ll find Transpac is the right choice time and time again for seasonal gift giving products.

Transpac Imports Inc. Everything You Expect From A Leader.

1050 Piper Drive • Vacaville, CA 95688 P 800.449.9903 • F 800.449.9909 www.shoptii.com

Circle #167

Untitled-7 1

1/16/2013 4:17:38 PM

HOME FASHION

>business IT ALL ADDS UP

MOMS LOVE GIFTS

AnalyzingShoppers

86% | of mothers would prefer to get a special gift or

CUSTOM E RS’ DIGITAL BE HAV IOR IS OUT PACI NG MARKET E RS’ ABI LIT Y TO RESP OND AND GUI DE T H E BU YI NG PRO CE SS, ACC ORDI NG TO “T H E NEW PARADIG M OF PRE DICT I V E ANALY T ICS” ST UDY BY FORREST E R RESEARC H.

CANDLES

even a romantic rendezvous on Valentine's Day, according to a recent study by Totsy.com.

74% | like to receive jewelry on V-Day. 73% | prefer flowers to anything else.

BODY

64% | of moms love Valentine's Day, 35% are indifferent to the holiday and only one percent would rather live without it.

• Of those surveyed, 45% plan to expand or implement analytics software in the next year.

BATH

61% | like to get chocolate or candy on February 14.

• The study found that 75% of respondents (marketing professionals in retail, media and consumer service companies) indicated that maximizing the lifetime relationship of a customer is the driving force behind the implementation of new analytics technologies.

STATIONERY

Holiday 2012 Sales Report THE NATIONAL RETAIL FEDERATION (NRF) REPORTED AN INCREASE IN DECEMBER HOLIDAY SALES BY 3% TO TO $579.8 BILLION IN 2012. December retail sales (excluding automobiles, gas stations and

GOURMET

restaurants) increased .8% seasonally from November and increased 2.1% in comparison to 2011. Furniture and home furnishing stores’ sales increased 1.4% seasonally and increased 3% year-over-year, while health and personal care stores’ sales increased 1.4 percent from November and decreased .7% from 2011.

GIFTABLES

79%

Desire Mobile Stores

HOLIDAYS

Consumers want more delivered to their mobile devices while in store to get the full shopping experience.

PLAYTHINGS

Respondents to the Latitude, Next-Gen Retail: Mobile & Beyond study said that retailers should offer more mobile product information, which can help mitigate frustrations like waiting in the check-out line and help personalize their shopping experience. The study found that 79% of participants want digital content, including demo videos, product recommendations, information about a product’s origin and more delivered to their mobile phones while shopping in a store, and 50% say that a well-executed, location-aware mobile alert makes them more likely to visit the store soon.

№ 16

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302AllAddsUpid 16

Retailers Work Omnichannels > OPTIMAL GAIN. More than half (51%) of retailers surveyed said their top priority for the new year is site optimization, including checkout optimization, alternative payments, user experience, testing and product detail page enhancements, according to the 2013 Shop.org, Forrester Research State of Retailing survey. > MOBILITY. The survey also found that 43% of retailers noted tablets and mobile capabilities as part of their top three priorities for 2013 and plan to invest in new or improved mobile apps and mobile-optimized sites, analytics, and traffic and conversion growth. > SELLING OUT. Of the retailers surveyed, 36% of retail-

ers surveyed say that mobile sales and traffic have helped their overall web conversion rate, while 29% have felt a negative impact. > REDESIGNED. More than one-quarter (27%) of retailers surveyed plan to prioritize the redesign of their site, including implementing responsive design changes.

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 4:27:53 PM

ph: 800-662-5923 www.BlossomBucket.com

ORDER TODAY!

Scan our QR code with your smartphone to go to our website!

Like us on

facebook

PERMANENT SHOWROOMS: NEW SHOWROOM! Las Vegas World Market Center: Showroom C-0829 Corporate Headquarters: North Lawrence, OH AmericasMart Gift Mart: Building 2, Showroom 701 Circle #117

Untitled-7 1

1/16/2013 2:55:44 PM

HOME FASHION

>business NEWS ROUNDUP

ART Awards Winnners Named

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

DALLAS – Members of the home furnishing and decor manufacturing, design, retail and related industries gathered at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas for the presentation of the 24th annual ARTs Awards by the Dallas Market Center and the Accessories Resource Team (ART). Bill Winsor, CEO of Dallas Market Center, and Sharon Davis, executive director of ART, welcomed the large crowd. The Academy of Achievement Lifetime Achievement Award went to family-run Uttermost and the Cooper family. New this year, the Visionary Award was presented to Dwell with Design, an organization that makes a house a home for those in need.

Southworth Acquires the Madison Park Group

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

AGAWAM, MA – Southworth Company has acquired The Madison Park Group. Under the acquisition, The Madison Park Group and its employees will remain headquartered in Seattle and retain the company’s name and business model under the leadership of co-presidents Brian Jacobsen and Glen Biely. Founded in 1839, the Southworth Company produces a full range of specialty papers at its paper mill in Turners Falls, MA. Throughout the years, Southworth has expanded into the social expressions industry with the purchase of Lallie, a line of personalized invitations, cards and gifts, and now the acquisition of The Madison Park Group.

№ 18

Monkeez Makes a Difference debuted new plush characters at this year's Atlanta winter market.

in an effort to re-establish Chicago’s position as the leading gift trade area in the Midwest region and attract buyers from nearby urban areas, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Missouri and Kentucky.

Monkeez Makes a Difference Makes Second Donation CHARLESTON, SC – Monkeez Makes a Difference delivered its second donation, totaling $19,847.75, to its three charity partners: Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, Samaritan’s Purse and Best Friends Animal Society. At this year’s Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market, the company also debuted several new sock-monkey characters and toys to the philanthropic line, including 10 new knit and mini plush characters and eight new pet toys. To date, Monkeez Makes a Difference has donated a total of more than $67,000 to the three charities since the program launched in June 2012.

Urban Expositions to Launch New Chicago Gift Show

GLM Launches SURTEX Asia

ATLANTA – Urban Expositions plans to launch a new Chicago area gift show in January 2014. The Windy City Gift Show is scheduled to debut January 18-21, 2014, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL, which is convenient to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. The new semi-annual show is being launched

NEW YORK – GLM will launch SURTEX Asia, a new trade fair that will meet the growing demand in Asia for unique and proprietary surface design for product development. SURTEX Asia, which will take place August 25-27, 2013, at the Kerry Hotel in Pudong, Shanghai, will feature more than 50 top textile design studios from Great Britain, Europe, North America,

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302BizNewsid 18

South America and Japan, and is expected to attract more than 1,500 manufacturers from China, Southeast Asia and the Middle East. The show will draw manufacturers from a broad range of markets, including decorative fabrics, home textiles, wall coverings, curtains, upholstery fabrics, floor coverings, contract textiles, apparel textiles and related home products. Off the show floor, a conference program interpreted for the Asian community will introduce manufacturers to the latest surface design trends including color, style and pattern.

American Greeetings Ups its Privatization Offer CLEVELAND – American Greetings may be closer to going private following CEO Zev Weiss’ increase in the company’s purchase price by nearly two percent. The stationery company, founded by the Weiss family, first considered going private last year when its board of directors formed a special committee of independent directors to consider a privatization proposal, made by members of the Weiss family and other related parties, to return the company to a family-owned enterprise.

Baggallini Buys KIVA Designs PICKERINGTON, OH – Baggallini, the subsidiary of accessories marketer R.G. Barry Corp., reported that its parent company has finalized a strategic

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 4:28:17 PM

Circle #172

Untitled-1 1

11/27/2012 10:24:03 AM

HOME FASHION

>business NEWS ROUNDUP

Lifetime Brands Busy F & F CUMBERLAND, R.I. – Lifetime Brands has acquired Fred & Friends (F & F), manufacturers of novelty housewares and more under the Fred brand. The housewares company acquired

BODY

CANDLES

transaction to acquire the outdoor accessories company, KIVA brand, from KIVA Designs Inc. The purchase of the KIVA brand and related assets closed on Tuesday, Februay 22, for an undisclosed amount.

the business and certain assets of Easy Aces Inc., which operates under the name Fred & Friends; terms of the acquisition were not announced. Fred products include fun kitchen tools, tabletop accessories, party goods, personal accessories, desk and technology products that are distributed through independent specialty stores, as well as some select major retailers and small chains in the U.S. and Canada.

National Stationery Show Partners with Craft & Hobby Assn.

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

WHITE PLAINES, NY – The National Stationery Show (NSS) and the Craft & Hobby Association (CHA) will partner together to provide new opportunities for the social stationery and craft and creative hobby industries. To start, the two organizations will present co-located education and events during the National Stationery Show, May 19-22, in New York City. In May, CHA will introduce a “Creative Conference” concurrent with the NSS and GLM’s new Creative & Lifestyle Arts tradeshow. This educational program will offer approximately 16,000 attendees content illustrating the potential that incorporating crafting into the merchandise mix has for store owners. In addition, at the January 2014 CHA Conference & Trade Show in Anaheim, CA, the National Stationery Show and GLM will feature a stationery and lifestyle products event to complement the craft show.

HOLIDAYS

Cunningham’s Reacquires Napa Home & Garden

PLAYTHINGS

DULTUH, GA – Napa Home & Garden has been re-acquired by the company’s founders, Jerry and KC Cunningham. The Cunninghams, in partnership with C & F Enterprises, purchased the assets of the Napa business from Teters Floral Products. C&F Enterprises will provide financial and operational support to Napa, which will continue to run its home and garden business from its headquarters and maintain its national showrooms and sales force.

Circle #149

№ 20

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302BizNewsid 20

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 3:17:58 PM

Circle #173

Circle #345 Untitled-1 1

11/27/2012 10:26:51 AM

HOME FASHION

>business BRANDWISE BAROMETER

Sales Fluctuation

Percentage of change month over month, by product category

CANDLES

150 120

Not surprisingly, sales in December declined significantly as retailers focused on holiday selling and reducing inventory to make way for new merchandise ordered at the winter trade shows. The graph, created from data provided by Brandwise, is based on composite sales figures of an anonymous sample of subscribers. Some earlier figures were adjusted for accuracy.

90 AUG

60 Stationery

BODY

Gourmet Fashion

Candles Bath & Body

-30

BATH

Playthings Gifts Home Holidays

-60 SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC

-90

-17% -14% -12% -28% 16% -49% -33% -25% 30% -23%

-32% -19% -14% -21% -26% 7% -27% 0% -35% -21%

11% 14% -11% 22% -20% -26% 125% -30% 11% 32%

-13% -19% -20% -10% -18% -49% -46% -17% -32% -33%

DEC

-43% -49% -51% -60% -36% -57% -47% -61% -39% -51%

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

AUG

■ Bath & Body ■ Candles ■ Fashion ■ Gifts ■ Gourmet ■ Holidays ■ Home ■ Playthings ■ Stationery Average

2012 PERCENT CHANGE SEP OCT NOV

Circle #129

№ 22

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302Biz_Barometerid 22

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 3:58:00 PM

Circle #174

Circle #345 Untitled-1 1

11/27/2012 10:27:26 AM

HOME FASHION

>business E - COM BRIEF

B2B Online: Funneling Sales

BODY

CANDLES

E-COM BRIEF DATA is provided by Whereoware as a benchmark for online activity in the Gift and Home B2B industry. It includes comparative data from 20+ companies, which have annual online B2B sales of $500,000 and have had an active website for over a year. These briefs, to be presented on a quarterly basis, should provide a snapshot of industry patterns.

BATH

Breakaway Trend

Working the Online Funnel Q4 2012 vs. Q4 2011

The funnel consists of visits, logins and orders: (1) Drive retailers to website (visit); (2) Get them to login; (3) and place an order; (4) Order size impacts the total sales.

Website visits

STATIONERY

Mobile web traffic

+11.24

Retailer logins Order size

+129.8%

+15%

Online sales

$$$$$$$$$$$

SOURCE: WHEREOWARE

+.99% +2.59% FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.WHEREOWARE.COM

GOURMET

MARCH 16, 2013 | SATURDAY am–pm

GIFTABLES

Wholesale Cash & Carry trade shows for quality gifts, crafts, décor, furniture, gourmet foods, handmades and collectibles.

HOLIDAYS

OHIO EXPO CENTER | LAUSCHE BUILDING 717 E 17TH AVE | COLUMBUS, OH

PLAYTHINGS

One of a Kind CreationsÈ www.OﬃngersMarketplaces.com Immediate delivery and order writing exclusively for the trade. Business ID required. Photo ID required with VIP Badge. Dates coincide with Mart’s. Circle #150

№ 24

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302Biz_Whereowareid 24

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 3:58:21 PM

Reimagined. Reenergized. Reinvented. Be a part of Las Vegas Market’s aggressive three-phase strategic plan to become the premier Western US destination for Tabletop, Gift, Home Décor, Lifestyle and more. Already underway, this expansion offers selling potential and new opportunities at every level. Join the market now and reap the beneﬁts. 702.599.3058 or sales@giftandhomelv.com.

at Las Vegas Market July 29 - August 2, 2013 TODAY ’S TOTA L M A RK E T P L ACE

www.GiftandHomeLV.com

Circle #138

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 3:32:38 PM

HOME FASHION

>business NOODLIN ’: FOOD FOR THOUGHT

RANDY ELLER

CANDLES

Follow the Money, But Be Careful Jumping in on a new trend requires caution for vendors and retailers alike.

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

AFTER ATTENDING THE ATLANTA GIFT SHOW, I THINK WE NEED TO CHANGE THE NAME OF OUR INDUSTRY FROM GIFT & HOME TO APPAREL & HOME. It is amazing to see the transition in the marketplace over the past 18 months into ladies fashion accessories and now full blown apparel. This might just be the best industry in the world for money following trends and hot items. Herein lays the danger…. I’m certainly not calling a stop to all this; I don’t believe this is a bubble. This product is here to stay. However, it is maturing at such a rapid pace that you do need to pause and consider where the shakeout will begin because I guarantee, it will begin.

to carry great lines of giftables that are outside of this category. Your customers already have an “identity” in their minds of what your store means to them as a place to shop. You don’t want a customer to one day say “I remember when you were a great gift store, too.”

Vendors Take Note

If you’re a vendor and you have not yet entered the fray, you should think about whether you are too late. There are two lessons to be learned from that. First, this trend has been building for a while within the industry. If you or your product development team didn’t see it coming, you may be too late to differentiate with so much out there now. You might have to accept the hard truth that you’ve missed the big trend. IF YOU BALANCE THE OLD VERSUS THE NEW Second, if you did PROPERLY, ALL OF THIS NEW FASHION BUSImiss it, something is seNESS SHOULD BE AN ADD-ON TO YOUR EXISTriously wrong with the ING FOUNDATION OF GIFTS. way you are watching and analyzing industry trends. Do whatever it takes to ensure Retailers Take Note this never happens again. Slow money If you’re a retailer, many of you are doesn’t last long in this industry. converting shelf space in your stores What if you are a vendor who did from traditional gift lines to the fashion categories. This is exactly what you see it coming? What if you reacted and you’re benefiting greatly from it? should do, but be very careful to justify the dropping or reducing shelf space of You need to be careful as well. Don’t let your emotions get the better of you a regular gift line. Let your decision be and expand the lines too rapidly. dictated strictly “by the numbers.” The way this usually manifests A line either sells for you or it itself in a hot market is very simple. doesn’t. If it is good seller, it would You wake up one morning and you rebe pretty dangerous to drop it and alize your sku count has gotten out of replace it with a new category just becontrol. Then, you also begin to realcause it’s popular. New categories and ize that your product development in products should be cautiously tested your regular gift lines is not as aggresin your store, no matter how hot they sive as it once was, while you wonder are. If you pick a winner, there’s going why your sales are slipping there. to be a lot more product to beef it up Have you heard of cause and effect? in a market this frenzied. If you balance the old versus the new Moreover, be sure to always continue

№ 26

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302Biz_NoodlinEllerid 26

properly, all this new fashion business should be an add-on to your existing foundation of gifts. If it’s not, you’re just swapping dollars; you will not get as much sales growth as you would have if you paid strict attention to your core business while this category expanded. (Retailers: It’s the same for you!) The “fast movers” in this industry, both at the retail and vendor level, have made a ton of money. Good for them and good for the industry. We have always needed something to drive enthusiasm and traffic into our stores. The lesson here is that for those who have been slow to react and have missed it, the barriers to entry now are extreme. Market leaders are set, the product is moving, and you will need to mount an aggressive marketing and sales strategy at this point to break into the market. Be careful. Kudos to the market leaders who were sharp enough to get behind this trend and build it. It has entrepreneurs like you, the life blood of this industry, who have been observant enough to see something coming and willingly take the risk to lead the charge. You are why this industry still exists today. The chain stores don’t know what to do except follow you. There’s a message there as well. So as always, we have another major trend in our industry. You’ve either profited from it financially or you’ve learned a big lesson that will pay off for you in the future. Next time, don’t run from change, embrace it and ride the wave. Good selling! Randy Eller is a consultant, speaker and veteran of the gift and home industry as both a retailer and wholesaler. He is president of Eller Enterprises, Franklin, TN. He can be reached at reller@ellerent.com

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 5:23:38 PM

Live, Laugh, Love, Stay warm,

Wear snoozies!

All NEW for Spring and Summer 2013

skinnies by snoozies!® istretch comfort fit

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 4:21:01 PM

HOME FASHION

>business TECHNOLOGY

BY ERIC DEAN

CANDLES

New Personalization

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

IT’S NOT A STRETCH TO THINK OF JANUARY AS THE MONTH OF LISTS, WITH COUNTLESS TOP 10 LISTS BY VARIOUS PUNDITS OF ALL SORTS. TECHNOLOGY-RELATED LISTS SEEM ESPECIALLY POPULAR, AND I TRY TO READ THEM ALL. This year’s “what to do” lists all seem to contain one recurring theme—personalization. The concept of customizing the interactions that customers have with your company is hardly new. Businesses have been tailoring conversations with their customers since the dawn of time. It’s just that now technology allows us to do it more often, and at less cost and effort. We’re seeing personalization cross over into all aspects of e-commerce. Take email, for example. Instead of generic blast mailings, the most effective email messages are adjusted for content and timing and are triggered by data—both demographic and behavioral. Wholesalers can track the pages on their websites that retailers visit, when they are most likely to open their emails, when they log in and other key activity markers. By combining this data with retailers’ demographic information, such as geography or store size, wholesalers can begin to have meaningful conversations with their customers. Websites, too, are being increasingly personalized based on visitor characteristics. A big trend and obvious example is detecting the screen size, devices and operating systems being used by visitors, and serving up a website optimized for that device. Mobile sites, for example, may have buttons that are larger or more centrally placed, making it easier for a user’s fingers to navigate. The concept centers on the goal that visitors should have a great user experience, regardless of whether the site is seen

№ 28

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302Biz_TechDeanid 28

Fits.me acts as a virtual fitting room. Shoppers can “try on” clothing before purchasing.

on a 27” wide-screen monitor or a 4” smartphone. Unsurprisingly, design personalization has also ushered in content customization. One of my favorite examples of this is the idea of “virtually testing products.” Companies like Oakley and fits.me are at the forefront of this trend, bringing personalized online shopping experiences to the general public. Oakley’s View for iPad app allows customers to view an image through various tinted lenses—in effect “trying them on” to see which glasses would best suit their needs. Fits.me acts as a virtual fitting room, enabling shoppers to “try on” clothing before committing to a purchase. Just last week, we used similar technology to test out new paint schemes in the Whereoware offices, making us more comfortable with painting our walls blue and columns yellow. Some of these are ideas you can put in place right now, while others are too early or too farfetched to be

applicable to your business. However, there was a day not too long ago when many couldn’t imagine wholesalers needing a website. Industry innovators took that technology and modified it to meet the needs of their retailers. The same will be done to many of these emerging technologies. All of these technologies work to solve the same big problem—the idea that one message, size, or style does not fit all. In the long run, it’s all about being able to provide customers with the right information, at the right time, in the right place. Technology leaders are making this more and more possible. We should be watching, learning, and then seizing and adapting the best ideas and putting them in place in our businesses. Are you up to the challenge? • Eric Dean is president of Whereoware, an online and mobile strategy, design development and marketing company based in Herndon, VA. He can be reached at edean@whereoware.com

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 4:59:13 PM

NEW FROM EPIC PRODUCTS!

Chic Ceramics Quality distressed glazed ceramic pitcher, watering pail and ice bucket will add a rustic accent to any home, bar and wine cellar.

Visit Us Online!

CONTACT EPIC TODAY TO ORDER! UFM t GBY t XXX FQJDQSPEVDUTJOD DPN 3FGFSFODF $PEF (%

Circle #127

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 3:28:33 PM

HOME FASHION

>business THE RIGHT ANGLE

Taking Stock

CANDLES

Analyzing your sales and evaluating your role in your business will help keep your business on the path to continued success BY S T U T E L L E R

BODY

AS MOST OF THE WINTER GIFT AND HOME SHOWS ARE NOW BEHIND US, THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO TAKE A DEEP BREATH AND ASSESS YOUR BUSINESS. First off, of course, you want to analyze your sales to make sure your orders to the factory for product align with the orders received at the markets. You also want to make sure your orders on those fast sellers at the show are bulked up so that you can meet the needs of your retailers through the summer selling season. It is also a good time to look at what did not sell well. Dealing with those soft sellers early on will save you a lot of money later in the year. Now is also a good time to evaluate your role in your business. Our industry is made up of hard-working, creative entrepreneurs who quickly realize that as a business grows, it becomes harder to juggle all the responsibilities. Yet, we all understand that if we focus on what we love to do and

BATH STATIONERY GOURMET GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS PLAYTHINGS

STU TELLER

warehouse, watching over customer service, keeping up with evolving technology, etc. Imagine if you could go back to what you loved doing when you started! If you were able to once again devote your energies on driving your company creatively, how much more could it grow? Would your business be even more successful if you did more of what you were great at in the first place? Aligning your business to grow successfully is just as important as purchasing or producing the proper inventory for your retailer.

Things to Consider

Look deeply at your company. Do you have too many responsibilities that stop you from spending the right amount of time being your company’s creative driving force? If the answer is “yes,” there are solutions. Take a hard look at the list of all the things you do. Make decisions about redistributing some responsibilities to your current staff. You might hire IF YOU WERE ABLE TO ONCE AGAIN DEVOTE interns to help carry YOUR ENERGIES ON DRIVING YOUR COMPANY some of the load. They CREATIVELY BY DOING WHAT YOU LOVE TO DO, are cost-effective and HOW MUCH MORE COULD IT GROW? may make great future employees. The key to what we are good at, we are bound to hiring an intern is to clearly define be more successful. their responsibilities ahead of time. Over the years, I have worked with Have you considered outsourcing many companies whose owners love your certain functions? Outsourcing the industry but hate what they are your warehouse and shipping can be doing. When their companies were a very cost-efficient model as you save small, they were the creative forces on warehouse leasing, staffing, equipdriving their business; they spent ment, insurance and technology. the majority of their time dreaming, These companies can provide you designing product and marketing. with the opportunity to align your Now they may only spend 10 percent company with a team that is experts of their time doing what they love— at what they do. being that creative force—while the An alternative to consider is an other 90 percent of the time is spent outsource fulfillment company that managing the business: running the provides, in addition to fulfillment,

№ 30

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302Biz_Tellerid 30

To Do Lis

Analyze

• Do facto ry orders align with show orde rs • What did not sell w ell at market

Evaluate

• Are you still doing what you love • List wha t you do • Decide o n tasks to delegate to • Can som others e functions be outsou rced

dedicated customer service and credit and collection functions. These are true third party logistics companies that can alleviate many of your logistics headaches and free up valuable time and resources. If you are not very creative, you can look for outsourced artists to drive the design and feel of your line. This analysis process is important, but it can be challenging because there is no complete 100 percent solution that will meet every business’ needs. Your company’s goals are specific to your vision, so the solutions need to be customized and unique. At the end of the day, you are an entrepreneur. When you create the opportunity to lead by spending the majority of your time doing what you love to do, you open the door to a brighter future for you and for your company. • Stu Teller, a veteran of the gift and home industry, is a managing partner of Right Angle Strategies, a business consulting firm providing strategic insights and resources to new and emerging vendors to help them grow and succeed, as well to established vendors to keep their businesses going in the right direction. He may be reached at stu@rightanglestrategies.com

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 3:58:51 PM

eCommerce is Transforming Shoppers want it all: They want to research products on your website, buy online, and they want to pick up in store. If they want the order shipped, it’s got to be in their hands fast and as cheaply as possible. Or maybe the sale depends on whether they can pick up their orders from a nearby store location, because they want it now or it is too bulky to ship. And they expect to make returns in a nearby store even if they bought online. Are you giving shoppers what they want? You can with Shopatron. SHOPATRON MANUFACTURER

SHOPATRON RETAILER

More than 1,000 brands use Shopatron’s solutions to expand online and offline sales, improve relationships with their retailers, and to deliver the best possible customer experience. Learn more at ecommerce. shopatron.com/toy-brands.

Leading retailers use Shopatron’s order management solutions to better manage inventory across online and offline channels, provide broader delivery options to online shoppers, and drive traffic into local stores. Learn more at ecommerce.shopatron.com/toy-retailers.

VISIT US ON THE WEB AT WWW.SHOPATRON.COM Circle #157

Untitled-5 1

1/21/2013 11:20:13 AM

HOME FASHION

>business PRODUCT SAFETY AND TESTING

Safety Nets

GOURMET

Lab Testing of children's products involves extensive evaluations.

GIFTABLES

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

How manufacturer compliance, education and increased port control can help make more consumer products in the United States safe again. B Y T I NA B E N I T E Z - E V E S

ON THANKSGIVING DAY, 2005, 1-YEAR-OLD KENNY SWEET OF SEATTLE DIED AFTER INGESTING TWO CYLINDER-SHAPED MAGNETIC PIECES FROM HIS 10-YEAR-OLD BROTHER’S MAGNETIX PLAY SET.

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

In the two years since Sweet’s death, nearly 30 more children suffered serious intestinal injuries after swallowing the magnetic parts manufactured by Mega Brands, and more than four million sets were later recalled by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The tragedy was an eyeopener for manufacturers, parents and those responsible for enforcing stricter toy safety guidelines for the production of children’s products. The Magnetix toys were made in China. Today, most toys and other consumer products, everything from

№ 32

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302Biz_ProdSafetyfeaid 32

apparel, electronics, various housewares and other items, sold in the U.S. are manufactured in China. Lead and magnets, in addition to other unsafe chemicals, small parts and other potentially hazardous materials coming into the United States—predominantly those manufactured in China—are some of the top concerns when it comes to product safety. Everything from apparel and accessories, automobile parts, window panes, cigarette lighters and household items, as well as ingredients used in food and personal care items (including cosmetics) are just a handful of categories on government watch. In an effort to ensure product safety, the CPSC has worked on stepping up efforts to safeguard consumers against hazardous products, from

the time all are in Chinese factories to when these items arrive at U.S. ports and before hitting store shelves. However, the level of manufacturer compliance with safety standards, a lack of CPSC staff at ports and product saftey education can determine the number of unsafe products that make it in and out of the country. “Where we are now, as we move into 2013, is having this comprehensive product safety net, which has been strengthened and put in place for the future,” says Scott Wolfson, spokesman, CPSC. “It’s taken hold, and now what we can do at the CPSC is focus on enforcement, focus on continued education with the industry and continuing to build on consumer confidence, which has turned around in the last four years.” In the case of Magnetix, the CPSC took one year to issue the first recall of the play sets. Today, the agency is approaching product safety and recalls more proactively, according to Wolfson. “What happened to this agency in 2007-2008 was an effect of us being reactive, in a defensive posture,” says Wolfson. “That’s not good for children. That’s not good for business, because in the end, consumer confidence was severely hurt. In the end, we want to be proactive and what that means is lowering the amount of harmful products ever reaching the hands of a child.”

The End of Buckyballs…and Magnetic ‘Toys’? By 2009, the CPSC put more safety, specifically for children’s products, into law. Now mandatory was the ASTM International F9263 Standard Consumer Safety Specification, which included specific toy safety guidelines and test methods to prevent injuries from choking, sharp edges and other

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 3:14:51 PM

awards

CALL FOR ENTRIES!

ENTER THE 62ND ANNUAL RETAILER EXCELLENCE AWARDS From Gifts and Decorative Accessories The REA Awards are the oldest and most prestigious honors in the gift industry, recognizing retail and individual achievement. Join us and the honorees for the Gala Awards Dinner during the summer New York International Gift Fair: Sunday, August 18th at the Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers in New York City Entry Deadline: April 26, 2013. Go to www.GiftsandDec.com, click on the REA button for entry forms or email Caroline Kennedy, ckennedy@giftsanddec.com to request forms.

Categories include: • Gift Store Design/Redesign • Marketing Achievement • Visual Merchandising/Display

• Store Events Plus: • 2013 REP OF THE YEAR • 2013 INDUSTRY RISING STAR!

Sponsored by NYIGF, the REAs recognize retailers for excellence in four general categories – including store design, visual merchandising, marketing and store events – with finalists and winners honored during the summer 2013 NYIGF.

IT’S EASY, ENTER YOUR OWN STORE OR YOUR CUSTOMER NOW

MORE ON TREND

HOLIDAYS

d Papillion pillow collection. 70% cotton, 30% linen.

CIRCLE #864

CIRCLE #861

PLAYTHINGS

c The Lolas are part of the Jardin d’impression collection. The line includes bedding and bath accessories. $250-$650. Yves Delorme. 434.979.3911. www.yvesdelorme.com

18”x18”. $40 each. Saro. 818.846.3314. www.saro.com ALL PRICES RETAIL

giftsanddec.com

gda1302HOgardenid 49

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 49

1/23/2013 2:47:43 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

BODY

VHC BRANDS COLONIAL CANDLE

STATIONERY

BATH

Rib Weave Tabletop Casual everyday rib weave tabletop is 100% cotton, available in an expanded offering of colors for 2013. Shown in Cambrie Lane placemat and runner.

Petal Oval Votive/Tealight Holder

| 888-334-3099 @ www.vhcbrands.com # circle #400

| 866-445-9993 @ www.colonialcandle.com/wholesale # circle #401

Enjoy this beautiful accent piece created exclusively for Colonial Candle and designed to fit our glass oval votives and tealights.

THE COUNTRY HOUSE COLLECTION

GOURMET

Lamp Shades Customers love our new burlap shades that are available in four sizes.

GIFTABLES

| 800-492-1784 @ www.thecountryhousecollection.com # circle #402

PRIMITIVES BY KATHY

HOLIDAYS

Eggs no longer have to reside in those dreadful styrofoam cartons anymore. Dress up those eggs. We’ve crafted the perfect stoneware vessel for your precious refrigerator cargo. Suggested price – $27.60.

PLAYTHINGS

Dress Up Your Eggs

| 866-295-2849 @ www.primitivesbykathy.com # circle #403

№ 50

Untitled-1 1

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

SPLIT P

Candlesticks In Living Color! Split P has expanded their wood enameled candlesticks to include black and white for 2013. The candlesticks are sold separately but look chic displayed as a group in five colors and three styles in heights ranging from 15", 18", and 24".

| 800-326-3382 @ www.split-p.net # circle #404

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 3:00:18 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

HOME

product profile

FASHION CANDLES

PRIMITIVES BY KATHY

Stoneware Server Finally, a place for this and that. Stoneware pottery server for those extras that make a meal or a party even better. Suggested price – $46.00.

BATH

| 866-295-2849 @ www.primitivesbykathy.com # circle #405

& BODY

SPLIT P

Mix and Match Medallion and Geo

COLONIAL CANDLE

STATIONERY

Shamrock Unscented 3x6 Pillar

Spice colors are gaining momentum at Split P with the introduction of Kaleidoscope Spice and Orange Geo. These collections have enough personality to stand alone but can certainly work as a duet in one environment. Both collections offer table top and home décor accessories.

Introducing our new fragrance-free pillars. Available in 16 on-trend colors and two sizes to suit all your home décor needs.

| 866-445-9993 @ www.colonialcandle.com/wholesale # circle #408

GOURMET

| 800-326-3382 @ www.split-p.net # circle #406

GIFTABLES

IHF HOME DÉCOR

IHF Linen Fixture

ROMAN

Flower Yard Art Roman presents a fresh, extensive new line of salvaged letters and marque signs. Signs are placed on stakes and feature indoor/outdoor C7 lights.

PLAYTHINGS

| 800-PICK-IHF @ www.ihfhomedecor.com # circle #407

HOLIDAYS

This fixture is a versatile, efficient way to merchandise all of your IHF window treatments, table top and accessory items. Also available in black. Call for details.

| 800-SAY-ROMAN @ www.roman.com # circle #409

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-1 1

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 51

1/22/2013 3:00:46 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

TABLECRAFT

STATIONERY

BATH

C & F ENTERPRISES

Distressed Serving Tray

Galvinized Collection

Distressed serving tray with botanic illustrations, hovering butterflies and insects. SRP $22.99. Also available in seashell and fish themes.

Choose from our selection of round or oval dinner platters, beverage tubs or round pails. Item GP129.

| 888-889-9868 @ www.cnfei.com # circle #410

| 800-835-1195 @ www.tablecraft.com # circle #411

SPLIT P

Jardin…A French Garden

GOURMET

A gentle floral in lemon, dijon and gray complemented by a new classic chevron print brings Jardin to life from Split P. A core table top textile offering also includes a valance, pillow and rug for a total home solution.

GIFTABLES

| 800-326-3382 @ www.split-p.net # circle #412

HOLIDAYS

THE COUNTRY HOUSE COLLECTION

Burlap Runners We’ve added this new Burlap Rosette Runner to our line for 2013. Customers are sure to love it!

PLAYTHINGS

| 800-492-1784 @ www.thecountryhousecollection.com # circle #413

№ 52

Untitled-1 1

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

COLLINS PAINTING & DESIGN

RW-8427 Ocean Breeze Box Sign From Collins 2013 Surf Shack Collection, 6" W x 9" T x 1½" D. Suggested retail $16.95.

| 877-490-5909 @ www.collinspainting.com # circle #414

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 3:01:05 PM

HOME

product profile

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

PRIMITIVES BY KATHY

FASHION

Berry Nice! Beautifully styled stoneware containers modeled after cardboard market boxes. Quart and pint sizes. Suggested retail – $28.75.

CANDLES

| 866-295-2849 @ www.primitivesbykathy.com # circle #415

BATH

SPLIT P

Cobalt Blue Hammered Glass Jars

VHC BRANDS

BODY

Great for storage or as a decorative accent, Split P’s Cobalt Blue Glass Jars in 8" and 12" heights are new for 2013. The specialty hammered glass and burnished aluminum lids complement kitchen and bath decors.

Kaleidoscope Quilted Throw and Pillow

| 800-326-3382 @ www.split-p.net # circle #416

STATIONERY

Warm up to spring with our new traditionally-pieced but thoroughly up-to-date Kaleidoscope collection. Available in bedding and tabletop.

| 888-334-3099 @ www.vhcbrands.com # circle #417

GOURMET GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS

SPLIT P ARTHUR COURT DESIGNS

For Rabbit Lovers

Split P introduces Sapphire Paisley table top textiles featuring original hand-drawn art in classic blue and white. Textile accessories include an apron, valance and pillow. Mix and match Sapphire Paisley with Essentials Lapis solids and Orange Jewel giftware as shown.

| 800-446-7806 @ www.arthurcourt.com # circle #418

| 800-326-3382 @ www.split-p.net # circle #419

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

PLAYTHINGS

Arthur Court introduces a re-vamped collection for rabbit lovers and collectors alike. Long-eared hares hop through grassy fields reminding us of Spring’s verdant splendor.

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-1 1

Classic Paisley in Blue and White

№53

1/22/2013 3:01:23 PM

Every story has a bead™

Why be a

Trollbeads retailer?

Original bead-on-bracelet company Ǧ Specializing in handcrafted Italian glass beads Ǧ German foxtail chains accommodate all beads 50/50 co-op advertising plan Ǧ Attractive profit margin based upon manufacturers’ advertised pricing Ǧ 98% in stock at all times; fast order processing and shipping Ǧ Danish-trained glass artist on staff to conduct in-store events Ǧ Reasonable and flexible opening order packages Ǧ Branded fixtures with attractive acquisition programs Call now for details – 609 936 3931 | sales@trollbeads-unitedstates.com www.trollbeadsuniverse.com Circle #168

Untitled-3 1

Facebook.com/TrollbeadsUS Ǧ Twitter.com/TrollTweetsUS

1/17/2013 4:16:36 PM

HOME

>fashion

FASHION CANDLES BATH

Betty Carré’s modern square ring is shown here in emerald calcite, but is also available in red onyx, smoke topaz, white agate, ruby quartz and more.

& BODY STATIONERY GOURMET

This cocktail ring is featured in Pantone’s color of the year: Emerald.

GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS

Gorgeous in Green Pantone’s color of the year is Emerald. Make a fashionable trend statement with a modern cocktail ring.

PLAYTHINGS

Square ring is 18-kt. gold plated and features an emerald calcite stone. $145. Betty Carré. 305.690.5995. www.bettycarre.com CIRCLE #870

giftsanddec.com

gda1302FAopenerid 55

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 55

1/23/2013 11:54:51 AM

HOME BATH

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>fashion

Impressionist scarves are made from a light Georgette fabric. $11.99. Mountain Mamas. 877.649.3160. www.mountainmamas.net

STATIONERY

CIRCLE #892

Lovin’ Summer

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

This summer make sure you’re carrying the industry’s hottest category: fashion. B Y B E S S I E N E S T OR A S

Petals shift dress is available in white, black, coral, jade mint and navy. Three sizes. $73.50. Mud Pie. 800.998.1633. www.mud-pie.com CIRCLE #896

№ 56

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302FAsummerfeaid 56

IT’S ALMOST SUMMER. AND YOU KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS: TIME TO REFRESH YOUR WARDROBE—AND YOUR MERCHANDISE DISPLAYS. If there’s one thing women will always spend money on, it’s on fashion. This summer season is full of golden opportunities for gift retailers, because summer fashions are fun, flirty and plentiful from gift vendors. Fashion is one of the biggest categories in the gift industry right now. It seems that just about everyone is offering a fashion line, whether it’s bags, jewelry, footwear, clothing, or all of the above. While growth in the fashion category began with bags, scarves and fashion jewelry, it has grown to include shoes, hats and now, apparel, making the gift store a onestop shop for all things unique both for the home and for the wardrobe.

Not Just for Holiday When it comes to summer looks, most of what was being offered was items to be worn on vacation. Not anymore. Much of what is out there in the gift market now can be worn every day. That includes sized clothing, which changes the focus of giftable fashions. “Clothing is a natural extension to the line. We tested these items in our retail stores last spring and it was a huge success,” said Jennifer Hogan of Toss Designs. The company got its start in bags, then added jewelry, and this season introduced a selection of dresses, tops, maxi and pencil skirts, as well as silk ponchos and other pieces. But if you’re worried about the sizing, don’t. Most of these pieces come in simple sizes—small, medium and large—so it’s easy, and should not require a dressing room And according to Hogan, her retailers are thrilled

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 4:43:53 PM

Circle #185

Untitled-1 1

1/22/2013 3:49:46 PM

HOME CANDLES

FASHION

>fashion

Sugarland 3” wedge adorned with rhinestones. Also available in white. $58. Nomad. 800.979.2354. www.nomadfootwear.com

BODY

CIRCLE #891

Scarves, a must-have accessory even in warmer weather, should certainly be a part of your fashion selection, as should hats, which aren’t just for providing shade from the sun’s harmful rays. Like scarves, hats are the finishing touch to an outfit. It’s that something that you didn’t know was missing until you put it on. For added interest in your merchandise mix, besides jewelry and watches, consider hair accessories, such as Vera Bradley’s floral hair ties, which are perfect for ponytails on a hot and humid day. These summer staples will have your shoppers more glam come May. •

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

with the collection. “Many ordered back inventory and will be carrying this as their core clothing,” she said. Many trendy tunics and caftans on the market are beach staples, but thrown over leggings and paired with elegant jewelry, either can easily be worn out for cocktails. Mud Pie, also venturing deeper in to the clothing category, offers a selection of such dresses and caftans that aren’t just for vacation, but for every day. For example, the company’s Petals shift dress is perfect for an afternoon lunch, a night out, and in white, perhaps as a bridesmaid’s dress.

№ 58

Maxi dress part of the Marina collection. Small, medium and large. $112. Toss Designs. 415.721.1037. www.tossdesigns.com

Beth dress in Notes Scarlet is made of 100% cotton voile. Features drawstrings and a three button opening at the top. Small, medium and large. $66. See Designs. 203.972.3685. www.seedesignshop.com

CIRCLE #887

CIRCLE #890

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302FAsummerfeaid 58

Adriana trilby hat in navy. Also available in white. $23. Shiraleah. 866.503.9765. www.shiraleah.com CIRCLE #897

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 4:20:15 PM

write your own way

and follow it to the letter (yours, of course)

INTRODUCING FOUR (SOON TO BE) BELOVED INSIGNIAS Eleven years and counting and still so true: Wa x i n g Po e t i c w a n t s y o u t o c e l e b r a t e , s c r i p t , a n d s h a r e y o u r Spirit Story Song Sentiment and General Splendor With all the world (weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll help) and with all our hearts united.

sales@waxingpoetic.com

waxingpoetic.com Circle #175

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 4:15:53 PM

Jackie tunic in a hot pink ikat print. $45. Top It Off. 617.323.2605. www.topitoffwholesale.com

Liz ballet flats in metallic and seersucker, both accented with a grosgrain flower. $64.95 each. Lindsay Phillips. 973.285.0041. www.lindsay-phillips.com

CIRCLE #894

CIRCLE #889

HOME PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>fashion

Obi double wrap bracelet is made from artisan hand-woven “Obi” cord, traditionally crated by Japanese artists outside of Kyoto. $110. Tokyo Bay. 415.808.4880. www.tokyobayinc.com

Colorful hair elastics presented on a handbag-shaped card. $8. Vera Bradley. 888.855.8372. www.verabradley.com

CIRCLE #895

CIRCLE #893 ALL PRICES RETAIL

№ 60

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302FAsummerfeaid 60

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 4:20:30 PM

Circle #132

Untitled-1 1

1/22/2013 3:54:57 PM

YOU’VE GOT TO BE IN THE KNOW...OR YOU’LL BE OUT OF THE LOOP! • PRODUCT WIRE • GIFTS & DEC DIRECT • GIFTS & DEC DIRECT FROM MARKET • PLAYTHINGS EXTRA

Start Y Your O Own

Social Community Don’t get left behind. As the Gift Industry Leader we can help your company with a custom social media strategy and turn-key program. New to social networking? Lacking time and resources? We’ve got you covered!

For more information, please contact .ANCY 7OLKOW, 0UBLISHER . . | NWOLKOW@GIFTSANDDEC.com

Circle #180

January 2013 Frac pages.indd 1

1/21/2013 3:12:01 PM

HOME

>fashion

FASHION

N E I MAD SA U

CANDLES

b ANCHORED

BATH

Made in the USA Machine Washable Stain + Water Resistant

Original Patterns

BODY STATIONERY

a Sybal necklace. 20” with a 2½” extender. $40. Uptown Girls. 310.458.1810. www.facebook.com/uptowngirls CIRCLE #886

ATouch of Gold

GOURMET

Emerald, this season’s hot color, gets even more luxurious when accented with gold.

GIFTABLES

b Double Happiness enamel cuff. $32. Toss Designs. 415.721.1037. www.tossdesigns.com CIRCLE #887

HOLIDAYS PLAYTHINGS

c Reynolds earrings. $35. Towne & Reese. 980.254.4222. www. towneandreese.com CIRCLE #888 ALL PRICES RETAIL

w w w.ci n dab.co m NOW OFFERING EXCLUSIVE PROTECTED TERRITORIES TO FINE RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS! Circle #120 giftsanddec.com

gda1302FAgreenid 63

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 63

1/22/2013 4:21:06 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

SUSAN SHAW JEWELRY TROLLBEADS UNIVERSE

STATIONERY

BATH

Handcast 24kt Gold Jewelry 24 kt. handcast gold and sterling silver-plated lead-free metals combined with semi-precious stones to create beautiful jewelry designs. All handcrafted in the USA.

Big Butterfly

| 800-880-7429 @ www.susanshaw.com # circle #420

| 609-936-3931 @ www.trollbeadsuniverse.com # circle #421

The Butterfly – so light and so elegant. Flying fancy free, it charms us with its beautiful appearance.

BELLA TAYLOR BY VHC

GOURMET

Bali Bright Blakely Back by popular demand, everyone loves Blakely’s pockets, price and style. Shown in Bali Bright. SRP $35.95.

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

| 888-334-3099 @ www.mybellataylor.com # circle #422

GRANDMOTHER’S BUTTONS

Layers of Bracelets on Display CALYPSO STUDIOS, INC.

Clay & Metal Cross Icon Bracelet PLAYTHINGS

A colorful cross icon is the focal point of this double strand wrap bracelet. Each is hand-crafted using glass beads and includes our signature metal toggle clasp. $12.99 retail.

| 866-897-9648 @ www.calypsostudiosinc.com # circle #423

№ 64

Untitled-1 1

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

Buy these eight new antique button and vintage glass bracelets, and Grandmother’s Buttons will include this handmade spool counter display. Suggested retail for bracelets begins at $38.

| 800-580-6941 @ www.grandmothersbuttons.com # circle #424

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 10:33:25 AM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

HOME

product profile

FASHION

MADPAX

Meet BLOK CANDLES

Part puzzle, part robot and ready for the next adventure. Available in 8 funtastic colors. Fullpacks for 5 and up. Retail $60.

FIONA ACCESSORIES

& BODY

Fiona’s Painted Zodiac Bracelet & Crystallized with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS®

BATH

| 602-795-8225 @ www.madpax.com # circle #426

STATIONERY

Beautiful zodiac sign painted on 1300ºc burned & glazed porcelain beads with grey & clear crystals all made with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS®. Makes perfect birthday gift. Approx. 8" stretch for adult’s wrist. Collections include 12 Zodiac Signs. Designed with box packed in USA. MSRP $24.95

| 909-923-9881 @ www.fionaaccessories.com # circle #425

GOURMET

CINDA B

Vertical Cosmetic This clever cosmetic stands upright on your counter. Perfect for full-size shampoos and lotions. 9.75"W x 3"D x 11.5"H. $65.00.

GIFTABLES

| 877-692-4632 @ www.cindab.com # circle 427

HOLIDAYS

ENESCO

WAXING POETIC

Precious Silhouette Charm

| 877-724-5434 @ www.waxingpoetic.com # circle #428

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-1 1

This collection features witty sentiments in bold newsprint. New to this statement are faux patent leather totes which include an inner lining and a magnetic closure. 12.5"H x 20"L. Tote SRP $18.00 Collection SRP $10.00 to $30.00.

PLAYTHINGS

Tiny shadow, follow close, stay near and always dear to my heart. Created in sterling silver, these charms are reminders of your children and dearest pets.

Really Great News! by Lorrie Veasey

| 800-4ENESCO @ www.enesco.com/business # circle #429

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 65

1/22/2013 10:33:38 AM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

TROLLBEADS UNIVERSE

Rose Pop ID Please

House

No more hassle to show your ID; clasps easily to another bag. Shown in Rose Pop. SRP $918.95.

Home is where your heart is. Home is where you get shelter and truly can relax.

| 888-334-3099 @ www.mybellataylor.com # circle #430

| 609-936-3931 @ www.trollbeadsuniverse.com # circle #431

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

BELLA TAYLOR BY VHC

FIONA ACCESSORIES

Fiona’s “Easter Bunny” Children’s Stretch Bracelet

GIFTABLES

Every kid should wear this so cute painted Easter bunny bracelet while collecting eggs on Easter. Approx. 5.5" stretch & kids safe with non-toxic paint & glass beads. Kids’ collections also include matching earrings. MSRP $5.95.

HOLIDAYS

Lucky Chances Charm

Florence Necklace

PLAYTHINGS

| 909-923-9881 @ www.fionaaccessories.com # circle #432

You can leave it up to chance, or choose to wear them all. One can never have enough luck on their side. Make good luck happen everyday.

Crafted using multiple hand-strung strands of polished shell and metal accents, the new 16" long necklace is available in 6 vibrant colors. $14.99 retail.

| 877-724-5434 @ www.waxingpoetic.com # circle #433

WAXING POETIC

№ 66

Untitled-1 1

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

CALYPSO STUDIOS, INC.

| 866-897-9648 @ www.calypsostudiosinc.com # circle #434

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 10:33:52 AM

HOME

product profile

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

FASHION

MONA B. BY IHF HOME DÉCOR

CANDLES

Mona B. Fixture Mona B. has many bold, beautiful patterns to choose from. This fixture is a great way to feature your Mona B. collection. Call for details.

Boho Chic

BATH

| 800-PICK-IHF @ www.ihfhomedecor.com # circle #435

ENESCO

This trendy, all-glass beaded charm bracelet comes in assorted colors including lime, berry, turquoise and more. Each bracelet has either a heart with a peace sign or a flower charm. Wear one or wear them all! 7.5" L. SRP $10.00

BODY STATIONERY

| 800-4ENESCO @ www.enesco.com/business # circle #436

BELLA TAYLOR BY VHC

Baja Blue Retriever

GOURMET

Stay active with hands-free practicality and quick item retrievals. Shown in Baja Blue. SRP $33.95.

| 888-334-3099 @ www.mybellataylor.com # circle #438

GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS

HOWARD’S JEWELRY WAXING POETIC

Textured Scarf Accent Pendant

Inspired by medieval crowns, this beautiful insignia is cast in sterling silver with a tiny jewel set atop for a touch of sparkle. Perfect for the royals in your story.

Scarves or necklaces are fun and functional options to enhance any scarf accent for unlimited fashion statements.

| 877-724-5434 @ www.waxingpoetic.com # circle #437

| 800-777-5658 @ www.howardsjewelry.com # circle #439

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-1 1

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

PLAYTHINGS

Regal Insignia Charm

№ 67

1/22/2013 10:34:07 AM

New Spring Illuminations Our decorative ceramic Illumination Fragrance Warmers are designed to safely warm scented wax melts releasing lasting fragrance throughout the home. The light from the halogen bulb casts a soft glow adding the perfect touch of warmth and light to any room. Check out our website for more new Spring styles.

Join us on Facebook!

www.facebook.com/ candlewarmersetc

Join us on Twitter!

www.twitter.com/ candlewarmeretc

w w w.ca ndl e wa rmers.com Circle #119

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 3:31:18 PM

HOME

>candles

FASHION CANDLES BATH & BODY GOURMET

The chain-link fence inspired material covers each glass and features a custom designed keepsake lock.

STATIONERY

Fragrances include the fruity Hard to Get, more sensuous Hold Me Tight and some spicier notes with Hot to Handle.

GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS

Love Locked This fragrance collection is inspired by the tradition of lovers locking a padlock to a chain or gate and throwing away the key.

PLAYTHINGS

Lock Your Love collection features a reed diffuser, candle and perfume, each featuring the chain link design on vessels. $24-$38. Votivo. 877.786.8486. www.votivo.com CIRCLE #810

giftsanddec.com

gda1302CNopenerid 69

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

â&#x201E;&#x2013; 69

1/22/2013 4:21:34 PM

HOME FASHION

>candles

Into the Wood

BODY

CIRCLE #816

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

b Sierra is part of the Botanika collection. A blend of pineapple, jasmine and musk. 3 oz. $42. Dayna Decker. 714.968.5400. www.daynadecker.com

CANDLES

There’s a big difference between cotton and wooden wicks. Wood wicks require no clipping, have no ashy buildup, don’t emit smoke during burning (or once blown out) and produce a soft crackling fire sound when lit.

c Spa De Terre has notes of lavender, chamomile and sandalwood. 60 hours. 9 oz. $25. Evoluxe. evocandles@gmail.com. www.evoluxecandles.com

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

CIRCLE #817

PLAYTHINGS

a Garden collection features wooden wicks and herb- and floral-blend scents. Available as diffuser and candles. $18-$36. Archipelago Botanicals. 800.399.4994. www.archipelagobotanicals.com CIRCLE #815

d Pure Radiance emits a subtle, fresh scent. Glass holders sold separately. $10.99-$27.99. Yankee Candle. 800.792.6180. www.yankeecandle.com CIRCLE #818 ALL PRICES RETAIL

№ 70

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302CNwoodwickid 70

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 4:22:06 PM

KRINGLE CANDLE

ÂŽ

First in White. See the Light! See whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new for 2013!

Our new fragrances for 2013 have arrived just in time for Spring and Summer! Contact your regional rep group to learn more or to place an order. And of course, Kringle Candles are proudly and exclusively made in little Bernardston, Massachusetts, USA! #&&5 /,& 5;5 --) # . Atlanta Gift Mart Atlanta, GA 800-343-3909 AL, FL, GA, MS, NC, SC, TN

The Dolan Group The Columbus Marketplace 800-486-7555 OH, WV, KY, Western PA

#&&# '5 )), 5 --) # . -I ,#(!& 5 ( & 5 )'* (3 Javits Center, NY 315-255-2879 NY, NJ

. ,-)(5 --) # . -65 ( 8 The Merchandise Mart Chicago, IL 888-511-7400 IL, IN, MI

1 , 5 --) # . -65 ( 8 Westford, MA 800-255-1619 CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT

)"(-)(5 . ,-5 ,% .#(! Minneapolis, MN 800-786-7911 MN, SD, ND, WI, KS, NE, IA, MO

, 5 #&& ,5 ;5 --) # . Oaks, PA 800-877-9810 PA, MD, DE, VA

."35;5 )865 ( 85 Dallas Trade Mart Dallas, TX 800-763-8690 TX, OK, LA, AR

K R IN G L E C A N D L E C OM PA N Y ÂŽ ,)/ &35' 5#(5 ,( , -.)(65 65 555R555nnn7okm7jljk55R551118%,#(!& ( & 8 )'555R555 )#(5." 5 #- /--#)(5)(5 ))% Circle #141

Untitled-9 1

11/26/2012 5:24:26 PM

HOME BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>candles

BATH

a Chocolate Truffle doubles as a body moisturizer and is made of 100% all-natural soy oil. $6.49-$26. The SOI Co. 209.544.0300. www.thesoico.com

STATIONERY

CIRCLE #811

Softer Scents

GOURMET

Candles that double as a skin moisturizer or massage oil can be poured right from the vessel on to skin and give customers a litte something extra with purchase.

GIFTABLES

b Massage Candle has almond, coconut and evening primrose oils, neroli and ylang-ylang. 4 oz., $16; 8 oz. ,$28. Power of a Flower. 612.642.1325. www.powerofaflower.com CIRCLE #812

MORE ON TREND

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

c Scandle massage oil candles come in a reusable ceramic vessel for easy pouring. 10 oz. $34.95. Scandle. 866.531.9916. www.abodycandle.com

d Tobacco Road is a blend of tobacco leaves and bergamot with some vanilla and spice. 80 hours. 13½ oz. $34. Soy Delicious. 877.769.6426. www.soydelicious.com

CIRCLE #813

CIRCLE #814 ALL PRICES RETAIL

№ 72

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302CNmoistureid 72

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 4:22:33 PM

Circle #130

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 3:47:56 PM

Circle #160

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 4:13:07 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

HOME

product profile

FASHION CANDLES BATH

VIRGINIA CANDLE COMPANY

Wax Melts

WoodWick® Geometric Featuring the hot new geometric trend in home decor and fashion, this new collection is available in 6 sophisticated fragrances. Sweet Rhubarb is a fusion of tart rhubarb and currant berries.

| 800-262-2305 @ www.jamieclair.com # circle #440

| 800-827-2231 @ www.virginiacandle.com # circle #441

STATIONERY

These highly scented wax melts are easy to use and bring fresh and inviting scents into your home.

BODY

™

JAMIE CLAIR

GOURMET

KRINGLE CANDLE COMPANY

Citrus and Sage Medium Jar Tangy, bright citrus accords partner with green herbal notes to produce a relaxing yet uplifting union.

Campfire Treat™

| 800-792-6180 @ www.wholesale.yankeecandle.com # circle #442

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-5 1

KRINGLE CANDLE COMPANY

Peony Medium Jar Notoriously difficult to replicate, we’ve found the delightful sweet and lively essence of these lavish pink blossoms.

PLAYTHINGS

Large Classic Jar – New for Summer. The joys of camp – mesmerized by the fire, singing and laughing, while toasting marshmallows to rich, gooey perfection.

HOLIDAYS

YANKEE CANDLE®

GIFTABLES

| 888-957-4645 @ www.kringlecandle.com # circle #443

| 888-957-4645 @ www.kringlecandle.com # circle #444

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 75

1/21/2013 12:52:28 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

MIXTURE USA

BATH

CANDLE WARMERS ETC.

NEW! Plug-in Fragrance Warmer™ Ideal for small rooms and small spaces, each style brings a relaxing mood to any room.

STATIONERY

This adorable, reusable container is available in Robin Egg Blue & Alabaster White.

| 913-944-2441 @ www.mixtureusa.com # circle #446

| 800-262-2305 @ www.candlewarmers.com # circle #445

GOURMET

6 oz. Bird Candle Canister

KRINGLE CANDLE COMPANY

Sunflower Sunrise Medium Jar

GIFTABLES

A sweet floral scent as jubilant as the happy blooms smiling down from their towering stems. A classic summertime remembrance.

HOLIDAYS

| 888-957-4645 @ www.kringlecandle.com # circle #447

KRINGLE CANDLE COMPANY

Royal Cherries Medium Jar

PLAYTHINGS

Filled with the special fragrant lusciousness of dark red tart-sweet cherries at their seasonal peak.

| 888-957-4645 @ www.kringlecandle.com # circle #448

№ 76

Untitled-5 1

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

VIRGINIA CANDLE COMPANY

WoodWick Jar Candles in Paradise Blue Fragrance Unwind with the soft crackle of a wooden wick and the scents of Paradise Blue fragrance with tranquil waters and calm seas with touches of jasmine musk.

| 800-827-2231 @ www.virginiacandle.com # circle #449

giftsanddec.com

1/21/2013 12:52:47 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

HOME

product profile

FASHION CANDLES

CANDLE WARMERS ETC.

Beach Boardwalk is a new scent in the WoodWick Escape® line. Its scent will transport you to a walk at the beach with the scents of salt water breezes, white sand, and vanilla waffle cones baked fresh in a seaside shop.

Designed to warm scented wax melts and oils creating the glow and ambiance of a burning candle, releasing the candle’s fragrance.

BODY

New! Illumination Fragrance Warmer™

WoodWick Escape®

| 800-262-2305 @ www.candlewarmers.com # circle #451

STATIONERY

| 800-827-2231 @ www.virginiacandle.com # circle #450

BATH

VIRGINIA CANDLE COMPANY

KRINGLE CANDLE COMPANY

GOURMET

Soothing Cinnamon Comforting, familiar cinnamon bark accords reach a harmonious agreement with notes of Tahitian vanilla and a creamy coconut complex.

Large Classic Jar – New for Spring. Calm, salty air with hints of sea grass and musk float gently on ocean waves. Come home to paradise.

Let the long, hypnotic Ribbonwick® flame and beautiful Lavender Pearl fragrance transform your room into a relaxing spa.

PLAYTHINGS

Ribbonwick® Decor Glass in Lavender Pearl Fragrance

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-5 1

VIRGINIA CANDLE COMPANY

Turquoise Sky™

| 800-792-6180 @ www.wholesale.yankeecandle.com # circle #452

HOLIDAYS

YANKEE CANDLE®

GIFTABLES

| 888-957-4645 @ www.kringlecandle.com # circle #453

| 800-827-2231 @ www.virginiacandle.com # circle #454

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 77

1/21/2013 12:53:01 PM

BEST SELLER! Original Before-You-Go Bathroom Spray

NEW! <j& Hgll k Hjgn]f Hgllq Hglagf :]^gj]%Qgm%?g :Yl`jgge KhjYq

NEW! Potty Mouth - 100% Natural Breath Mist

NEW! BadaBloom - Fragrance Infused Diffuser System

PROVEN BEST SELLER-FUN-CONSUMABLE MOST PRODUCTS UNDER $20 RETAIL! “The customers love it!” - Columbia, MO “Poo~Pourri is a wonderful product!” - Clermont, IA “Once we tried Poo~Pourri, we knew we had to sell it.” - Vat19.com “Poo~Pourri is one of our top sellers! We can’t keep it on the shelf!” - Lafayette, LA “We can’t keep the product on the floor, it sells out as soon as we get it in!” - Louisville, KY Circle #152

Untitled-5 1

1/21/2013 11:59:17 AM

HOME

>bath&body

FASHION CANDLES BATH

Sleek packaging fits the new personal care items.

& BODY STATIONERY GOURMET

The collection's three debut fragrances: Aloe Water Apricot, Tea Olive Lime and Coconut Fig Leaf.

GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS

Home Fresh This year, Caldrea launches its first full personal care collection featuring body soaps, cleansers, creams, oils, perfume and more.

PLAYTHINGS

Aromatherapeutic Body is an expansion of the company's home cleaning line, featuring six debut products and three premiere scents. Made of all-natural ingredients in the U.S.A. $10-$28. Caldrea. 877.576.8808. www.caldrea.com CIRCLE #801

giftsanddec.com

gda1302BBopenerid 79

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

â&#x201E;&#x2013; 79

1/22/2013 4:23:05 PM

HOME BATH

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>bath&body

STATIONERY

Rambling Rose is one of the 100% organic balms for use on face, lips and body. ¼ oz. $5.50. Figs & Rouge. info@figsandrouge.co.uk. www.figsandrouge.com

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

CIRCLE #847

PLAYTHINGS

Moisturizer is lightweight on the face and is absorbed instantly to protect against moisture loss. 4 oz. $18.99. Good For You Girls. 860.489.9912. www.goodforyougirls.com CIRCLE #846

Sleep Over cosmetic bag includes moisturizer and face wash in a fashionable case. $14. Willa. 855.559.4552. www.willaskincare.com CIRCLE #848

№ 80

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302BBtweenfeaid 80

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 4:23:40 PM

HOME FASHION

Everyday collection includes face wipes and moisturizer, shampoo and conditioner, and body lotion. $10-$18. Ottilie and Lulu. 877.372.5858. www.ottilieandlulu.com CIRCLE #849

CANDLES BATH & HOLIDAYS

Bonding Over Beauty takes mothers and daughters on a journey through beauty and learning about oneself. 240 p. $14.95. Greenleaf Book Group. 800.932.5420. www.greenleafbookgroup.com

PLAYTHINGS

gda1302BBtweenfeaid 81

GIFTABLES

giftsanddec.com

no different,” says Erika Katz, author of Bonding Over Beauty. “They are so influenced now by celebrities and red carpet looks and they want to look like their favorite celeb, which means flawless. Makeup and skin care offers them the fantasy of being able to be like the people they look up to.” Katz says that beauty and skincare products for tweens is not about making them a “beauty queen,” but instead it’s about teaching them how to properly cleanse their skin to avoid blemishes and acne and developing good hygiene in a fun way. She adds that girls can be taught to highlight natural features with some age-appropriate makeup that isn’t too harsh or comes across as too mature. In retail, she recommends choosing products that aren’t fragranced synthetically, unless the scent is light and derived from essential oils. “Manufactures should assume they are treating sensitive skin, because many girls do suffer from skin sensitivity,” she says. “They also need to be mindful of the parents who do not want their children using products loaded with chemicals and harsh surfactants.” •

CIRCLE #850

GOURMET

TWEENS ARE BIG CONSUMERS AND SHOPPERS. WHETHER IT’S MONEY FROM THEIR OWN POCKETS OR FROM THEIR PARENTS, GRANDPARENTS, AUNTS, UNCLES OR CAREGIVERS, these kids, ages 8 to 12, spend an estimated $30 billion of their own money and influence more than $150 billion in purchases by their parents, according to Research and Markets data. All tween sales are translating across multiple categories, from fashion, entertainment, toys and gadgets and even personal care products—everything from skin cleansers, creams, body lotions, perfumes, makeup and more. The NPD recently reported that tweens start using beauty products at the age of 10 and may use more than 24 different product categories, including fragrances, body sprays, body washes, cleansers, gels and lip products. The “Insight Into the Youth Beauty Market” report also found that on average, tweens spend nearly $500 million on beauty products each year. “Everyone wants to have beautiful skin and look their best; tweens are

STATIONERY

The right mix of bath and body for the younger set can bring in big bucks. B Y T I N A B E N I T E Z - E V E S

BODY

Tween Spirit

OO-La-La shampoo and conditoner are part of the line created by teen and tween sisters. 8 oz. $14. Sweet Dream Girlz. 888.280.3536. www.sweetdreamgirlz.com

CIRCLE #851

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 81

1/22/2013 4:44:19 PM

HOME STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>bath&body

Scented Puff has a strawberry scent with shimmering mica. Comes packaged in a luxury box. $4.50. Fairy Dust Ltd. 888.532.1400. www.fairydust.com

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

CIRCLE #852

PLAYTHINGS

Dirt Free, Hurt Free gift set introduces younger beauty fans to the Sparklehearts skincare collection.100% all natural and no animal testing (“hurt free”). Four 2-oz. bottles. $12.99. Sparklehearts. 714.397.9291. www.sparklehearts.com CIRCLE #853

Divine Lip Shine glosses are nonflavored, non-sticky and unscented. $15.95 each. Plain Jane Beauty. 888.762.2667. www,plainjanebeauty.net CIRCLE #854

№ 82

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302BBtweenfeaid 82

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 4:24:03 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

FASHION

POO~POURRI

Potty Mouth -- 100% Natural Breath Mist

CANDLES

Do you kiss your mom with that mouth? Enjoy fresh breath with this peppermint, cinnamon and vanilla breath mist. Also comes in citrus mint and mint. w/s $3.00.

Soyveda™ Ayurvedic® Candles

BATH

| 972-818-8200 @ www.poopourri.com # circle #456

EVERYBODY'S AYURVEDA™

BODY

Candle becomes a candle holder after use. 100% natural soy wax. 100% vegan. Packaged in tin to reduce postconsumer waste. Made in the USA.

STATIONERY

| 866-445-9993 @ www.soyveda.com # circle #455

EVERYBODY'S AYURVEDA™

GOURMET

Soyveda™ Gardner's Collection 100% pure essential lavender oil; no synthetic fragrance. 100% vegan (plant-based) formulation. No artificial dyes, sulfates, or parabens. Made in the USA.

GIFTABLES

| 866-445-9993 @ www.soyveda.com # circle #458

HOLIDAYS

EVERYBODY'S AYURVEDA™ POO~POURRI

NEW – Dr. Potts Proven Potty Potion

| 972-818-8200 @ www.poopourri.com # circle #457

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-5 1

Soyveda™ Ayurvedic® Perfumes Six dosha-balancing perfumes based on the wisdom of Ayurveda. 100% vegan and free from chemical solvents. 100 mL. Made in the USA.

| 866-445-9993 @ www.soyveda.com # circle #459

PLAYTHINGS

Will positively purify even the most pungent of potties! This natural Before-You-Go Bathroom Spray is made with tea tree, lavender and rosemary. w/s 2 oz. $5.00. 4 oz. $7.50.

HOME

product profile

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 83

1/21/2013 12:53:57 PM

R AY H O O P E R CARDS.GIFT

B AG S . C OA S T E R S

& O T H E R PA P E R P R O D U C T S

W W W. R AY H O O P E R D E S I G N . C O M

DESIGN

NOTE

212 414 1387

Circle #153

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 4:12:04 PM

HOME

>stationery

FASHION CANDLES

The calendar is spiral-bound and features 13 calendar pages.

BATH & BODY STATIONERY GOURMET

It comes with two large sheets of coordinating stickers.

GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS

Memories For Mom Mother’s Day is coming. It is the perfect time to honor the momto-be and suggest special gifts for her, as well as all other moms.

PLAYTHINGS

Forest Family Baby's First Year Calendar is provides mom with an easy chronological way to capture and record all the memories and moments of baby's first year—from the ordinary everyday happenings to the milestone events. $14. The Gift Wrap Company. 800.443.4429. www.giftwrapcompany.com CIRCLE #921

giftsanddec.com

gda1302STopenerid 85

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 85

1/23/2013 2:47:20 PM

HOME FASHION

>stationery

CANDLES

Preparing the Kitchen From tableware to placemats to recipe cards, today’s kitchen papers are both disposable and design-driven. BY KATHY KRASSNER

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

PAPER PRODUCTS HAVE ALWAYS BEEN AT HOME IN THE KITCHEN, but the latest influx of kitchen-related papers are proving to be more pretty, practical and profitable than ever. “We have become a foodie culture,” observes Ashley Brunner, marketing associate for the Studio Oh! division of Orange Circle Studio. Studio Oh! Produces the Oh! Kitchen collection, which offers a line of “Culinary Couture” products devoted to the foodie movement, including decorative paper napkins, plates, placemats, recipe cards, meal-planner pads and more. “Food has become a medium through which anyone can express their creativity,” continues Brunner. “As a result, there has been a rise in home entertainment focused on food, which is where the uptick in a desire for stylish kitchen-related goods comes into play.”

HOLIDAYS

Market List 4¼”x8” shopping pad includes 75 tear-off sheets and an attachable magnet. $9.50. Rifle Paper Co. 407.622.7679. www.riflepaperco.com CIRCLE #964

PLAYTHINGS

Mason Jar recipe cards measure 4”x6” and are printed front and back. $14/15 cards. 1canoe2 letterpress. 573.424.1309. www.1canoe2.com CIRCLE #960

№ 86

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302STkitchenfeaid 86

Stylish kitchen goods are the hallmark of the aptly named “Kitchen Papers” brand of Hester & Cook Design Group. In addition to numerous designs of elegant paper placemats, the line features paper table runners, napkins, serving papers and coasters, as well as kitchen-related stationery such as menu notes, recipe cards and a cook’s journal. New items include large die-cut paper designs that can serve as placemats or decorative table accents.

Convenience With Style “In the past several years, I believe the consumer has been looking for several things,” relates Angie Cook, partner, Hester & Cook, “including more convenience, sustainable products, products made here in the U.S.A., and, as always, something fun and new. From the mom who is looking for easy clean-up after serving a table full of kids, to the event planner who is looking for an affordable way to outfit an event ... this is a consumable product that is elegant, affordable and easy.” Also adding elegance to the kitchen are embossed napkins. Richard Glaser, director of sales, Paperproducts Design (PPD) comments, “We started several years ago with our Soho design—a contemporary, but classic woven look. We are very excited about our newest addition to the embossed category called ‘Embossed Tableware,’ featuring embossed decorated forks and knives to create a unique and stunning napkin.” Humorous-yet-sophisticated cocktail napkins are also top-sellers. For PPD, that includes licensed designs from Anne Taintor, The New Yorker and, most recently, Leslie Murray.

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 11:45:48 AM

HOME FASHION CANDLES

Such napkins appeal to a customer which Glaser describes as a 24-to-65year-old woman who entertains and appreciates art, design and clever humor.

Three Core Customers

BODY STATIONERY GOURMET

Song Contest design comes on plates, napkins and guest towels. $4-$6. Boston Intl. 508.893.0880. www.bostoninternational.com CIRCLE #961

GIFTABLES

Kitchen Papers’ Archival Perfect Setting placemat pad. 50 sheets. $24.95. Hester & Cook Design Group. 615.385.7254. shop.cakevintage.com CIRCLE #962

ing meals in the midst of leading busy, meaningful lives.”

Disposable Yet Eco-Friendly

Boston International’s IHR line. “All of our napkins are printed on 100 percent recycled tissue, with no degradation in the quality,” comments Faulkner. PPD incorporates a certain percentage of recycled pulp to produce its napkins, it only uses water-based inks, and all of its packaging is biodegradable. States Glaser: “Many environmental experts feel that it is worse for the environment to utilize the energy it takes to wash reusable

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

PLAYTHINGS

So, does the convenience of these paper products trump the trend of being green? No, insist suppliers. “Kitchenrelated papers are usually more green than not because they are made of renewable resources such as cotton and can be recycled,” asserts Shryock. Being green is also a selling point for

HOLIDAYS

gda1302STkitchenfeaid 87

giftsanddec.com

BATH

Steven Faulkner, president of Boston International—the U.S. distributor of the Ideal Home Range (IHR) line of paper tableware from Germany—has found there are three core groups of customers for kitchen-related papers. One is the home decorator, empty-nester and avid gift giver, aged 55-plus, who is style aware but conscious of product value. Another is the entertainer and busy mom, aged 35 to 54, who is very price aware and values convenience. The third is the chic party thrower and savvy shopper, under age 35, who wants inexpensive but quality goods and is also eco-friendly. Each of these groups are prime potential customers for the IHR line, which currently includes paper napkins, plates, guest towels and table runners. New are Cafe contemporary rectangle-shaped paper plates, as well as Doublo napkins printed on both sides. “We’ve noticed two trends,” observes Karen Shryock, partner, 1canoe2 letterpress, “One is that people want to have their family and favorite recipes catalogued in a way that is meaningful and organized. The second is that people also want to organize their family meals for health and efficiency reasons; thus, items such as our meal-planning notepads are both fun and functional.” In addition to those notepads, 1canoe2 letterpress offers recipe cards (both offset and letterpress printed), a recipe binder, and recipe card dividers that complement its handmade recipe boxes. “Many of our customers are those trying to preserve their family recipes, creating new ones for their own families,” Shryock adds, “and those doing their best to plan and eat healthy, satisfy-

№ 87

1/23/2013 11:46:02 AM

HOME STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>stationery

Self-standing, wire-o bound Recipe Keeper from Oh! Kitchen’s Culinary Couture line holds 70 sheets. $30. Studio Oh!, div. of Orange Circle Studio. 888.757.0801. www.studiooh.com CIRCLE #965

GOURMET

Bulldog Parisien 3-ply beverage napkin measures 5”x5”. $5/pkg. of 20. Paperproducts Design. 800.370.9998. www.paperproductsdesign.com CIRCLE #963

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

napkins, or to try to create 100 percent recycled napkins, than what we do— which is producing 100 percent environmentally friendly paper napkins.” “Before, paper products in the kitchen were seen as wasteful, and now we are considering the expense of other recourses like water when we do not use paper,” adds Studio Oh!’s Brunner. “In accordance, the materials being used in paper products are being given special consideration.” While Rifle Paper Co. uses FSCcertified papers and environmentally friendly inks, Elizabeth Sloan, accounts manager, admits that convenience is beneficial as well. “It’s hard to beat keeping a shopping pad on hand and quickly jotting items down when you need to run to the grocery store or market.” Rifle’s newest designs in this category include “Market List” and “Floral” shopping pads, “Baker’s” recipe cards and a “Homegrown Garden” recipe box.

№ 88

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302STkitchenfeaid 88

Merchandising Kitchen Papers It’s important to show customers how they can utilize paper products in the kitchen in unexpected ways. “Our runners and placemats double as great prep surfaces,” notes Cook of Hester & Cook. Conversely, she says the runners make great wrapping paper and the placemats can serve as desk blotters. “Many successful retailers use our napkins when they are setting up lifestyle displays with particular themes such as olive/wine, coastal, tea, lemons, etc.,” says PPD’s Glaser. “Our paper tableware can soften and warm up a display of hard goods and also offers a nice opening retail price point. Double merchandising like this will lead to greater sell through and profits for the retailers.” “Romancing the kitchen-related selection with food-related displays such as a fake oven or refrigerator door filled with props for purchase entices the consumer into pictur-

ing the goods in their own home kitchen,” adds Brunner of Studio Oh! “Kitchen-related products and papers are always merchandised best when the buyer can envision the item in use in their own kitchen,” agrees Shryock of 1canoe2. She suggests displaying recipe cards that are already filled out, having recipe binders open to a favorite recipe that is written out by hand, and showing a notepad with the grocery list already started or the meal planner roughed out for the week. The more ideas you can provide, the more kitchen papers you’re likely to sell—and, thanks to their disposable nature and low price points—keep selling again and again. “The average retail price of a package of cocktail napkins is the same price as a latte at Starbucks,” Glaser remarks. “If a retailer puts it out front and forward, it will retail and turn quickly.” •

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 11:46:18 AM

HOME

>stationery

FASHION CANDLES BATH & BODY STATIONERY

a A vintage image and humorous verse are

Magnetic Messages

paired on this 2”x3” magnet. $3.95. Ephemera. 800.537.7226. www.ephemera-inc.com CIRCLE #922

GOURMET

An old refrigerator door makes a great in-store prop for displaying these decorative, message-driven magnets.

GIFTABLES

MORE ON TREND

HOLIDAYS

c Nice Advice magnet measures 2”x3” and has a super-strong magnetic back. $4.50. Rock Scissor Paper. 818.361.1142. www.rockscissorpaper.com

d Photographic magnet features the wicked witch from The Wizard of Oz. $9.99. Paper House Productions. 800.255.7316. www.paperhouseproductions.com

CIRCLE #923

CIRCLE #925

CIRCLE #924

PLAYTHINGS

b Big Clicks 2” magnet includes a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson. $6.50. iPop, in partnership with The Madison Park Group. 800.638.9622. madisonparkgroup.com

ALL PRICES RETAIL

giftsanddec.com

gda1302STmagnetid 89

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 89

1/23/2013 11:46:51 AM

HOME FASHION

>stationery

Messages for Mom

BODY

CANDLES

Approximately 133 million Mother’s Day cards will be purchased by American consumers this year, according to the Greeting Card Association. Be sure your store gets a share of those sales!

b Inside verse of card from cat reads: “I’d ‘like’ you. Happy Mother’s Day.” $2.50. RSVP/Sellers Publishing. 800.778.7266. www.rsvp.com

BATH

CIRCLE #929

GOURMET

STATIONERY

c Photographic card carries the sentiment, “Best Mom Ever! Happy Mother’s Day.” $3.29. Avanti Press Inc. 800.228.2864. www.avantipress.com

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

CIRCLE #926

PLAYTHINGS

a “Thanks, Mom” is the inner verse inside this hand-silkscreened card. $3.95. Great Arrow Graphics. 800.835.0490. www.greatarrow.com CIRCLE #928

d Blank card from GallardoWorks features handembellishment. $5. Calypso Cards. 888.203.7327. www.calypsocards.com CIRCLE #927 ALL PRICES RETAIL

№ 90

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302STmothersdayid 90

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 11:47:31 AM

HOME

>stationery

FASHION

Hey Baby!

CANDLES

A balanced selection in the baby section should include keepsakes as well as sweet papers to show and tell all about the new arrival.

BATH & BODY

b Elephant baby book is a keepsake record of baby's first 12 months. 20 pages. 8”x11”. $20. Ecojot. 800.836.6669. www.ecojot.com

d Mom and Me photo frame features a sheep figure perched on top of blocks. Lillian Rose. 800.521.8760. www.lillianrose.com

CIRCLE #930

CIRCLE #931

CIRCLE #932

STATIONERY

b Announcement ensemble is part of a new letterpress collection. Boatman Geller. 866.573.9429 www.boatmangeller.com

ALL PRICES RETAIL

GOURMET GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS PLAYTHINGS

Circle #139 giftsanddec.com

gda1302STbabyid 91

Circle #182 february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 91

1/23/2013 5:17:30 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

NASHVILLE WRAPS

Ikat Sunrise Collection

BATH

RAY HOOPER DESIGN

Gift bags, note cards and coasters feature details from rare books in The New York Botanical Garden’s LuEster T. Mertz Library Collections.

This original ikat design comes in pretty yellow with soft gray and black. Part of our Green Way® brand of eco-friendly packaging that includes 100% recycled kraft paper shopping bags, 100% recycled tissue paper, 100% recycled boxboard jewelry boxes and 90% recycled gift wrap. See all of our new Spring 2013 collections online.

| 212-414-1387 @ www.rayhooperdesign.com # circle #460

| 800-547-9727 @ www.nashvillewraps.com # circle #461

STATIONERY

Japanese Irises

GOURMET

RAY HOOPER DESIGN

Gift Wraps Packs Our gift wraps make for elegant unique gift wrapping. Twelve folded sheets open to 32 x 20.5 inches each.

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

| 212-414-1387 @ www.rayhooperdesign.com # circle #462

AVANTI PRESS, INC. RAY HOOPER DESIGN

Cards For All Occasions

PLAYTHINGS

“You have the right to remain in denial! Happy Birthday.” Seriously funny cards from Avanti! Made in USA.

| 800-2-AVANTI @ www.avantipress.com # circle #463

№ 92

Untitled-5 1

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

Aerides Brookeii Gift bags, note cards and coasters feature details from rare books in The New York Botanical Garden’s LuEster T. Mertz Library Collections.

| 212-414-1387 @ www.rayhooperdesign.com # circle #464

giftsanddec.com

1/21/2013 12:54:16 PM

HOME

>gourmet

FASHION CANDLES BATH

The dispenser features a non-slip base and a soap level indicator.

& BODY STATIONERY GOURMET

The unique design keeps the dispenser clean, while you dispense the soap.

GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS

Get Pumped Every good cook knows to keep things clean in the kitchen. Joseph Joseph’s latest design helps keep your hands—and the dispenser—spic and span.

PLAYTHINGS

C-Pump is a single-handed soap dispenser that can easily be pumped with the back of one’s hand. $15. Joseph Joseph. 516.248.1875. www.josephjoseph.com CIRCLE #869

giftsanddec.com

gda1302GOopenerid 93

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 93

1/22/2013 3:46:28 PM

HOME FASHION

>gourmet

Going Nuts!

BODY

CANDLES

People love nuts, so a variety of the crunchy treats can go a long way in store and have a longer shelf life. Mix it up with some sweet variations, as well as sea salt-, fruitand spice-infused nut creations.

b Peanuts come in Jalapeno, Cajun, Dark Choco-

BATH

late, Toffee and more versions. $10 each. Virigina Cocktail. 877.872.1957. www.mvsbest.com

STATIONERY

CIRCLE #838

GOURMET

c Hazelnuts are sweet and salty in this nutty blend crafted by hand in Oregon with Willamette Valley nuts. 8 oz. $11.95. Albina City Nuts. 503.956.9141. www.albinacitynuts.com

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

CIRCLE #840

a Peanut Brittle Crunch is a classic sweet and salty treat of candy and nuts. 9 oz., $6.95; 18 oz. $12.95. Feridies. 800.544.0896. www.feridies.com

PLAYTHINGS

CIRCLE #839

d Coconut and Cashews are premium roasted whole cashews enhanced with toasted coconut chips and a little touch of pepper flakes. $8. Gary & Kit. 707.968.062. www.cliffamilywinery.com CIRCLE #841

ALL PRICES RETAIL

â&#x201E;&#x2013; 94

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302GOnutsid 94

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 3:47:11 PM

FASHION

Clean Cooking

HOME

>gourmet

CANDLES

Keep things neat and tidy in the kitchen with handy tools that keep odors away and surfaces splatter-free.

BATH &

b Flour sack towels are an alternative to paper towels. Made of 100% cotton, they are lint free, highly absorbant and quick drying. The set of two come packaged and tied with a ribbon and tag. $15. Alice's Cottage. 301.766.7344. www.alicescottage.com

CIRCLE #884

CIRCLE #885

c Fruit and Veggie Savers feature airtight lids and keep the refrigerator odor-free. $15.99 for a set of four. Mastrad. 800.358.0608. www.mastrad.us

STATIONERY

Rashid, can be unrolled above an open sink to form an undulating surface for washed dishes, glasses and utensils. Approximately 12½”x17½”. Siliconezone. 800.383.9650. www.siliconezone.com

BODY

a The Sink Roll, designed by Karim

CIRCLE #883 ALL PRICES RETAIL

GOURMET GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS PLAYTHINGS

Circle #162 giftsanddec.com

gda1302GOneatkitchenid 95

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 95

1/24/2013 4:38:39 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

DEBRAND FINE CHOCOLATES

BATH

SQUIRE BOONE VILLAGE

Candies

Easter Chocolates

Fancy candies in collectible canning jars with customdesigned stickers on the lid.

This Easter, high quality chocolates from DeBrand are a must! Choose from the “Happy Easter” bars, adorable Mini Bunnies or the new Filled Eggs.

STATIONERY

| 888-234-1804 @ www.squireboone.com # circle #465

| 260-969-8335 @ www.debrand.com # circle #466

GOURMET

SQUIRE BOONE VILLAGE

Sweet Swizzlers Swizzlers rock candy sticks, used to stir and sweeten coffee and tea.

GIFTABLES

| 888-234-1804 @ www.squireboone.com # circle #467

HOLIDAYS

EVERYBODY'S AYURVEDA™

Teaveda™ Ayurvedic Tea

PLAYTHINGS

Fine Ayurvedic teas available in six dosha-balancing blends. Sold in tea storage tin to reduce postconsumer waste. 100% chemical-free, biodegradable. Shown: Kapha.

| 866-445-9993 @ www.everybodysayurveda.com # circle #468

№ 96

Untitled-5 1

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

TABLECRAFT

Twist ‘N Shot Fill, chill, twist the collar, release the gelatin and shoot. Your gel shot glides out of the cup. How easy is that! 12 resuable cups in bright orange, blue, yellow or pink. Item H733.

| 800-835-1195 @ www. .com # circle #469

giftsanddec.com

1/21/2013 12:55:27 PM

HOME

>giftables

FASHION CANDLES BATH &

Adam the Doodles (released last year) now has a friend in Rover.

BODY STATIONERY HOLIDAYS

Modern desk accessories that serve a dual function—decorative and practical—make the home office an attractive workplace.

PLAYTHINGS

Rover the Doodles can stand, beg, roll over and pose in any position. Comes gift boxed for easy giving. $25. Design Ideas. 800.426.6394. www.designideas.net CIRCLE #837

giftsanddec.com

gda1302GIopenerid 97

GIFTABLES

Get a Hold

GOURMET

Made of stainless steel with aluminum rivets, the figures are poseable and can hold up pencils and pens, photos and more.

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 97

1/22/2013 5:00:30 PM

HOME FASHION

>giftables

Global Chic

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

Both chic and easy, ethnic prints and patterns bring a worldy element to one’s home or wardrobe.

STATIONERY

b Santa Barbara stool features a Mayan fabric and a chocolate leather band. 18”x21”. Peninsula Home Collection. 949.553.9856. www.phcollection.com

GOURMET

CIRCLE #873

c Missy Kilim wristlets are made from antique Kilim rugs. $55.99. Mountain Mamas. 877.649.3160. www.mountainmamas.com

GIFTABLES

CIRCLE #874

HOLIDAYS

a Hand-woven wool pillow featuring a bright diamond pattern. Fair trade. The company aims to connect Zapotec artisans in Teotitlan del Valle near Oaxaca, Mexico, with new markets and perpetuate their artistry. Available in 18”x18”, 20”x20” and 22”x22”. $70. Manos Zapotecas. 949.433.5623. www.manoszapotecas.com

PLAYTHINGS

CIRCLE #872

d Panama Weave reversible placemat shown with a coral linen napkin and antique rust napkin ring. Siverado Home. 505.248.1221. www.silveradohome.com CIRCLE #875 ALL PRICES RETAIL

№ 98

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302GIsouthwestid 98

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 3:50:49 PM

Gray skies are gonna clear up with our new collection of giftware. From mugs to umbrellas, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got the right items to shower your store with sales. Call 800-4ENESCO or visit www.enesco.com enesco.com/business

Circle #186

Untitled-1 1

1/22/2013 3:50:46 PM

HOME FASHION

Playful Patterns Spring collections are given a geometric makeover. In soft pastels and bright shades, these offerings are light, fun and classic. b Rikrak beveled mirror features a two-tone frame of clear and cocoa taupe. 32”x70”. Kichler. 866.558.5706. www.theadcomgroup.com

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

>giftables

GOURMET

STATIONERY

CIRCLE #881

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

c Portico collection includes 4” trinket dishes, $32/set of four; mugs, $48/set of four; plates, $44/ set of four; and a 12½”x6½” tray, $38. Rosanna. 877.343.3779. www.rosannainc.com CIRCLE #880

a Bradshaw bedding collection. $2,255 for a queen bed set. Eastern Accents. 773.604.7178. www.easternaccents.com CIRCLE #882

d Sunrise Key sunglass case. $12. All For Color. 772.919.7584. www.allforcolor.com CIRCLE #879 ALL PRICES RETAIL

№ 100 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302GIgeometricid 100

| february 2013

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 3:51:27 PM

Circle #169

Untitled-1 1

1/15/2013 10:48:40 AM

The Perfect Expression of Love F O R M O T H E R â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S D AY

â&#x20AC;˘

Our musical gift boxes have been RANKED #1 in *LIW%HDW 0DJD]LQH 5 YEARS RUNNING!

â&#x20AC;˘

MORE Cottage Garden music boxes are SOLD DURING MOTHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAY than any other time of year.

order yours today!

1HZ LPSURYHG ::: &*&2//(&7,216 &20 6$< 520$1

$7/$17$ Â&#x2021; &+,&$*2 Â&#x2021; '$//$6 Â&#x2021; '(19(5 Â&#x2021; /$6 9(*$6 Â&#x2021; 0,11($32/,6 Â&#x2021; 6($77/( 36

Circle #154

See the latest news from Gift + Home at Las Vegas Market Look to our website at www.GiftsandDec.com for video news reports by Editorial Director, Warren Shoulberg. Watch our series of videos to see: s New products from market s Business trends & analysis s Insights from industry leaders SPONSORED BY

VISIT WWW.GIFTANDHOMELV.COM

January 2013 Frac pages.indd 2

1/21/2013 3:10:02 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

HOME

product profile

FASHION CANDLES BATH

PARTY ANIMAL TOYS

Collegiate Garden Statues Great for outdoor or indoor use. 19" – 25" tall. Made of fiberglass/ polyresin. Over 30 schools available.

STATIONERY

| 800-456-0145 @ www.partyanimalinc.com # circle #470

BODY

3" articulated figures officially licensed for NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, and over 50 colleges! Sold individually or in sets! Ages 4 and up. SRP: $9.99.

OXBAY

Lil’ Teammates

| 919-989-9712 @ www.oxbay.net # circle #471

COLLINS PAINTING & DESIGN

GOURMET

HW-4664 Mom with Sunshine Box Sign From Collins Vintage in Print Collection, 8" W x 8" T x 1½" D. Suggested retail $17.95.

GIFTABLES

| 877-490-5909 @ www.collinspainting.com # circle #473

IT TAKES TWO

HOLIDAYS

Thank You Boxed Cards

COLONIAL TIN WORKS, INC.

Industrial Clips with Cast Base

| 800-433-5054 @ www.ctwhomecollection.com # circle #472

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-5 1

PLAYTHINGS

Tallest clip is 16½" tall and strong enough to hold heavy items, including small books or folders.

15 bright note cards with fullcolor art on front and inside in a fully-decorated, hard-cover box. More great choices available for year-round use. Call for catalog. SRP $9.50.

| 800-331-9843 @ www.ittakestwo.com # circle #474

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 103

1/21/2013 12:55:56 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

STATIONERY

BATH

KENNEDY’S COUNTRY COLLECTION

UNISUB

Old Writing Canvas

Fashion Frames for the iPhone 5

Featuring a vintage look, the Old Writing Canvases hang from a black ribbon and are sold as an assortment of two. Each canvas measures 4" x 8" x 1".

ChromaLuxe Fashion Frames for smartphones and tablets allows customers to interchange HD metal inserts, customized with photos, artwork or text.

| 877-745-5050 @ www.kennedyscountry.com # circle #475

| 630-427-8930 @ www.progiftsource.com # circle #476

EPIC PRODUCTS INC.

GOURMET

New from our Farmers Market Collection is this rustic Rooster Cork Cage®. Our Original Cork Cages® are a wonderful place to collect all those treasured corks from your favorite bottles of wine or champagne. Many more Cork Cage® styles available!

GIFTABLES

Rooster Cork Cage® – Cocktails-A-Doodle-Do!

| 800-548-9791 @ www.epicproductsinc.com # circle #477

HOLIDAYS

AMIA STUDIOS ENESCO

Holy Crap by Erin Smith

PLAYTHINGS

HOLY CRAP! You found us! A sassy new collection of porcelain mugs, journals, notepads, shopper bags and more that really make a statement! Journal is 5 ¾" H. Collection SRP $5.00 - $15.00. © 2013 Erin Smith Art

| 800-4ENESCO @ www.enesco.com/business # circle #478

№ 104 gifts and decorative accessories

Untitled-5 1

| february 2013

Butterfly Fantasy Dimensional butterflies are painted and brushed by hand using a special white paste-like material creating a tone-on tone layered appearance. Large Oval 6½" (W) x 9" (H). SRP: $28.

| 800-571-4665 @ www.amiastudiosblaircedar.com # circle #479

giftsanddec.com

1/21/2013 12:56:16 PM

HOME

product profile

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

FASHION CANDLES BATH

SLANT COLLECTIONS

ENESCO

STATIONERY

| 800-4ENESCO @ www.enesco.com/business # circle #480

Colorful. Cool. Contained. Take your beverage on the go with you and don't risk spilling a single sip. This double-walled acrylic tumbler holds 22 ounces, and has a rubber-sealed lid and colorful straw. A smooth cup rim makes for comfortable cold or hot beverage sipping. $13.99 MSRP.

BODY

Beautifully hand crafted with great attention to detail, horse lovers will fall for this stone resin figurine, Apple of My Eye. This piece features a brass name plate and story written on the bottom of the base. 4.5" H. SRP $49.00

Acrylic Tumbler with Pop Top Lid and Straw

Horse Whispers

| 877-367-3015 @ www.slantcollection.com # circle #481

GOURMET

COLONIAL TIN WORKS, INC.

“Letters In” Mail Caddy 11" wide. Display on a wall or table. Etched brass signs complete the vintage look.

GIFTABLES

| 800-433-5054 @ www.ctwhomecollection.com # circle #482

HOLIDAYS

AMIA STUDIOS

Echoes West LILLIAN ROSE INC.

24FR212 LD Dad & Me Photo Frame

| 800-521-8760 @ www.lillianrose.com # circle #483

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-5 1

PLAYTHINGS

This adorable frame is a great way for any dad to show off his precious child. Also available: Mom & Me.

Bring the great outdoors inside with this incredibly creative wildlife 3-dimensional wood-like sculpted statue, featuring inserted glass “Echoes” – arrowheads that are reflections of the sculpted animals. 2-1/4" D x 6-1/2" W x 9-1/2" H. SRP: $29.

| 800-571-4665 @ www.amiastudiosblaircedar.com # circle #484

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 105

1/21/2013 12:56:54 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

BODY

W.I.N.O.S. INC. (WOMEN IN NEED OF SANITY)

Shoe Stoppers

STATIONERY

BATH

UNISUB

Personalized Coasters

Bottle stoppers especially for W.I.N.O.S. (Women In Need Of Shoes)™. Polyresin shoe mounted on chrome and rubber bottle stopper. Some with bling. $5.00.

Your customers can flaunt their inner hostess by giving personalized Unisub coasters as the perfect hostess with the mostess gift.

| 888-488-9466 @ www.winoshavefun.com # circle #486

| 630-427-8930 @ www.progiftsource.com # circle #485

EPIC PRODUCTS INC.

Cow Cork Cage® – Mooooore Corks please!

GOURMET

New from our recently released Western Collection is this cute & quaint Cow Cork Cage®. Our Original Cork Cages® are a wonderful place to collect all those treasured corks from your favorite bottles of wine or champagne. Many more Cork Cage® styles available!

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

| 800-548-9791 @ www.epicproductsinc.com # circle #488

BLOSSOM BUCKET, INC.

PLAYTHINGS

AMIA STUDIOS

Orchid Collage

Birdhouse Shelf

This distinctive collage featuring diverse orchids needs only dragonflies in an interesting colorful artistic assemblage to create new exotic design excitement. 10" vase hand-painted design. SRP: $50.

Add a unique twist to garden displays with this Birdhouse Shelf (12.25"L x 17"H). MSRP: $42.99.

| 800-571-4665 @ www.amiastudiosblaircedar.com # circle #487

№ 106 gifts and decorative accessories

Untitled-5 1

| february 2013

| 800-662-5923 @ www.blossombucket.com # circle #489

giftsanddec.com

1/21/2013 12:57:21 PM

HOME

>holidays

FASHION CANDLES BATH &

Designer Kristen DePante works with teams of artisans in Africa and China to interpret her designs through beading.

BODY STATIONERY GOURMET

Each tree is handsculpted using wire frames intricately wrapped with colorful glass beads.

GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS

Tree Crafted No Christmas tree is ever the same—part of the inspiration behind Beadworx’ handcrafted, one-of-a-kind holiday collection.

PLAYTHINGS

Christmas Trees are part of the holiday Beadworx collection, which also includes ornaments, home decor and lamps. Grass Roots Creations. 727.944.5944. www.grassrootscreations.com CIRCLE #819

giftsanddec.com

gda1302HDopenerid 107

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 107

1/22/2013 4:30:59 PM

HOME FASHION

Old Scenes In 2013, the holidays are going back in time with some classic 1950s (and earlier) inspired Santas, reindeer and other, fun retro designs.

b Standing Deer is right out of the 56 Christmas collection. $25. Department 56. 800.436.3726 www.department56.com

BODY

CANDLES

>holidays

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

CIRCLE #820

c Vintage Santa collection recreates vintage draw-

GIFTABLES

ings of old St. Nick as tableware. $16. Grasslands Road. 800.444.8887. www.grasslandsroad.com

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

CIRCLE #822

a Lighted Shimmer Bobble Head Santa and Cardinal make things shine with all the glitter of a classic snowglobe and tummies that light up. $23.50. Midwest-CBK. 800.394.4225. www.mwcbk.com

d Christmas Van is inspired by an old Volkswagon van, first introduced in 1950, that's full of Christmas goods. $75.50. Roman. 800.729.7662. www.roman.com

CIRCLE #821

CIRCLE #823 ALL PRICES RETAIL

â&#x201E;&#x2013; 108 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302HDvintageid 108

| february 2013

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 3:52:23 PM

FASHION

Big and Burly

CANDLES

b Snowman Friends are part of the Jute Fabulous collection and can be used as ornaments or wall art for the holidays. $36. Silvestri by Demdaco. 855.544.3226. www.demdaco.com

Rusticity, woodland-inspired and vintage are strong holiday design influences with more burlap being woven into seasonal decorative pieces.

HOME

>holidays

CIRCLE #825

BATH & BODY STATIONERY GOURMET

c Burlap Wreath features teal- and natural-colored burlap flaps with bulbous bells. $50. Sullivan Gift. 800.456.4568. www.sullivangift.com

GIFTABLES

CIRCLE #826

HOLIDAYS

d Good Cheer Stocking can be used with the blockprinted burlap tag or without for customization. $50. Eastern Accents. 800.397.4556. www.easternaccents.com a Burlap Deer is part of the Homespun

PLAYTHINGS

CIRCLE #827 ALL PRICES RETAIL

Christmas collection. Measures 10½”. $9.99. Creative Co-Op. 866.323.2264. www.creativecoop.com CIRCLE #824

giftsanddec.com

gda1302HDburlapid 109

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 109

1/22/2013 4:30:40 PM

Gifts and Decorative Accessories is now available on the iPad. Go to giftsanddec.com/app to learn more.

iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Untitled-2 1

1/23/2013 8:58:17 AM

HOME

product profile

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

FASHION CANDLES BATH BODY

Lighted Roly Poly Mini Snowman

AMIA STUDIOS MIDWEST-CBK, LLC

A Hill-Of-A-Lot-Of Snowmen Christmas Stocking Panel Highly decorated windows will forever be enhanced with these large spectacular Christmas stockings. Hung with care by color-coordinated tasseled rope, these beveled glass hand-painted decorations have special heirloom qualities. 10½" (W) x 16½" (L). SRP: $50.

| 800-394-4225 @ www.mwcbk.com # circle #490

| 800-571-4665 @ www.amiastudiosblaircedar.com # circle #491

BLOSSOM BUCKET, INC.

STATIONERY

Light up holiday sales with the glow, magic and movement of Wonderlights! Featuring a variety of glittering, shimmering, playful characters and sizes starting at $3.50 wholesale.

Lighted Snowman This large lighted snowman makes an ideal focal point for seasonal displays (7"L x 16.25"H). MSRP: $29.99.

| 800-662-5923 @ www.blossombucket.com # circle #492

GOURMET GIFTABLES

Lace Snowflake Hanging Pendant

| 800-394-4225 @ www.mwcbk.com # circle #493

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-5 1

KENNEDY’S COUNTRY COLLECTION

Lighted O Holy Night Canvas The Lighted O Holy Night Canvas is battery operated and features real lights that flicker. Requires two AA batteries and measures 12" x 16" x 1".

PLAYTHINGS

Illuminate the season with the beauty of Holiday Brights paper snowflake and star pendant lights. Featuring a variety of designs and colors with wholesale prices starting at $5 each!

HOLIDAYS

MIDWEST-CBK, LLC

| 877-745-5050 @ www.kennedyscountry.com # circle #494

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 111

1/21/2013 12:57:47 PM

Circle #147

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 3:46:35 PM

HOME

>playthings

FASHION CANDLES BATH

John Bill Ricketts, a performer in the Hughes Royal Circus in London, brought the first modern circus to the United States in 1792.

To play: balance steel pieces on top of each other using the power of a magnet in the base.

BODY STATIONERY GOURMET GIFTABLES

Balancing Act This stack and play set can take kids to the circus while helping them develop their balancing and concentration skills.

HOLIDAYS

Circus Pit Land includes 15 steel pieces that can be balanced on top of each other using the power of the magnetic base. $25. Magnote. 415.935.1147. www.magnote.com CIRCLE #828

PLAYTHINGS

CIRCLE #123

giftsanddec.com

gda1302PLopenerid 113

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

â&#x201E;&#x2013; 113

1/23/2013 2:46:56 PM

HOME BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>playthings TABLE OF CONTENTS

118

WHAT'S SELLING

BATH

113 Balancing Act 116 Playthings News 118 What's Selling

STATIONERY

BY PAMELA BRILL

120 None of Your Business? The industry’s top challenge: too much competition BY RICHARD GOTTLIEB

126

REBUILDING THE CONSTRUCTION TOYS CATEGORY

122 Assessing Expertise Tips for gauging your business and product knowledge

GOURMET

BY KATHLEEN MCHUGH

126 Rebuilding the Construction Toys Category BY PAMELA BRILL

GIFTABLES

130 Game Time 132 Playful Plush 134 Music to the Ears

HOLIDAYS

136 Getting on Track 138 Riding On 132

PLAYFUL PLUSH

139 DIY Play

140 Playful Retailer: The Three E's of Brilliant Sky

PLAYTHINGS

BY MILLIE SZERMAN

142 Early Learning

138 Circle #131

№ 114 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PL_contentsid 114

| february 2013

RIDING ON

Circle #206 giftsanddec.com

1/24/2013 10:22:01 AM

New for 2013 Golden Dragon American Intl. Toy Fair

Feb 10 -13 | New York, NY Jacob Javits Conv. Ctr. Booth 1637

San Francisco Gift

APPL

Toy Fest West

ASD

Feb 16 - 19 | San Francisco, CA Moscone Ctr. Rep R. Biz Booth 2419 March 10 - 13 | Las Vegas, NV South Point Hotel & Casino Booth 1017

Scan Me to See Our Entire Collection

March 10 - 14 | Portland, OR Oregon Conv. Ctr. Booth 504 March 17- 20 | Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas Conv. Ctr. Booth SL 3312

Over 100 New 2013 Introductions

FREE FIXTURE PROGRAMS NOW AVAILABLE!

Replicas designed by Safari Ltd速 in the US since 1982

Order online at at safariltd.com or call 800.554.5414 for a free color catalog. Circle #156

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 3:55:09 PM

HOME FASHION CANDLES BODY & BATH STATIONERY GOURMET GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS PLAYTHINGS

>playthings NEWS ROUNDUP

Monopoly to Replace Iconic Board Game Token Pawtucket, R.I. - Is it the racecar, thimble, shoe or iron? Monopoly is getting ready to replace one of its classic board game pieces, and Hasbro is letting fans decide which one will go. Hasbro kicked off the "Save Your Token" campaign on Facebook, asking players to vote for the tokens they want to keep. The game piece with the least amount of votes will be removed from the game forever and replaced with one of the new proposed pieces—a robot, helicopter, guitar, diamond ring or cat. The board game, created by Charles Darrow in the 1930s was later sold to Parker Brothers. Some of the game pieces were reportedly designed by Darrow's nieces; six of the current pieces have remained a part of the game since 1935 with the Scottie dog and wheelbarrow joining in the 1950s.

Toy Sales End Big 2012 Port Washington, NY - The toy business left off on a good note in 2012. The NPD Group reported that sales were up throughout the U.S. retail toy industry ending with a strong December finish. Sales were up 18 percent and unit sales were up 10 percent when compared to the same time period in 2011, according to the NPD Group's Retail Tracking Service. Overall, dollar sales for December topped $5 billion for the first time in three years, and were up 1.3 percent versus one year ago. Toy categories with the largest revenue gains in 2012 were building sets, arts and crafts, dolls and infant/preschool, with respective increases of 19.7 percent, 6.9 percent, 5.8 percent and 2.5 percent. Plush, outdoor and sports toys, vehicles and games and puzzles experienced the biggest declines from 2011, at 12.6 percent, 8 percent, 6.2 percent and 5.8 percent, respectively.

North American Bear Gets First Sophie & Lili License Chicago - The North American Bear Company acquired the first licensing

№ 116 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PLNewsid 116

| february 2013

Monopoly is replacing one of its iconic tokens with one of the above, and fans will vote via Facebook and decide which piece will be removed from the game forever. deal for Sophie & Lili, which includes an exclusive for dolls and soft accessories to debut fall 2013. Created by artist Jennifer Valez, the exclusive Sophie & Lili designs for North American Bear include a collection of six doll friends—Sophie, Lili, Joy, Lena, Mimi and Gigi—in six 12" dolls; and coordinating 6½" mini dolls. Made of screen-printed cotton fabric in twodimensional design, each doll features a colorfully deisgned outfit on front and a custom textile print on back.

In partnership with Hasbro, Kahootz Toys' Brent Oeschger, Doug Cass, Joe Yassay, and Colleen Loughman, formerly of Giddy Up, which was sold last year, has brought the toy back to consumers this year. Using a pencil and the set of stencillike drawing tools, players can create hypotrochoids and epitrochoids and other mathematical curves. Created by British engineer, Denys Fisher, the game was first exhibited at Nuremberg International Toy Fair in 1965 and introduced to the U.S. in 1966.

Ravensberger Helps U.S. Toys Seattle - German toy maker, Ravensburger AG, has made a strategic investment in U.S. games and puzzles manufacturer, Wonder Forge. The investment may help the U.S. game maker's future growth. Launched in 2007, Wonder Forge, has a collection of more than 60 games and puzzles, featuring popular kids' properties like Disney Princess, Minnie Mouse, Jake and the Never Land Pirates, Dr. Seuss, DC Super Friends, Angelina Ballerina, Curious George and Chuggington.

Jazwares Enters U.K. Market Sunrise, FL - Jazwares is opening a new office in London and expanding its presence in the U.K. The company, which used distributors to reach the U.K. and European market in the past, is set to open a U.K. office in London's West End. Jazwares designs a variety of toys, electronics and stationery products featuring some popular licenses, including Sonic, Star Wars, Nicktoons and Plants vs. Zombies and the pop group One Direction.

Blue Orange Games to Lauch First Toy Line

Dunecraft Founder Named Chairman of Arts Center

San Francisco - Blue Orange Games is getting ready to debut its first toy line— Engenius—at this year's Toy Fair. The collection features wooden models that are easy to assemble and construct, including the Airplane (40 pieces), Helicopter (28 pieces) and Spaceship (29 pieces) sets.

Cleveland - Grant Cleveland, president and founder of Dunecraft, was named president of Fairmount Center for the Arts' Board of Trustees. In his new position, Cleveland will work with the current Board of Trustees at the center to help continue its mission following some recent financial struggles. He is planning to help move the Fairmont Center forward by rebuilding the board, developing an advisory committee and better defining its role as a leader in the arts community in Cuyahoga and Geauga counties.

Spirograph Makes Comeback Ann Arbor, MI - Spirograph, the classic geometric drawing toy, first introduced in 1965, is back in the toy world again.

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 3:12:57 PM

DOUGLAS Wildlife

速

DouglasToys.com 1-800-992-9002

Untitled-1 1

TOYFAIR Booth 639 Javits Center Circle #125

1/22/2013 4:29:45 PM

FASHION

HOME

STOP THE BULLYING! >playthings

&)6% 349,%3 s 47/ 3):%3

Soaring Sales

CANDLES

BY PAMELA BRILL

S A N D Y S PRIN GS, G A

BEAN HEAD TOYS

BATH

BODY

Toy sales really heated up over the holidays at this southern specialty shop. Owner Chris Lowe reveals which products were tops with her customers:

Sort & Snap Color Match from Melissa & Doug

Calico Critters Ice Cream Truck from International Playthings

Sea Plane from Green Toys

STATIONERY

1.2.3 Recycling Truck from Playmobil Spot It! Alphabet from Blue Orange Games Sticky Mosaics line from The Orb Factory

GOURMET

The seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest surprise seller, according to Lowe, was the Boogie Board. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At first, customers didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think much of it, but then it really took off,â&#x20AC;? she notes, adding that overall sales at her two Atlanta area stores (the other in Buckhead) met her expectations. To keep customers coming, Bean Head hosted an elf party that helped get shoppers in the spirit and promoted its business via social media outlets.

GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS PLAYTHINGS

CIRCLE #980

Boogie Board LCD Writing Tablet from Kent Displays

Sea Plane from Green Toys

BA RA B OO, WI

JUST IMAGINE TOYS Join the growing cause against bullying! Mary Meyer will donate 10% of ikimono proďŹ ts to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stand for the Silentâ&#x20AC;?, a grass roots organization committed to making bullying a thing of the past. Hang tags invite all to join the cause against bullying and promises our donation for every ikimono sold.

Sea plane. Green Toys. 415.839.9971. www.greentoys.com

Serving a rural Midwestern community of about 12,000 residents, this destination toy store provides its customers with plenty of reasons to play. Owner Todd Wickus shares which toys are current favorites: Speedeebee! From Blue Orange Games Mini Flyer from MukikiM Assorted Beanie Ballz from Ty Perplexus (all styles) from PlaSmart Snap Circuits Junior from Elenco ScienceWiz Inventions from Norman & Globus

The best seller for the season, hands down, was the Mini Flyer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People liked it because it was goofy,â&#x20AC;? explains Wickus of this impulse buy. Harnessing his storeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 18 years of business, he worked closely with local downtown groups to bring more shoppers into area stores during the holiday season, and was pleased with the results. BETH EL, CT

THE TOY ROOM Happily reporting its busiest holiday season yet, this 6-year-old New England toy shop packs a lot into its 750 sq. ft. of space. Owner Kimberly Ramsey notes which toys were a hit this past Christmas: Thinking Putty from Crazy Aaron Charm It! Jewelry from High IntenCity Bacon Lip Balm from Accoutrements Gyro-Wheel from Leading Edge Novelty Name Trains from Maple Landmark Tapeffiti from Fashion Angels

Rather than any one particular big ticket item, it was the quirky, impulse buysâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;moustache lollipops, owl manicure sets, tiny rubber chickens, etc.â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that people came in looking for and that sold out quickly. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was hoping these sorts of things would be a hit, since they were new additions to the store, and they worked out perfectly,â&#x20AC;? says Ramsey.

s MARYMEYER COM Circle #143

â&#x201E;&#x2013; 118

gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302WhatsSellingid 118

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 11:49:56 AM

HOME FASHION

This past season, The Toy Room capitalized on the town’s annual holiday festivities by holding a book signing with children’s author/illustrator David Hyde Costello who drew illustrations for children to take home with them. A S T O RI A , O R

CANDLES

PURPLE COW TOYS

Calico Critters Ice Cream Truck. Intl. Playthings. 973.316.2500. www.intplay.com

Assorted puzzles from Ravensburger

BATH

Nestled in a snug, fishing town of about 10,000, this Pacific Northwest toy store stocks plenty of puzzles and games for its rainy-day season. Coowner Katie Murray reports which toys are currently creating a buzz at the register: CIRCLE #979

BODY

Wits & Wagers from North Star Games Settlers of Catan from Catan Tugboat from Green Toys

Watchover Voodoo Dolls from John Hinde USA

Purple Cow experienced a strong season, with an 11 percent increase in sales over last holiday season. While shoppers

started rolling in as early as Thanksgiving weekend, it was a girls’ night out for a local moms’ club that was an unexpected money-making event for the retailer. “We will definitely do this again next Christmas,” enthused Murray.

STATIONERY

The Marvelous Book of Magical Horses, The Most Amazing Thumb Doodles Book from Klutz

OgoDisk from OgoSport

GOURMET GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS PLAYTHINGS

Circle #118 giftsanddec.com

gda1302WhatsSellingid 119

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 119

1/23/2013 2:46:13 PM

HOME FASHION

>playthings

RICHARD GOTTLIEB is president of Richard Gottlieb & Associates LLC.

None of Your Business?

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

The industry’s top challenge: too much competition BUSINESS PHILOSOPHER, PETER DRUCKER, LOVED TO ASK TOP EXECUTIVES THIS QUESTION: “WHAT BUSINESS ARE YOU IN?” The answer to that question said a great deal about that executive’s future success or failure. Drucker also pointed out that Western Union didn’t take the invention of the telephone seriously and thought that it was in the telegraph instead of the communication business. When confronted with trucks and airplanes, Penn Central thought it was in the railroad, not the transportation, business. Kodak thought it was in the film, not the image, business until it was too late. The Play Biz It seems like such a simple question so let’s ask ourselves: What business are we in? If you think you are in the toy business: think again. You are in the business of play. I am emphasizing this point because the toy industry just finished a bad year that has followed decades of generally downward growth. The reasons given are typically short cycle problems. For example, many blame this year’s poor performance on a lack of creativity. Though a lack of creativity is a problem, there is a more fundamental concern: there are too many play options. This doesn’t become clear until you recognize that the concept of a physical toy industry is as obsolete as the aforementioned railroad and telegraph businesses. The toy industry has become just one subcategory of a larger industry of play. Gone are the days when you knew your competitors. Gone are the days when the war for success was simply about who got more shelf space—you or that other toy company. Today the threat is more existential as the entire toy department loses ground to other play categories, most of them electronic and cutting edge.

№ 120 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PLGottliebid 120

| february 2013

The Big Guys? Apple and Microsoft are as big or bigger threats than Mattel or Hasbro. Why? There’s a large percentage of play that’s mobile. Here are the categories that make up the play industry: • Video Games • Digital Play • Tablets • Apps • Theme Parks • Hobby and Craft • Mobile Devices • Toy/Candy Hybrids But that’s not all; the toy industry also competes for time. Here is a short list of time competitors: • School • Organized Children’s Sports • Books • Television • Playgrounds And lest you think that we only compete with people who supply play, think again. Anyone who works with licenses competes with everyone else who does the same. A consumer with a limited income has to decide if their child, who loves Dora the Explorer, is going to have to settle for Dora tennis shoes or a Dora game. When you think about all of this competition, it should come as no surprise that those who sell traditional toys are facing enormous headwinds in not just growing market share but maintaining it. Beat Them at the Game So what can be done? Here are a few suggestions: Accept that you are competing with a multitude of competitors for time and dollars.

2 3

Learn who your real competitors are and educate yourself about their business. Run a SWAT analysis based upon the whole community of competitors and not just those in the toy industry. Determine what makes your company unique in the midst of all of this competition. Do those who compete with you in non-traditional toy categories offer a better version of your play experience? If they do, either change what you are doing, do it better or copy the competition. Make products that fit in with a rising generation that sees all types of play as following into the same category of fun. Today’s kids don’t differentiate between digital and real. It’s all the same to them. Hire some product developers who see things the way your youngest consumers do. In other words, find creative types who see all play as seamless and can craft truly integrated, not hybrid, play products. Start visiting trade shows that might seem exotic at first glance. Make a pilgrimage to the Amusement Park, Consumer Electronics or the Playground show. Recruit talent out of college. The digital players have had a lock on creative talent that likes to work in the virtual space. What could they do with traditional toy development? The toy industry is never going away. It is, however, being slowly consumed by the play industry. Don’t you think it’s better to accept that reality sooner rather than later? •

5 6 7 8

Richard Gottlieb is president of Richard Gottlieb & Associates LLC, a provider of business development services. He has 35 years experience in the toy industry in sales and sales management. He can be reached at Richard@ usatoyexpert.com.

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 5:01:17 PM

Learn, Play and Inspire. Our ultra-soft Discovery Jungle friends are just raring to play.

Cuddle up with your

favorite Domer!

Distinctly shaped and irresistibly huggable

{ See us at The Toy Fair! Booth #6459

Untitled-2 1

Contact your DEMDACO account executive, stop by our showrooms, call us at 888.336.3226 or visit DEMDACOretailers.com 速

Atlanta

Dallas

Chicago

Las Vegas

Denver

Kansas City

}

Circle #178

12/11/2012 12:33:10 PM

HOME FASHION CANDLES BODY & BATH STATIONERY

KATHLEEN MCHUGH is president of ASTRA

Assessing Expertise Tips for gauging your business and product knowledge OWNING YOUR OWN SMALL BUSINESS CAN BE LONELY. You have countless decisions to make every day, business ideas and new product information coming at you all the time. As the boss, it may not feel comfortable or appropriate to share your worries or forward-looking plans with your staff. If you are the owner of an independent toy store, you may not have peers working alongside you who can serve as confidential sounding boards when things get rough. Access to the Best in Toy Retailing The American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) was launched 21 years ago to serve many functions for small retailers and manufacturers (e.g. convening an annual convention that has grown into Marketplace & Academy, creating tools and publications to help make members’ businesses more profitable, etc), but one of its biggest roles has always been to facilitate networking and sharing among toy store owners. ASTRA gives its members access to other members—experienced professionals who can help each other

solve business challenges. Year after year, when ASTRA asks its members which membership benefits they value over all others, it is the networking opportunities—through our discussion boards and Marketplace & Academy—that are ranked at the top of the list. This should be no surprise. ASTRA works hard to attract the most successful, most creative, and most promising independent toy retailers in the business. Share the Expertise The annual Marketplace & Academy is the year’s largest gathering of the specialty toy industry—held this year, June 16-19, in Nashville, TN—and retailers report that its value goes far beyond the product discounts and the seminars. Each year, independent retailers can also collectively vote on

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

>playthings

ASTRA Marketplace & Academy 2012 brought in 10 percent more attendees than 2011.

№ 122 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PL_Astraid 122

| february 2013

REACHING OUT ASTRA HAS MORE THAN 1,300 MEMBERS, WHICH INCLUDE: • Locally owned independent toy

and children’s products retailers

• Specialty toy manufacturers • Manufacturer’s representatives • Industry affiliates • Suppliers and service providers • Bookstores • School Supply Stores • Gift Stores

some of the Best Toys of the Year. “The relationships and the information sharing are the best part of the entire ASTRA Marketplace & Academy experience!” says Gwen Ottenberg, owner of Imagine That Toys in Wichita, KS. The American International Toy Fair is another venue for sharing expertise about the retail business and about specific products; in fact, ASTRA has institutionalized networking at Toy Fair through its popular “Share the Fair” event, which gives retailers a quick and easy way to learn from each other about promising new products. ASTRA’s online discussion groups are as a forum for getting opinions on how to handle business challenges, for asking specific how-to business questions, and for sharing information about products and manufacturers. And of course, ASTRA’s member directory is a priceless business tool that gives members access to each

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 3:13:31 PM

Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to 50 more years of making kids smile

Circle #158

Untitled-7 1

1/16/2013 4:26:45 PM

FROM THE MAKERS OF

other through telephone or email. Effective ASTRA Networking Whatever process a retailer uses to get to know her fellow ASTRA members, it’s important to understand networking as a two-way exchange. Here are a few tips for effective information sharing and networking:

F THE

O BE PART

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

>playthings

STATIONERY

• Know your objectives. If you ask someone in your network for help or information, make sure you know what you want to know. It wastes everyone’s time if you are not able to articulate what you need.

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

• Reciprocate. If you expect others to share, be ready to do so yourself. When you have received helpful advice from a colleague, always ask if there is anything you can do to help him. When

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

LICENSED COLLECTIBLE 1" FIGURES

VISIT US AT BOOTH 4817

WWW.TEENYMATES.COM WWW.PARTYANIMALINC.COM WWW.LILTEAMMATES.COM

800- 456-0145

Puppet-on-a-Stick won 2012 Best Toys for Kids’ Pretend Play and one toy shared among independent toy retailers. The ASTRA network can be powerful. “Over the years, I have increased my bottom line by thousands of dollars thanks to ASTRA and friends I have met through ASTRA,” says Jonny Girson, owner of The Learning Tree in Prairie Village, KS. Whether you have been in the business for years, or are just getting started, look to your ASTRA colleagues to have the piece of information or advice you need to get you through the tough spots. “No matter the question, our ASTRA friends

WHETHER YOU HAVE BEEN IN THE BUSINESS FOR YEARS, OR ARE JUST GETTING STARTED, LOOK TO YOUR ASTRA COLLEAGUES TO HAVE THE PIECE OF INFORMATION OR ADVICE YOU NEED TO GET YOU THROUGH THE TOUGH SPOTS. you come across information that might be useful to those in your ASTRA network—such as an article or a web link—send it to them. • Show your appreciation. If someone helps you, she can never be thanked enough—even if she is an ASTRA friend you have known for years. Be sure to acknowledge everyone who lends you a hand. And then thank them again when you have a chance.

always answer freely from their own experience,” says Mary Sisson, owner of Kazoodle Toys in Vancouver, WA. “ASTRA friends have shared valuable information we have used to build our own toy store. ASTRA has been our ‘toy store university.’” Kathleen McHugh is president of the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association, Chicago. (www.astratoy.org)

INFO@PARTYANIMALINC.COM Circle #166

№ 124 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PL_Astraid 124

| february 2013

Circle #294 giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 4:27:00 PM

Circle #179

Untitled-1 1

1/22/2013 3:21:39 PM

HOME PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>playthings

K’NEX Super Mario Cannon Building Set. $35. K’NEX. 800.543.5639. www.knex.com CIRCLE #975

Demolition Lab. $40. SmartLab Toys. 866.319.5900. www.smartlabtoys.com

Gear Up. $35. WABA Fun. 866.922.2386. www.wabafun.com CIRCLE #971

CIRCLE #972

Rebuilding the Const Move over, wooden blocks. Take a hike, plastic bricks. Construction toys are no longer a THANKS TO NEW STRIDES IN DESIGN INNOVATION, material selection and play patterns, the building toys market is currently teeming with a variety of products for all ages and skill sets, from the more traditional building blocks and rod-and-connector sets, to technology-driven kits. The reason for such diversification in this niche market is justified at the cash register. According to the NPD Group, 2012 sales in the building sets super category grew 20 percent from the previous year. But as manufacturers continue to compete for consumers’ precious dollars, keeping product fresh is critical to maintaining a strong foothold.

№ 126 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PLconstructoysfeaid 126

| february 2013

continued emphasis on helping to develop young builders’ fine-motor skills and stimulate their imagination. WABA Fun’s Superstructs line has a rod-and-connectors flexible design that is as appropriate for preschoolers as it is for more advanced builders. “Where one child might see a few dozen sticks and circles, another might see a PT Bomber or an entire solar system that can be built,” explains marketing director Jeff Oldham. While kids can build using their own ideas or by following the instructions in the WABA Fun model guide, they can also refer to the company’s Superbuilds online database. Accessible via smartphone, this free-ofcharge guide lets customers input the models they have already built. In turn, they will be supplied with additional models and step-by-step guides,

that can be made from those sets. Citiblocs too offers universal appeal with precision-cut blocks that let kids build vertically without the use of glue, snaps or complicated instructions. “The vertical position of one block may seem intimidating in the beginning, but as kids continue to build and observe that the blocks stand easily, they become more confident and build higher,” says president Marjorie Israel Chayette. Another perfect marriage of developmental and imaginative play is Tegu Blocks, which co-founder Will Haughey describes as “one part creativity and story-telling and one part problem-solving.” The addition of safely embedded magnets sets the line apart from other construction toys. “Put two north poles together, and your blocks will magically thrust

giftsanddec.com

1/24/2013 12:43:31 PM

HOME FASHION CANDLES

GIGO Block Space Adventure Mini. $16. Magnote Corp. 415.935.1147. www.magnote.com CIRCLE #974

BATH & BODY

Tegu Blocks The Four Cube Sleeve. $12. Tegu. 877.834.8869. www.tegu.com CIRCLE #976

STATIONERY

The Un-Block. $17 (16-pc. set), $71 (110-pc. set). Aha! Concepts. 312.459.9472. www.theahau.com CIRCLE #973

one-size-fits-all category. B Y

PAM E L A B R I L L

Because construction toy designers must contend with whether or not a product will be an instruction-driven kit or a set of open-ended building supplies that lets kids build however

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

PLAYTHINGS

The Great Debate

they desire, manufacturers weigh the benefits of creative vs. directed play. “I think [the different product types] appeal to vastly different skill sets,” says Youssef Azmani, sales manager of Aha! Concepts. “Directed play toys tend to have you follow Step 1 to Step 2 to complete the task at hand, whereas open-ended sets encourage imagination and creativity. With directed play, you achieve a goal where there’s a right and wrong way versus with no rules with open play.” His company’s UnBlock line of ashwood building blocks and interlocking connectors fosters three-dimensional open building. How product is perceived at retail may be to blame for this category divide, surmises Chayette of Citiblocs. “Perhaps building kits are easier to market and more recognizable on the shelf than a pile of blocks,” she

HOLIDAYS

gda1302PLconstructoysfeaid 127

to the U.S. market, offers products that foster free-form building. “None of our products use glue and instead have unique joints…allowing kids to focus on the building process,” explains owner Shinya Fujimoto. The company’s Piperoid paper robot kits require only scissors to fashion paper sticks into a robot, while its Play-Deco line lets kids make figurines by assembling wood and paper pieces. To keep these lines current, Magnote releases new styles every six months and retires older ones, rendering them collectibles.

GIFTABLES

away from one another,” he explains. The company does not provide instruction manuals; there is no right or wrong way to build. “Tegu’s system has magnetic rules that must be followed, but they enhance creativity rather than stifle it,” adds Haughey. K’NEX prides itself on strengthening a child’s developmental skills without kids even realizing it. “The simple act of snapping a rod and connector together or building a Mario figure supports fine motor skills,” notes president Michael Araten. The company prides itself on being one of the few companies that has developed a construction line based on the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) curriculum used in schools across the country. Like other more flexible designs, Magnote Corp., a relative newcomer

giftsanddec.com

GOURMET

struction Toys Category

№ 127

1/24/2013 12:43:41 PM

HOME FASHION

>playthings

Castle-Dollhouse. $55. Citiblocs. 813.769.9462. www.citiblocs.com

CANDLES

CIRCLE #977

Looking to boost your construction toy sales? Manufacturers offer up these helpful tips:

BODY

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THOSE SUPPLIER EXTRAS.

& BATH STATIONERY GOURMET GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS PLAYTHINGS

SUCCESSFUL SELLING

observes. “I don’t believe that kits are designed to appeal to a different skill set, even though they may require more complex instructions or have specific pieces that only apply to one kit. I do believe that kits may not stimulate as many skills since some kids may think there’s only one building inside a box…when, in fact, there may be multiple ways to put the pieces together, resulting in many different buildings.” To alleviate any confusion about Citiblocs’ gender focus, the company will be remarketing its line with distinct collections for girls (dollhouse, princess and castle-printed blocks) and boys (critter blocks with creepy legs, teeth and eyes) this spring. Chayette is also considering a “craft” approach in future designs that would allow children to color, add glitter, stickers or other decorations that would personalize their creations without interfering with the blocks’ building properties. Jim Becker, president of SmartLab Toys, believes that directed play misses the point of construction sets. “In today’s world of video games and apps, kids’ problem-solving skills are often only challenged on a screen in two dimensions,” he observes. “By providing three-dimensional problemsolving, kids will learn basic physical principles, such as momentum and gravity, in a profound way that can never be done on a two-dimensional

№ 128 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PLconstructoysfeaid 128

| february 2013

screen.” (In September, the company will release Demolition Lab, enabling kids ages 8 and up to create buildings and then experiment with the laws of physics and gravity as they demolish these structures using strategically placed detonators.) Haughey of Tegu also lauds the benefits of open-ended building. Scripted play, he notes, “tends to focus more on problem-solving and instruction manuals than on creativity. The more progressive schools and teachers want to see more healthy patterns of ‘selfregulation learning’ among children, and open-ended construction toys typically serve this purpose best.” Providing children with the tools they need to build, while giving them the freedom to let their imagination run wild, is, after all, the ticket to supporting creative play. To illustrate this point, Haughey poses the example of a child being presented with a particular image. “If a child is told it’s meant to be a spaceship, he will have a hard time dropping that image or building intention,” he notes. “In contrast, if he is handed a bucket of blocks, the first question to answer is ‘Do I want to do something here?’” For the child who embraces the free will to build as he chooses, he will be able to determine what exactly comes next, a process known as self-regulation. “We think it’s one of the most powerful lessons a child can learn for life,” adds Haughey. •

Companies like WABA Fun, Aha! Concepts and Magnote offer their retailers pre-built models for display. Parts are also available for store employees to assemble—“then they are intimately involved in the sets,” notes Oldham of WABA Fun—so parents can touch them and kids can play with them. “Ninety-nine percent of the time, when the customer has the opportunity to play with Un-Block, they purchase it,” adds Azmani of Aha! Concepts. MAKE A COMMITMENT.

“Presentation matters as much as price point,” says K’NEX’s Araten. “Avoid the urge to cherry pick a few items; commit to making a statement with the product lines that best meet your customers’ interests.” INVEST IN THE ENTIRE LINE.

If space permits, allow your customers to see just how much they can build within a particular brand. “If consumers don’t understand that they can grow their collection…with big and small purchases, they’ll treat the item like a one-off and may be bound to the question, “Well, what can you do with it?,” says Haughey of Tegu. “If retailers are successful, they should be hearing things from their customers like ‘I got the block set, now I want the wheels’.” EDUCATE, THEN DEMONSTRATE.

Teaching your staff how to use building blocks and kits is just as important as setting up an attractive display. “Many retailers fail to adequately learn their products’ selling points…because they don’t want to sacriﬁce a box of blocks for demonstration that could otherwise be sold for revenue,” points out Haughey. One of Tegu’s most successful specialty accounts happens to be at a neighborhood coffee shop with magnetic tables. “A bucket of blocks is in the middle of a communal table for kiddos and parents to use while Mom is sipping on a cappuccino,” he adds.—PB

giftsanddec.com

1/24/2013 12:43:50 PM

Circle #126

Untitled-5 1

1/21/2013 12:44:44 PM

a Ooga Booga is a memory game where players memorize and recite a chain of ancient words and gestures. 50 cards in travel tin. 3-6 players, ages 7+. Blue Orange Games. 415.252.0372. www.blueorangegames.com

FASHION

HOME

>playthings

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

CIRCLE #958

Game Time! Games are not only fun, many also are almost ageless. They also help kids develop other important skills: critical thinking, cooperation and competition.

c Tangoes Brainiac Edition includes two sets of playing pieces, green and red, and provides dozens of new puzzles and solutions. Ages 7 and up. $9.99. Smart Toys and Games. 800.542.6375. www.smarttangoes.com

GIFTABLES

CIRCLE #961

MORE ON TREND

b Zingo! is an educational sight word game to help tots learn to read . Pre-K–1. $19.99. ThinkFun. 703.549.4999. www.thinkfun.com

HOLIDAYS

CIRCLE #960

d Farkle Around combines dice with cards for a new take on a favorite game of skill and luck. Patch Products. 608.362.6896. www.patchproducts.com CIRCLE #959

PLAYTHINGS

ALL PRICES RETAIL

№ 130 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PLgamesid 130

| february 2013

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 2:45:45 PM

An essential ingredient to every toybox, every childhood, every generation. See more puppets at www.folkmanis.com 0r call 1-800-654-8922 for a free catalog. Toy Fair booth 2837 Javits Center

Circle #133

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 4:19:21 PM

HOME &

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>playthings

a Giraffes, one of 25 new designs in the YooHoo & Friends line, are 5” and make a secret sound when squeezed. $9. Aurora. 888.287.6722. www.auroragift.com

Playful Plush Soft and cuddly, plush is always a strong selling category. Today’s plush ranges from realistic to imaginative, from decorative to practical, and from collectible to playful.

MORE ON TREND

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

CIRCLE #966

b Sweet & Sassy Owl is sweetly pink.12”. Wild Republic. 800.800.9678. www.wildrepublic.com

c Itty Bitty Jogging Suit Boo is a pocketsized 4” of plush pup. $12. Gund. 800.448.GUND. www.gund.com

d Domers Giraffe is part of a collection of distinctly shaped characters. Also comes in Owl, Panda, Pig, Cow, Elephant, Alligator and Monkey. 10”. $12. Nat & Jules by Demdaco. 888.336.3226. www.DEMDACOretailers.com

CIRCLE #963

CIRCLE #968

CIRCLE #962

№ 132 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PLplushid 132

| february 2013

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 11:51:22 AM

HOME FASHION CANDLES BATH & BODY STATIONERY

f Team Mates collection e Monkey in Barrel is a plush puppet in a

CIRCLE #970

GOURMET

microfiber barrel. Barrel lid closes when the monkey is pulled down. $23.99. Folkmanis. 800.654.8922. www.folkmanis.com

of sporty plush ball character backpacks includes a baseball, basketball and football. $29.99. Laid Back Kids, div. of Oak Patch Gifts. 800.824.2374. www.oakpatchgifts.com CIRCLE #967

GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS

h Pizazz Elephant is 18”. $28. Bestever. 800.767.3060. www.besteverinc.com

CIRCLE #969

CIRCLE #964

CIRCLE #965

giftsanddec.com

gda1302PLplushid 133

PLAYTHINGS

Douglas Company. 800.992.9002. www.douglastoys.com

i Batty is new to the Squishable Creatures line. 15”. $42. Squishable.com. 800.490.9784. www.squishable.com/s/wholesale

g Pauline Spotted Pig is 13”. $24.99.

ALL PRICES RETAIL

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 133

1/23/2013 11:51:37 AM

HOME BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>playthings

BATH

a Musical Library is a piano-shaped electronic book with more than100 words and phrases and 20 songs. 1 year and older. $26.99. Small World Toys. 800.421.4153. www.smallworldtoys.com

STATIONERY

CIRCLE #829

Music to the Ears

GOURMET

When it comes to play, music crosses into multiple categories—from toys and play sets, fashion and accessories and the in-store CD section.

MORE ON TREND

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

b Bill Harley and Keith Munslow bring a mix of wacky songs like “Stinkeye” to debut It’s Not Fair to Me. $12. New Sound Music. 800.288.2007. www.newsoundmusic.com

c Owl Musical Purse plays Katrina and the Waves’ hit, “Walking on Sunshine.” $35. San Francisco Music Box Company. 800.426.1823. www.sanfranciscomusicbox.com

CIRCLE #830

CIRCLE #831 ALL PRICES RETAIL

Circle #115

№ 134 gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302PLmusicid 134

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 3:10:18 PM

Circle #114

Untitled-7 1

1/16/2013 4:15:02 PM

HOME

OVER 50 NEW PRODUCTS FOR 2013!

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

>playthings

BATH

a Number Train can help kids learn 1 through 10 with numbered bricks; also includes child and dog figures, wagon bases and more. $19.99. Lego. 800.838.9647. www.lego.com CIRCLE #832

STATIONERY

Getting on Track

GOURMET

Trains are timeless. These newer options are colorful, have some familiar characters and hours of play time.

GIFTABLES

b Thomas Wooden Railway Deluxe Roundhouse includes a round-about action turntable. $129.99. Mattel. 800.524.8697. www.mattel.com CIRCLE #833

Freight, Deals, and FREE Merchandising and Play Day Materials

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

Ask about our Discounts,

c Dino Express is a snap-together train track course; can be mixed and matched with other animal sets in the line. $15. Wild Republic. 800.800.9678. www.wildrepublic.com CIRCLE #834 ALL PRICES RETAIL

Circle #165

â&#x201E;&#x2013; 136 gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302PLtrainsid 136

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 3:10:42 PM

Circle #116

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 4:22:18 PM

FASHION

HOME

April 8-9

>playthings

CANDLES

Riding On

a Bouncy Buggy is avail-

Spring Market April 8-9, 2013 Running concurrently with

able in three colors (pink, blue and red). Measures 12”x19”. For ages 18 mos. to 3 years. $34.99. Schylling. 78.948.3601. www.schylling.com CIRCLE #802

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

Experience the Fun of the Find

Fun, colorful ride-on toys can provide endless fun indoors and out. A collection of rideons can be a fun addition to any plane, train or auto section and will appeal to girls and boys.

b Raffy the Bunny is made in Italy and is available in lime or pink. $50. Toy Marketing Intl. 800.496.6427. www.gymnicballs.com

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

CIRCLE #803

d Easy Turn Coupe features a key twist ignition, opening gas cap, a working hood with storage holders for drinks and treats. Comes in green and pink. $59.99. Step2. 800.347.8372. www.step2.com The Merchandise Mart | Chicago shopchicagomarket.com

CIRCLE #804 ALL PRICES RETAIL

Circle #146

№ 138 gifts and decorative accessories | february 2013

gda1302PLrideonid 138

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 3:11:07 PM

HOME

>playthings

FASHION

a Threadz beanie kit

CANDLES

includes colorful yarns and easy directions. Takes 2 hours to make. Also available in scarf and purse. PlaSmart Toys. 877.289.0730. www.plasmarttoys.com CIRCLE #806

BATH & BODY

Rack and stack our 3D backpacks built for kids of all ages.

STATIONERY

DIY Play If they build it, they will play—whether it’s fashion, accessories for school or a play house (or kitchen). Doit-yourself (DIY) sets can offer up hours of play and spark kids’ imagination.

GOURMET

blok™

bubble™

GIFTABLES

later-gator™ b Love Denim is one of

HOLIDAYS

the customizable slipon covers with bling for school notebooks and binders . $12.99. Book Blingz. 888.909.8353. www.bookblingz.com

spiketus rex™ ledlox™

CIRCLE #807

602-795-8225 madpax.com | orders@madpax.com

half café and can be customized with markers. $34.99. Box Creations. 203.292.6280. www.boxcreations.com CIRCLE # 805

ALL PRICES RETAIL

DĞŶƟŽŶ ƉƌŽŵŽ ĐŽĚĞ DWϬϭϭϯ ĂŶĚ ƌĞĐĞŝǀĞ Ă ŐŽůĚĞŶ ŶƵŐŐĞƚ ŽĨ DĂĚWĂǆ ŐŽŽĚŶĞƐƐ͊

PLAYTHINGS

Call MadPax

c Kitchen Café is half kitchen and

Circle #181 giftsanddec.com

gda1302PLdiyid 139

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 139

1/23/2013 3:11:36 PM

The Three E’s of Brilliant Sky

FASHION

HOME

>playthings PLAYFUL RETAILER

CANDLES

Enrichment, Enlightenment and Enjoyment. BY MILLIE SZERMAN

Brent and Sonia maintain con-

BATH

“Our job is to create a positive experience for every customer who comes in the door. Sometimes that positive experience includes selling them something, and sometimes it doesn’t…but, if the experience is positive, they’ll come back again,” says Brent Taylor.

GOURMET

A SIMPLE PHILOSO PHY

STATIONERY

BODY

stant vigilance on the store’s success. Their children have always played a role, growing from toy testers to part-time employees.

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

STEPPING INSIDE THE BRILLIANT SKY TOYS & BOOKS STORE, nestled in 5,700 sq. ft. of space in Okemos, MI, one immediately notices something different: an unparalleled spectrum of some of the most developmentally sound playthings on the market. Basking in a decade of success, owner/operator Brent Taylor explains, “Our sole mission is not just to satisfy our customers but to delight them. We are dedicated to helping

every visitor find their way to play!” Taylor, a former manager in corporate logistics for a Fortune 500 company, with his wife, Sonia, a registered nurse, had moved to Tennessee in the late ’90s. Although they loved their surroundings, and had begun raising their family there, the pull to return to their Michigan roots was strong. “I was seeking a career change and hitting a lot of dead ends, when my wife called one day and said, ‘I know what we should do…we should open a

toy store!’ Neither of us had any retail experience, but as parents of young children, we realized there was a need and a viable business opportunity lay ahead. At the same time, we were dealing with my youngest son’s health issues. The combination of this great idea and the significant life change with our Simon led us to the realization that there are more important things in life.” Coming up with the store’s name was another matter. According

WHAT’S ON T H E S H E L F

MELISSA & DOUG

⁄*⁄

LOOPDEDOO BY ANN WILLIAMS

№ 140 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PL_PlayfulRetlrid 140

⁄*⁄

| february 2013

CALISSON

⁄*⁄

GUND

⁄*⁄

INTERNATIONAL PLAYTHINGS

⁄*⁄

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 11:56:43 AM

HOME FASHION CANDLES BATH & BODY GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS

A GROWING FRANCHISE Brilliant Sky Toys & Books is more than just an exceptional retail concept— it’s also a growing national brand. The store’s success has reached far and wide, and early on, the Taylors were encouraged to open additional locations. Careful not to spread themselves too thin or sacrifice their family life by doing too much, they were also aware that they had developed a winning formula that could work in almost any community. Franchising was a way to find likeminded people who shared their vision, and today, Brilliant Sky Toys & Books, under independently owned franchises has expanded to 15 locations, from Denver to Wilmington, NC, and everywhere in-between. There are plans to add three to five more stores this year.

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

PLAYTHINGS

gda1302PL_PlayfulRetlrid 141

“Play is about more than toys,” considers Taylor. “It’s about games, puzzles, dolls, crafts, experiments, puppets, books, construction, magic, dress-up, kites, trains, role-play, plush, ride-ons, musical instruments, and much, much more.” At Brilliant Sky Toys & Books, the breadth of the selection is simply unmatched. With more than 10,000 high quality specialty products, all assembled in one easy-to-explore atmosphere, Brilliant Sky Toys & Books has put in the time and done the homework to establish partnerships with more than 600 toy manufacturers from around the world. One last piece of advice from Brent Taylor is simply this: “What you do to draw customers into your store is important, but what you do once they’re there is far more important.” •

GOURMET

giftsanddec.com

than 10 years,” notes Taylor, “[Story Hour] has become an institution.” Although the company maintains an Internet presence with its website, Facebook, Twitter and more, Taylor still believes “the best way to maintain a customer base is to create that positive experience every time they come into the store!” As with most retailers across the country, the economy and the “big box” retailers have had some impact on Brilliant Sky’s bottom line. However, according to Taylor, “The economy hasn’t done us any favors, but if you have a good concept and do things right, there is always success to be had. As far as the big box stores go, we don’t consider them our competitors. They don’t do what we do, and people don’t go there for the same reasons they come to us.”

STATIONERY

to Taylor, “Much like the process of parents picking a name when they’re expecting, Sonia and I threw ideas back and forth. We had narrowed the list down to four or five favorites. Asking a few friends to pick one ushered Brilliant Sky as a clear choice.” It took the Taylors less than 10 months from Sonia’s revelation to their grand opening in 2002; within three years, sales revenue placed them in the top 1 percent of toy stores nationwide. How? Based on the belief that the right playthings give children a gateway to physical, emotional and cognitive development, Brilliant Sky Toys & Books provides the highest quality products in an atmosphere that is both active and interactive. Its aesthetic approach is vibrant yet warm, exciting yet comforting and exploratory yet safe. Sonia, along with several staff members take care of merchandising the store with the view that it should be easy for people to shop. Promotional events are also a part of Brilliant Sky’s customer service. Although over the years, they have tried different types of events, and two have become absolute traditions: Friday Story Hour and the annual one-day Anniversary event. “We have the most amazing story teller who’s been with us for more

№ 141

1/23/2013 11:56:53 AM

HOME FASHION

Early Learning Youngsters may think they are playing, but these toys help develop early learning skills: shape recognition, colors, hand-eye coordination and size differentiation. b Pounding Shape Bench is made of wood and comes with a soft wooden hammer. For ages 12+ mos. $19.99. Blue Box Toys. 973.740.8882. www.blueboxtoys.com

BODY

CANDLES

>playthings

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

CIRCLE #957

GIFTABLES

c My First Shape Sorter is eco-friendly, made of 100% recycled plastic milk jugs. Comes with eight colorful shapes, two each of stars, circles, squares and triangles. Made in U.S.A. Sorter, 8” diameter. For ages 6 mos. and up. $19.99. Green Toys. 415.839.9971. www.greentoys.com

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

CIRCLE #956

a Smart Fellow Pegging Game has three levels of difficulty to grow with the child. Ages 18+ mos. $45.50. Haba. 800.468.6873. www.HABAusa.com CIRCLE #955

d Shape Stack is a stacking game of shaped pieces for two players. 8 pcs. Ages 3+. $6. Manhattan Toy. 800.541.1345. www.manhattantoy.com CIRCLE #954 ALL PRICES RETAIL

№ 142 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302PLshapesid 142

| february 2013

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 5:21:12 PM

HOME

product profile

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

FASHION CANDLES BATH

MARY MEYER

| 858-487-8641 @ www.gymnicballs.com # circle #495

| 800-451-4387 @ www.marymeyer.com @ www.standforthesilent.org # circle #496

STATIONERY

Made in Italy, the Gymnic Line’s NEW Rody Jr. is a favorite with children for imaginative and creative play. Made of heavy-duty, latex-free vinyl and is phthalate free. Surface washable with soap and water. Available in 3 colors (Light Yellow, Light Pink and Light Blue). For ages 3 and up, with adult supervision.

Help Stop Bullying! Mary Meyer is donating 10% of ikimono profits to “Stand for the Silent,” a grass roots organization dedicated to making bullying a thing of the past. Five critters in two sizes, 6.5" and 9".

BODY

Rody Jr.

Ikimono

TMI TOYMARKETING INTL, INC.

GOURMET

MARY MEYER

Oball Shaker

GIFTABLES

This new 6" toy is perfect for the smallest hands. Colorful beads provide visual stimulation as they rattle inside. Oball ends are soft and durable. Does not contain BPA, PVC, latex or phthalates.

| 800-451-4387 @ www.marymeyer.com # circle #498

HOLIDAYS

FIESTA TOY MONKEEZ™

Monkeez Makes a Difference

| 866-445-9993 @ www.mvpbrands.com # circle #497

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-5 1

Chica is everyone’s favorite chicken. Now available as an adorable plush, squeeze her tummy and she squeaks!

| 323-581-9988 @ www.fiestatoy.com # circle #499

PLAYTHINGS

Kids Make a Difference! Genuine Monkeez and Friends characters will brighten your day and teach you the message to think of others before yourself! Collect them all!

Chica

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 143

1/21/2013 12:58:11 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

SAFARI LTD.® BANANAGRAMS, INC.

Wings of the World Blue Budgie

BATH

Invite one of the world’s most beloved birds into your home for 2013 with the NEW Safari Ltd® Blue Budgie.

STATIONERY

| 800-554-5414 @ www.safariltd.com # circle #500

BANANAGRAMS® The anagram game that will drive you bananas! Go bananas making crossword grids in a race to the finish! 1-8 Players. Ages 7+

| 401-781-9649 @ www.bananagrams.com # circle #501

FIESTA TOY

Owl GOURMET

Make a fashion statement with these girly pink glittery owls. Accessorize your outfit on the go with a purse, handbag, backpack or trolley. They come in every style a glamour girl would want.

GIFTABLES

| 323-581-9988 @ www.fiestatoy.com # circle #502

AURORA WORLD INC.

HOLIDAYS

Gumdrops™

PLAYTHINGS

"Eye'm sweet, you're sweet, we're all sweet!" Introducing Aurora's all-new Gumdrops, featuring 12 fun and trendy characters named after the tastiest treats. Each character includes a custom hang tag and features signature glasses, big eyes and soft, shiny materials.

| 562-205-1222 @ www.auroragift.com # circle #503

№ 144 gifts and decorative accessories

Untitled-5 1

| february 2013

AURORA WORLD INC.

Pop Up Puppets A fun way to stimulate your child's imagination and help them develop their learning and creative skills. Pop Up Puppets are available in 7 styles: Tiger, Black Bear, Lesser Panda, Owl, Raccoon, Giraffe and Panda.

| 562-205-1222 @ www.auroragift.com # circle #504

giftsanddec.com

1/21/2013 12:58:28 PM

HOME

product profile

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

FASHION CANDLES BATH

FOLKMANIS, INC.

PARTY ANIMAL TOYS

TeenyMates The hot new NFL licensed 1" tall mini-collectibles. Ages 4 and up. Each pack contains 2 random quarterbacks and 2 puzzle pieces! SRP: $3.99.

Prized for their lustrous, warm fleece, Alpacas grow their long wooly coats to withstand the crisp mountain air. The Folkmanis ALPACA Puppet is as soft and gentle as a Peruvian flower. MSRP $43.99.

STATIONERY

| 800-456-0145 @ www.partyanimalinc.com # circle #505

BODY

Alpaca

| 800-654-8922 @ www.folkmanis.com # circle #506

GOURMET

SAFARI LTD.®

Wild Safari® Humpback Whale

GIFTABLES

Leap and splash in the ocean realms with this new, hand-painted Humpback Whale from Safari Ltd®!

| 800-554-5414 @ www.safariltd.com # circle #507

FOLKMANIS, INC.

| 800-654-8922 @ www.folkmanis.com # circle #508

| 562-205-1222 @ www.auroragift.com # circle #509

PLAYTHINGS

Nestled in your arms, the soulful eyes of this charming BABY SEA OTTER puppet will bring out your nurturing instincts. This playful puppet is flexible and easy to animate. MSRP $17.99.

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-5 1

Miyoni™ Fine quality, detailing and soft to the touch, this line captures the beauty of nature, featuring popular domestic and jungle animals. The line expands in 2013 with new animals including the release of realistic and naturally sweet "tots". Each highlights the endearing looks of younger animals.

Baby Sea Otter

HOLIDAYS

AURORA WORLD INC.

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 145

1/21/2013 12:58:58 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

FOLKMANIS, INC.

BATH

Leopard Shark

Dino Dan Fuel your imagination by exploring the World of Dino Dan. Fiesta has 4 different dinosaurs straight from the show.

This shark puppet is sporting a rich fantasy leopard jacquardthe perfect accessory to your decor or wardrobe! His teeth are soft vinyl, so even if he catches you, you'll feel no pain from this sleek but chic LEOPARD SHARK puppet. MSRP $27.99.

STATIONERY

FIESTA TOY

| 323-581-9988 @ www.fiestatoy.com # circle #510

| 800-654-8922 @ www.folkmanis.com # circle #511

FIESTA TOY

GOURMET

Big Eyes Big Eyes look straight into your heart. Soft, huggable and loveable. They come in all your favorite animals.

GIFTABLES

| 323-581-9988 @ www.fiestatoy.com # circle #512

HOLIDAYS

SMALL WORLD TOYS

PLAYTHINGS

Sparky the Dog

â&#x201E;&#x2013; 146 gifts and decorative accessories

Untitled-5 1

Just press the star on this lovable puppy and the interactive play begins. Sparky has 44 phrases, plays 3 songs plus 8 amusing interludes. Play and learn about animals, numbers, alphabet, parts of the body and much more! The fun never ends!

Goof Ballz

| 800-421-4153 @ www.smallworldtoys.com # circle #513

| 866-445-9993 @ www.mvpbrands.com # circle #514

| february 2013

GOOF BALLZ

Toss them! Collect them! Have a ball!!! Goof Ballz are on a roll...and are the hottest item in plush toys!

giftsanddec.com

1/21/2013 12:59:36 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

HOME

product profile

FASHION CANDLES BATH

SAFARI LTD.®

Dragons Designer TOOB®

Push Pull Toys

BODY

| 800-554-5414 @ www.safariltd.com # circle #515

HAPE

The mythical Safari Ltd® Dragons join together in this new, enchanting Dragons Designer TOOB® featuring six vibrant miniature figures.

STATIONERY

Toddlers can push and pull these brightly colored wheeled jungle animals made of FSC-certified wood. Available with this eyecatching display of 4 assorted styles. Ages 12 months and up. MSRP: $9.99.

| 800-661-4142 @ www.hapetoys.com # circle #516 BANANAGRAMS, INC.

GOURMET

Appletters® Newly Improved! The core of fun and learning. Take your turn to build a word worm. 1- 4 Players. Ages 5+

Sticky Mosaics® Princess Palace Treasure Box

WIKKI STIX

The most creative Easter eggs ever! Perfect for both real and plastic eggs; no glue needed. Made in the USA.

| 800-869-4554 @ www.wikkistix.com # circle #519

PLAYTHINGS

Decorate and stack a towering Princess Palace Treasure Box. Follow a simple numbered legend and mosaic 3 beautiful boxes, which can be used individually or together. Stick over 575 jewels to accentuate the detailed and whimsical fairytale motif.

HOLIDAYS

THE ORB FACTORY

GIFTABLES

| 401-781-9649 @ www.bananagrams.com # circle #518

| 800-741-0089 @ www.orbfactory.com # circle #517

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-5 1

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 147

1/21/2013 12:59:52 PM

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

CANDLES

FASHION

HOME

product profile

BODY

BANANAGRAMS, INC.

BATH

ZIP-IT

Wild Safari® Diabloceratops

The high-speed word race you can play any place! Be the first to zip to 10, then race all over again! 2 Players. Ages 7+

Fend off the likes of the Tyrannosaurus Rex with the fearsome horns on the NEW Diabloceratops from Safari Ltd®!

| 401-781-9649 @ www.bananagrams.com # circle #520

STATIONERY

SAFARI LTD.®

| 800-554-5414 @ www.safariltd.com # circle #521

AFRICAN AMERICAN EXPRESSIONS

Black History Jigsaw Puzzle

GOURMET

500 pieces, 18" x 24". Price: $14.95. Puzzles available in 7 other designs.

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

| 800-684-1555 @ www.black-gifts.com # circle #522

DREAM INTERNATIONAL HAPE

Rilakkuma Rilakkuma is a bear who enjoys laying lazily. Won’t you live in ease every day? Let’s take it a step at a time.

PLAYTHINGS

| 714-521-6007 @ www.dreamiusa.com # circle #523

№ 148 gifts and decorative accessories

Untitled-5 1

Qubes Qubes are quick, quality gifts made of FSC-certified wood. Available with this eye-catching display of 7 assorted styles. Ages 12 months and up. MSRP: $9.99.

| 800-661-4142 @ www.hapetoys.com # circle #524

| february 2013

giftsanddec.com

1/21/2013 1:00:27 PM

HOME

product profile

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION TO GIFTS AND DECORATIVE ACCESSORIES

FASHION CANDLES BATH

SAFARI LTD.®

BANANAGRAMS, INC.

Incredible Creatures® Flying Fish

Connect fruit ... instead of dots! A fresh, fruity and colorful twist to the classic game of dominoes! 2-4 Players. Ages 5+

BODY

| 800-554-5414 @ www.safariltd.com # circle #525

FRUITOMINOES®

Freeze time with the Safari Ltd® Flying Fish and study the miraculous, torpedo-shaped body before it flies from your hands!

STATIONERY

| 401-781-9649 @ www.bananagrams.com # circle #526

BANANAGRAMS, INC.

PAIRSinPEARS®

GOURMET

Newly Improved! Word play fun for all ages and stages! Packed with 8 fun and educational exercises + 2 competitive word games. 2-4 Players. Ages 3+

GIFTABLES

| 401-781-9649 @ www.bananagrams.com # circle #528

HOLIDAYS

BLUE ORANGE GAMES

Flash FIESTA TOY

Walk Your Petz

| 323-581-9988 @ www.fiestatoy.com # circle #527

giftsanddec.com

Untitled-5 1

| 415-252-0372 @ www.blueorangegames.com # circle #529

february 2013 |

PLAYTHINGS

Walk Your Petz is your new best friend. These cute little animals come in natural and hot pink colors.

Watch the sparks fly in this lightningfast dice dash! Race to complete eight combinations and rack up the most points to win. Ages 7 – Adult. 2-6 players.

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 149

1/21/2013 1:00:46 PM

HOME FASHION

>show

preview

MARCH MARKETS

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

MARCH | 2013

Chicago

Boston Convention & Exhibition Center

Show Producer: Northeast Marketcenter Show Hours: 9:30 a.m–5:30 p.m. Hotel Arrangements: Visit www.northeastmarketcenter.com/buyers/travelhotel/for listings and links to area hotels and discount information.

INTERNATIONAL HOME & HOUSEWARES SHOW March 2-5 McCormick Place 847.692.0100 www.housewares.org Show Producer: International Housewares Assn. Show Hours: March 2, 10-5:30 p.m.; March 3-4, 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. March 5, 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Travel Arrangements: OnPeak, 800.752.1052, housewares@onpeakevents.com or www.housewares.org Special Events • Monday Night Reception. March 4. 5:307:30 p.m. S406a, Vista Ballroom • Housewares Charity Foundation Gala Evening. Fundraising for critical causes & honoring industry leaders. Monday, March 4. 6-10 p.m. Hilton Chicago. • Industry Breakfast. IHA annual meeting and guest speaker. Tuesday, March 5. 7:15 a.m. S100, Grand Ballroom SEMINARS Of the extensive selection of programming and demonstrations, here’s a select listing. Go to www.housewares.org for the full selection. Sunday, March 3 • The American Living Survey: Kitchen Design Trends. 10:30 a.m. Lakeside Innovation Theater, E350 • The New American Craft: A New Landscape for Manufacturing. 3:30 p.m. Lakeside Innovation Theater, E350

№ 150 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302Mkt_ShowPreviewsid 150

| february 2013

800.435.2775 www.northeastmarketcenter.com

Monday, March 4 • Staying Relevant to the Unpredictable Consumer. Speaker: Tom Mirabile, 7:30 a.m. S100, Grand Ballroom • 10 Rules for Selling to Millennials in Today's Economy. 10:30 a.m. Lakeside Innovation Theater, E350 • Style, Substance and Color: Major Trends and Direction. Noon. Speaker: Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone Color Institute. S100, Grand Ballroom Tuesday, March 5 • The Six Consumer Trends That Will Impact Your Business in 2013 and Beyond. 9:30 a.m. Lakeside Innovation Theater, E350 • The Color of the Year: Where Does it Come From? Noon. Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone Color Institute. S100, Grand Ballroom

BOSTON GIFT SHOW March 17-20 Boston Convention & Exhibition Ctr. (BCEC) 678.370.0332 www.bostongiftshow.com Show Producer: Urban Expositions Show Hours: March 17-20, 9:30 a.m.– 5:30 p.m. March 21, 9:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Hotel Arrangements: Connections, 800.262.9974 or www.giftshowhotels.com SEMINARS Sunday, March 17 • How To Use The Three Titans of Social Media To Increase Your Sales. 2 p.m. Monday, March 18 • Reaching Today's Tech-minded Consumers. 11 a.m. • Dazzling Displays—How To Really Engage Your Customers. 2 p.m.

LOOK FOR: Discover Design Gallery exhibit on the show ﬂoor showcasing inspired product design.

Las Vegas

Boston

TOYFEST WEST March 10-13 South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa www.toyfestwest.com

SPRING PREVIEW March 3-5 Northeast Marketcenter

Show Producer: WTHRA (Western Toy & Hobby Representatives Association)

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 4:25:42 PM

Circle #177

Untitled-1 1

1/22/2013 4:26:28 PM

HOME FASHION CANDLES BODY & BATH STATIONERY GOURMET GIFTABLES HOLIDAYS PLAYTHINGS

>show

Preview

Show Hours: March 10, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; March 11-12, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; March 13, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Hotel Arrangements: Call 702.796.7111 and use Group Code: WTH0305. Special Events: • PlayWest Gala Reception. March 10. 6:30-9 p.m. Includes ceremony inducting Rich Brady, Kathleen Milne and Bill and Nancy Smith, owners of Toysmith, and 2013 Retailer of the Year, Geppetto’s, La Jolla, CA, into the Hall of Fame. • ToyFest Game Night. March 11. 6:309:30 p.m. Meet manufacturers and learn about new board games through roundtable play. Refreshments and prizes. • “Best of the Fest” by ASTRA. March 12. 8-9 a.m. What keeps play hot for 2013.

Tuesday, March 19 • How to Capitalize on the Buy Local Movement to Increase Trafﬁc, Customers & Sales in Your Store. 9 a.m. • Social Media Marketing Made Simple. 10:30 a.m. • Explode Your Sales—Marketing Ideas That Are So Simple and Effective It Will Blow Your Mind! Noon. • Online Selling is Changing Rapidly—Are You Prepared? 1:30 p.m. • Best Practice ECommerce: Growing and Automating Your Business Online. 3 p.m.

Dynasty Gallery

Show Producer: ASD Show Hours: March 17-19, 9 a.m.6 p.m.; March 20, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Hotel Arrangements: Visit www. asdonline.com/lv and click on the Hotel & Travel tab to book a hotel either within walking distance of the convention center or on a shuttle route. SEMINARS All seminars are held at LVCC, South Hall Room S224 Monday, March 18 • Relationship Marketing for Results. 9 a.m. • Technology and the Balance of Power Between Retailers and Consumers. 10:30 a.m. • Grow Your Business. Noon. • What You Need to Know About Sourcing Returned, Overstock, and Refurbished Items Online. 1:30 p.m. • Growing Your Business Online in 2013 Using Different Online Marketing Channels. 3 p.m.

gda1302Mkt_ShowPreviewsid 152

Many new showrooms debuted at the recent Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market. For more showroom pictures, visit https://www.facebook.com/ giftsanddecmag.

Dallas Market Center

ASDLV March 17-20 Las Vegas Convention Ctr. Sands Expo Ctr. 800.421.4511 www.asdonline.com/lv

№ 152 gifts and decorative accessories

NEW SHOWROOMS OPENED

| february 2013

Dallas PBJ (BABY GIFTS AND GADGETS) March 21-22 DALLAS KIDSWORLD MARKET March 18-21 Dallas Market Center www.dallasmarketcenter.com/pbj www.dallasmarketcenter.com Show Producer: Dallas Market Center Show Hours: PBJ: March 21-22, 10, 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; KidsWorld: March 18-20, 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; March 21, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Hotel Arrangements: Contact Market Travel at 214.744.7444; email markettravel@mcmcmail.com or visit www. dallasmarketcenter.com/hotelandtravel/ Market Highlights: 200,000 sq. ft. on the 8th ﬂoor of the WTC will be ﬁlled with children's products including apparel, toys, accessories, textiles, furniture, bedding, books and education gifts. There will be related special events, educational opportunities and visual displays to inspire.

Byers Choice

Pavilion Gift

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 4:25:52 PM

Circle #128

Untitled-1 1

1/17/2013 9:12:19 AM

HOME FASHION

>calendar NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

MARCH | APRIL | 2013

www.thecolumbusmarketplace.com

March NATIONAL ALBUQUERQUE • Natl. Fiery Foods Show ....................1-3

• Offinger’s Marketplace ...................... 16

LOS ANGELES • Spring Gift and Home Mkt. .......... 17-19

Ohio Expo Ctr., Celeste Ctr. 888.878.GIFT www.offingersmarketplaces.com

L.A. Mart 800.LAMART-4 www.lamart.com • Gift & Home Market at CMC ....... 10-14

Sandia Resort and Casino 505.873.8680 www.fieryfoodsshow.com

DALLAS • Kidsworld Market ........................... 18-21 • PBJ Play.Baby.Juvenile ................ 21-22 • Total Home & Gift Mkt./Apparel & Accessories........................................ 21-24

ATLANTA • Atlanta Spring Gift, Accessories & Holiday Mkt. ....................................... 15-17

Dallas Mkt. Ctr. 800.DAL.MKTS www.dallasmarketcenter.com

AmericasMart 800.ATL.MART www.americasmart.com

GATLINBURG, TN • Gatlinburg Apparel & Jewelry Mkt. 2-4 • Norton’s Gatlinburg Gift & Variety 2-4

BOSTON • Spring Preview ..................................3-5

Northeast Market Center, Hudson, MA 800.435.2775 www.northeastmarketcenter.com

Gatlinburg Convention Ctr. 865.436.6151 www.nortonshows.com

California Market Center 213.630.3600 www.californiamarketcenter.com MADISON, WI • The Buyers Cash & Carry Show .......27

Alliant Energy Ctr. 717.796.2377 www.marketsquareshows.com MINNEAPOLIS • Minneapolis Gift, Home & Accessory Show with Temps .............................. 15-19

Gift Mart, Minnetonka, MN 800.626.1298 www.mplsmart.com

• Boston Gift Show .......................... 17-20

KANSAS CITY, KS • Gift Market of Kansas City ........... 15-18

Boston Convention and Exhibition Center 678.285.3976 www.bostongiftshow.com

Metcalf South Mall 913.687.8059 www.giftmartofkansascity.com

CHICAGO • Intl. Home & Housewares Show ..... 2-5

LANSING, MI • Lansing Gift Show .............................3-5

McCormick Place 847.292.4200 www.housewares.org

Lansing Center 231.526.1270 www.lansinggiftshow.com

COLUMBUS, OH • The Heritage Cash & Carry Mkt. ...... 15

LAS VEGAS • ASDLV .............................................. 17-20

Aladdin Shrine Complex 717.249.9404 www.heritagemarkets.com

Las Vegas Convention Ctr./Sands Expo Ctr. 800.421.4511 www.asdonline.com/lv

• Columbus MarketPlace Show...... 15-19 • Columbus MarketPlace Temps .... 15-18

• Toyfest West....................................10-13

ORLANDO • GTS Jewelry & Access. Expo ..... 23-25

South Point Hotel Exhibit Hall 909.899.3753 www.toyfestwest.com

Osceola Heritage Park Exhibition Hall 770.410.9771 www.gtshows.com

Columbus MarketPlace 888.332.8979

№ 154 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302Calendarid 154

| february 2013

NEW YORK • NY Home Fashions Mkt. Week .... 18-21

7 West 34th St. 212.279.6063 www.7wnewyork.com 230 Fifth Ave. 800.698.5617 www.230FifthAve.com OCEAN CITY, MD • Mid Atlantic Gift Show ..................12-14

Roland E. Powell Convention Center 410.352.3382 www.midatlanticgs.com

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 3:16:01 PM

HOME

Greater Philadelphia Expo Ctr., Oaks, PA 800.210.9900 www.sugarloafcrafts.com

The Park 704.365.4152 www.charlottegiftshow.com

PORTLAND, ME • New England Made Giftware & Specialty Food Show ..................... 23-25

CHICAGO • Spring Market Sale/StyleMax ........8-9

Fort Mason Pavilions 808.422.7362 www.craftsource.org

Garden State Exhibit Ctr. 800.210.9900 www.sugarloafcrafts.com

NATIONAL ALBUQUERQUE • Albuquerque Oasis Gift Show ......10-11

BALTIMORE •Sugarloaf Crafts Festival ...............12-14

MD State Fairgrounds, Timonium, MD 800.210.9900 www.sugarloafcrafts.com

Royal Plaza Hotel & Trade Ctr. Marlborough, MA 717.796.2377 www.marketsquareshows.com

giftsanddec.com

gda1302Calendarid 155

South Point Hotel and Casino 888.427.2381 www.acrelasvegas.com

Eisenhower Inn Allstar Complex 717.249.9404 www.heritagemarkets.com

MEMPHIS • Mid-South Jewelry & Accessories Fair .......................................................19-21

GREENSBORO, NC • GTS Jewelry & Accessories Expo ..6-8

Memphis Cook Convention Ctr. 630.241.9865 www.gift2jewelry.com

Greensboro Coliseum Complex 770. 410.9771 www.gtshows.com

MINNEAPOLIS • Gift, Home & Accessory Show ... 21-23

41 Madison

Gift Mart, Minnetonka, MN 800.626.1298 www.mplsmart.com NEW YORK • New York Tabletop Mkt. ...............16-19

41 Madison Ave. 212.686.1203 www.41madison.com 7 West 34th St. 212.279.6063 www.7wnewyork.com 230 Fifth Ave. 800.698.5617 www.230FifthAve.com

february 2013 |

PLAYTHINGS

BOSTON • Buyers Cash & Carry Show ............... 21

GETTYSBURG, PA • Heritage Cash & Carry Mkt. .............. 17

LAS VEGAS • American Craft Retailers Expo (ACRE).........................................30-May 2

HOLIDAYS

Albuquerque Convention Ctr. 800.424.9519 www.oasis.org

Columbus MarketPlace, Dublin, OH 888.332.8979 www.thecolumbusmarketplace.com

GIFTABLES

April

COLUMBUS • Immediate Delivery Sale ............ 27-28

Metcalf South Mall 913.687.8059 www.giftmartofkansascity.com

GOURMET

SOMERSET, NJ • Sugarloaf Crafts Festival ............... 8-10

McCormick Place 800.933.8735 www.globalshop.org

KANSAS CITY, KS • Gift Mkt. of K.C.Close Out Sale..................................... 13-14

STATIONERY

SAN FRANCISCO • Contemporary Crafts Mkt. ............ 9-10

• GlobalShop ......................................16-18

I.H.F.C. Market Square, Plaza Suites, Showplace and other participants 336.869.1000 www.highpointmarket.org

BODY

San Antonio Events Ctr. 512.261.4223 www.parkertradeshow.com

DE Stevens Convention Ctr., Rosemont, IL 800.323.5462 www.twesshows.com

HIGH POINT, NC • High Point Mkt. ............................. 20-25

SAN ANTONIO • Southwest’s Premier Mktplace .... 8-10

• JF&A Show ......................................11-14

Boyne Highlands Golf and Ski Resort 231.526.1270 www.nmgiftshow.com

BATH

Portland Sports Complex 800.638.6787 www.nemadeshows.com

Chicago Merchandise Mart 312.527.7560 www.shopchicagomarket.com

HARBOR SPRINGS, MI • Northern Michigan Gift & Souvenir Show ................................................... 21-23

CANDLES

CHARLOTTE, NC • Charlotte Gift Show ...................27-29

FASHION

PHILADELPHIA • Sugarloaf Crafts Festival .............. 15-17

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 155

1/23/2013 4:27:33 PM

HOME FASHION CANDLES BODY & BATH STATIONERY GOURMET

www.giftshow.co.jp

North Central Michigan College 800.482.1333 www.petoskeygiftshow.com

CHINA • China Sourcing Fairs: Home, Baby & Children, Gift & Premium ............... 19-22 • China Sourcing Fairs: Fashion Accessories ..................................... 27-30

PORTLAND, OR • Portland Gift & Accessories Show 6-8

Asiaworld-Expo, Hong Kong 011.852.8199.7308 www.chinasourcingfair.com

World Trade Ctr. 011.88.62.2725.1111, ext. 629 www.taipeitradeshows.com.tw

PETROSKY, MI • Gift, Gourmet & Souvenir Show 20-22

Oregon Convention Ctr. 678.285.3976 www.portlandgift.com

• Gifts & Houseware Fair ............... 20-23 • Gifts & Premium Fair ................... 27-30

SECAUCUS, NJ • The Ireland Show ......................... 20-23

PLAYTHINGS

Exhibition Ctr., Hong Kong 011.852.2584.4333 www.hkhousewarefair.com www.hkgiftspremiumfair.com

TAIWAN • Giftionery: Taipei ......................... 24-27 • Handicraft & Souvenir Show...... 25-28

THAILAND • Bangkok Intl. Gift/Houseware Fair16-21

Exhibition Centre 312.787.3388 www.thaitradeusa.com

Embassy Suites Hotel 011.353.44.9348791 www.irelandshowsecaucus.com

• China Gift & Home Spring .......... 25-28

Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Ctr. 203.840.5662. www.reedexpo.com

UNITED KINGDOM • British Craft Trade Fair .................... 7-9

WASHINGTON, DC • Sugarloaf Crafts Festival ............ 26-28

INDIA • Home Expo India............................ 15-17

Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate 011.44.127.383.3884 www.bctf.co.uk

MD State Fairgrounds, Gaithersburg, MD 800.210.9900 www.sugarloafcrafts.com

India Expo Center, Greater Noida 011.91.11.26135256 www.epch.com

April

JAPAN • Premium Incentive Fair.................10-12

INTERNATIONAL

Tokyo Big Sight 011.813.38479155

In most cases, shows are to the trade only. Dates listed are provided by show managements. Before traveling to an event, however, please verify the particulars with the organizer by calling or visit the website. International contacts are preceded with (011).

>classified advertising Services

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

>calendar NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL

We are a manufacturer not a jobber!

•Competitive Pricing •Collated Cards •Flash Cards •Warehousing •Quality Product

•Easy to Work With •Play Money •Score Pads •Good Service •Order Fulfillment

5404 Wayne Rd., Battle Creek, MI 49037 1-800-233-5266 • FAX 269-966-1825 Website: www.delanoservice.com • E-mail: info@delanoservice.com Made in USA

№ 156 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302Calendarid 156

| february 2013

giftsanddec.com

1/23/2013 3:42:09 PM

HOME

>classified advertising

FASHION

Lines Wanted

Services

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

I have a sales representative staff of 5 people with a total of 100 years experience. I have relationships with the following accounts for 20 years:

WE SPECIALIZE IN: • FINDING TOP PRODUCING SALES REPRESENTATIVE. We presently have over 80% to 85% of all the representatives in the U.S. who sell giftware, stationery, housewares, office supply, bath decorative accessories, electronics, etc., in our data base. • REORGANIZING EXISTING COMPANIES SALES EFFORTS. We can provide representatives who are appropriate to sell your line. We also provide simple, easy to use systems and methods of working with your sales force tat will yield maximum sales results. • ASSISTING NEW MANUFACTURERS in bringing their product to the marketplace... We can develop marketing plans, establish the sales force, and assist in packaging, catalogs, trade advertising, point of purchase displays, etc.

Call ROGER WILSON or mail your catalog to MANUFACTURERS REPRESENTATIVE PROFILE 2150 A Douglas Boulevard • Suite 210 • Roseville, CA 95661

916/784-2300 • rogerwilson@mrpusa.com

“Excess Inventory and Reverse Logis cs Experts”

Buyers of Excess Inventory

giftsanddec.com giftsanddec.com

Call, Write, or Fax Today To Advertise! Spencer Whittle Phone: 336-605-1027 • SW hittle@sandowmedia.com

or Karen Hancock

Phone: 336-605-1047 • KHancock @sandowmedia.com Or Fax: 336-605-1143

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 157

PLAYTHINGS

Closeouts, Overstock, Customer Returns 28 Years of providing professional service Call or send informa on to: Event Sales, Inc (612) 781-1502 eventsale@eventsale.com

*Most reliable labels (3,700) Website: www.cindyjonesassociates.com/labels Email: cindy@cindyjonesassociates.com

HOLIDAYS

Market to Hospital Gift Shops

GIFTABLES

• WE CAN ESTABLISH YOUR LINES IN NEW MARKET AREAS.

GOURMET

We Buy Closeout, Discontinued and Excess Inventory. A-1 Account In Business 29 Years! 100,000 Sq. Ft. Warehouse in Chicago. eMail: closeouts@merchandiseusa.com Phone: 773-579-0600 Visit our website www.merchandiseusa.com

STATIONERY

A National B2B Wholesale merchandise closeout company.

Over 3800 Companies Use Our Service

BODY

Closeouts

A COSTLY MISTAKE!

Now Unproductive Reps/Territories No Longer Have To Be An Accepted Fact of Life!

If you are interested in using our sales force to get into these accounts, please contact Bill Johnson at: Billjohnsonsales@aol.com

If You’re Losing Sales - Profits Due To Unproductive Sales Reps/Territories - Every Day You Wait Is A Mistake...

BATH

TJ MAXX CORP/MARSHALLS/HOMEGOODS ROSS STORES BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY TUESDAY MORNING KOHL’S OLD TIME POTTERY KIRKLAND’S TARGET STEINMART

Attention! Manufacturers & Importers

CANDLES

Bill Johnson Sales

HOME FASHION

What a Doll! Marking its 90-year milestone of making Madame Alexander Dolls, the newly acquired Alexander Doll Company has much to celebrate. BY KATHY KRASSNER

PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

>backstory

HOWARD KAHN

FOUNDING MOTHER

Madame Beatrice Alexander Behrman, Alexander Doll Company founder, with her early dolls.

IL MIX LINE S FOR A SPEC IALT Y RETA

s Madame Alexander currently offer style in r diffe that three distinct lines and price points: Collectibles, with about 100 SKUs ranging in price from $70-$2,500 retail; Play Alexander, featuring about 60 SKUs rang y Bab and il; reta $125 $35from ing the in s SKU 40 t Alexander, with abou $45-$105 retail range. at These dolls can be found globally dinclu es stor ialty spec 0 2,00 e som ing FAO Schwarz in New York and at high-end department stores such as Harrods in London. The retail mix for the collectible and baby lines is s, approximately 50 percent toy shop ent perc 25 and s, shop gift ent perc 25 the doll-focused stores, and much of nal natio at d foun be can uct prod play n. Kah ard How to g retailers, accordin

№ 158 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302Backstoryid 158

| february 2013

THE STORY OF THE ACQUISITION OF THE 90-YEAR-OLD MADAME ALEXANDER AND RELATED DOLL BRANDS, by the 124-year-old com-

pany Kahn Lucas, one of the oldest children’s wear companies in the world, begins with a 4-year-old girl. Thanks to his daughter’s request for more attractive clothes for her dolls, Kahn Lucas CEO Howard Kahn began making coordinating doll outfits to match the company’s beautiful girls’ dresses five years ago. The line “exploded,” says Kahn, leading to the launch of the very successful “Dollie & Me” brand—which quickly expanded into accessories, toys, sleepwear, costumes and more. “Consumers started asking for dolls under the Dollie & Me brand,” relates Kahn, “and our retail customers suggested we meet with the Madame Alexander people.” That led to Madame Alexander becoming

Kahn Lucas’ first licensee four years ago, to create 18” dolls under the Dollie & Me brand. As their business together grew, so did Kahn’s appreciation for the Madame Alexander brand. “I fell in love with a lot of things,” he says, “including the authenticity and rich history of its brand.” Madame Alexander was founded in 1923 by a young woman of few means named Madame Beatrice Alexander Behrman, who had an entrepreneurial vision that continues to inspire and delight generations of children and collectors worldwide. “It’s a wonderful story that’s a great example for my children and for girls all around the world,” states Kahn. Last June, Kahn Lucas acquired most of the assets of the Alexander Doll Company. “It was our first acquisition in 124 years,” Kahn remarks. “This was just a fantastic op-

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 4:57:47 PM

tan,” notes Kahn. “That’s an important part of the company’s history.” Kahn Lucas is also working on developing Madame Alexander’s experiential businesses worldwide, including expanding the Middleton Doll Newborn Nursery and Madame Alexander Doll Factory, and other experiences that will engage multiple generations, according to Kahn. “These products bring together grandparents, parents and children,” he says. “By combining Madame Alexander with Kahn Lucas, we’re the only company in the world I’m aware of that has closed the loop on fashion, apparel and dolls—that whole dollplaying experience. The team at Madame Alexander, and its thousands of doll club collectors and enthusiasts around the world, are wonderful additions to the Kahn Lucas family.” •

FASHION CANDLES BATH & BODY

Bedtime Angelina, left, is an 18” doll based on the book Angelina’s Sleepover. $54.95. Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz, right, is a 12” machine washable and dryable doll. $34.95.

HOME

PLAY ALEXANDER DOLLS

dolls; significant expansion of its 18” play dolls and related accessories; a series of collectible dolls to celebrate the company’s 90th anniversary; new dolls from some of the company’s oldest licensees such as Gone with the Wind, The Wizard of Oz, and Alice in Wonderland; and more. “We’re also expanding our international collectible dolls as part of the history of Madame Alexander,” reports Kahn. Other exciting initiatives that the company is working on for 2013 include reopening the Madame Alexander Doll Hospital and company store in New York City in the near future. “Madame Alexander’s stepfather, Maurice Behrman, founded America’s first doll hospital on the lower east side of Manhat-

STATIONERY

portunity.” He believes that cultural compatibility is a key determinant to the success or failure of any merger of companies. “Kahn Lucas’ mission is consistent with that of Madame Alexander’s: helping girls feel beautiful inside and out,” shares Kahn. “Madame Alexander used to say, ‘What a doll does for a little girl is to develop her capacity to love others and herself.’ There are a lot of similarities between the two companies.”

GOURMET

New Initiatives

PLAYTHINGS

gda1302Backstoryid 159

HOLIDAYS

giftsanddec.com

GIFTABLES

In addition to Toy Fair in New York City each February, Madame Alexander participates in trade shows in Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, Chicago and Seattle. Along with its internal sales team, the company works with eight outside rep groups throughout the country. “We’re working on better serving our reps and the specialty stores we serve,” states Kahn, mentioning that several new programs are being announced at Toy Fair. “Since Kahn Lucas is a much larger company, we have a lot of strength in supporting our retail partners,” he says. “We want to apply our service capabilities and financial strength to supporting the retailers that do business with Madame Alexander.” The company is launching its 2013 collection at Toy Fair, which includes a line of washable cloth

90TH ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION LIMITED-EDITION DOLLS

Madame Alexander-1923, left, is a 21”, fully articulated Cissy doll. The Cissy doll, first introduced in 1955, is one of the first full-figure fashion doll lines with a couture outfit. $1,499.95. McGuffney Ana, right, is a limited-edition 12” collectible doll. $189.95. Madame Alexander. 800.229.5192. www.madamealexander.com CIRCLE #978

february 2013 |

gifts and decorative accessories

№ 159

1/22/2013 5:31:17 PM

As a gift store owner, you’re used to helping customers pick out the perfect gift. When you go to market, you become the customer who needs the same kind of customer service. What advice do you have for vendors?

HOME PLAYTHINGS

HOLIDAYS

GIFTABLES

GOURMET

STATIONERY

BATH

BODY

CANDLES

FASHION

We Ask, You Answered

Christine Osborne

Marsha Dautch

Liz White

WONDER WORKS

JENSS DECOR

MASON & MADISON

Charleston, SC

Amherst, NY

Middleton, MA

First and Foremost: 1. Food and Drink. Many times we are arriving after a five hour drive, [and] putting fuel in our body and caffeine/water all helps us focus better! 2. Excitement. We definitely love it when the vendor is excited about the product. If the vendor shows excitement, then we get excited, and in return we carry that excitement back to our employees and customers. 3. Knowledge. Know the product inside and out. 4. Safety. Be able to back up all safety concerns we may have. 5. Guarantee. It is always nice when a company can guarantee their product. It makes us know that they truly believe their product is outstanding. 6. Deals. Provide us with the best Terms and Dating when ordering (especially if we are ordering in larger quantities for the holidays.) We understand sometimes this can be tough. Last but not least: 7. Relationships are built, maintained, and enjoyed for years to come.

We pride ourselves on going above and beyond for our customers so they always think of us first when buying the perfect gift. Because of that, we expect the same treatment as the customer when dealing with vendors. Please greet us when we enter your showroom or booth. Do not act like we are interruptions in your conversation. We wouldn’t be there if we weren’t interested in your product. Have the appropriate catalogs or sheets with you. Do not promise to send them because we don’t always get them. When we come back from market and go over lines to write our orders, reminders of what we saw with correct pricing are key. If the information is not in our pile, we may forget you. Please follow up and return our calls. If we have a problem, deal with it promptly and efficiently. Just as we have competition and try to make the shopping experience not only favorable but enjoyable to attract new business and keep our customers happy, we expect the same as the customers. It is really very simple. We just want to matter.

Having just come back from the Atlanta winter market, I can speak based on recent experience. I feel we have the same needs and expectations from our reps/showrooms as our customers do from our stores. We want to know what the prices are for each product. It is frustrating to look at items with no prices and the rep is occupied helping others. We want to know the terms of the lines (i.e. opening order amounts, territory restrictions and any special promotions). We want to be greeted and then left alone to shop; but have reps nearby if we need help. In busy showrooms, it would be helpful to have a catalog given out so that we can pre-shop and can be ready to order when a rep is free or taken home to place the order. Lastly, signage is so important! It’s hard to see everything and sometimes difficult to speak to a rep, or in the multi-line showrooms you get a rep that isn’t very knowledgeable about a new line. Signs explaining best sellers, pre-pack items, specials, product features, and even working displays where we can try the product out, would be a great way to help retailers.

Talk Back! Tell us what shows you go to and why on the We Ask blog at GiftsandDec.com

№ 160 gifts and decorative accessories

gda1302WeAskid 160

| february 2013

giftsanddec.com

1/22/2013 5:28:47 PM

8"3. 61 50

4 1 3 * / ( with our

BEDDING & T H R OW S COLLECTION SHOWN: CAMBRIE LANE

V HC BR A N D S ASK ABOUT OUR DROP SHIP PROGRAM.

Untitled-3 1

#&%%*/( t 5)3084 t 36(4 7)$#3"/%4 $0. */'0!7)$#3"/%4 $0. Circle #171

1/17/2013 4:14:24 PM

LIGHTS IN THE NIGHT

™

mwcbk.com | 800.394 .4225 | Circle #145

Untitled-7 1

1/16/2013 4:25:54 PM

New for 2013

Over 100 New 2013 Introductions

Golden Dragon

at the American Intl. Toy Fair Jacob Javits Conv. Ctr. New York, NY

Booth 1637

Scan Me to See Our Entire Collection

FREE FIXTURE PROGRAMS NOW AVAILABLE!

Replicas designed by Safari Ltd速 in the US since 1982

Order online at at safariltd.com or call 800.554.5414 for a free color catalog. Circle #155

Untitled-3 1

1/17/2013 3:52:05 PM

An essential ingredient to every toybox, every childhood, every generation. See more puppets at www.folkmanis.com 0r call 1-800-654-8922 for a free catalog. Toy Fair booth 2837 Javits Center Circle #134

Untitled-1 1

1/24/2013 12:03:35 PM