Home Décor

bus, where she is the retail operations manager. “I also track the trends through social media and publications,” Steedman said at the 800-square-foot store. A current hit is a line of vintage style, poster size Caval- pliers come to you. “Small vendors who maybe can’t afford to show at the big shows are constantly approaching our buyer here,” reported Margaret Csala , director of Retail and Business Development at the New York Botanical Garden in The Bronx. lini wrap sheets that people bring home to hang on their walls. “They’re beautiful and extremely affordable,” the manager explained.

Csala scans wares each year at the major trade shows in Atlanta and New York, but her team members have also spotted wonderful finds — like the shop’s most popular notecard vendor — at small maker and craft fairs.

When your attraction is big enough, of course, sup-

At the 7,500-square-foot store, patrons love housewares with botanical designs, from flowers and herbs to vegetables and mushrooms. Best-sellers include glazed ceramic plant pots and the garden’s own branded line of kitchen dish towels. “We have a huge variety, and they sell phenomenally well,” Csala said. ❖

What Are Your Top Customer Service Tips?

wo things: One, make them feel safe in a clean environment, so they know we’re looking out for their safety during the pandemic. And two, make it personal by talking to guests. We’ll trade tips about plant care, tell them where the jewelry was made, answer any questions they have. Human interaction is what sets us apart; customers are hungry for that, and for the kind of advice you can’t get online.”

— Director Margaret Csala, Retail and Business Development, New York Botanical Garden, The Bronx

“We always greet someone with a warm hello or smile. This lays the foundation for a great experience in our shop. We then engage them in conversation about their visit, and from there, we can suggest merchandise.” — Garden Shop Manager Tricia Wherry,

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond, Va.

“I would say a smiling face, but that’s impossible with masks. Right now, with things getting back to normal, customer engage- tions Manager Anthony Marquez, SSA Group - ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, Albuquerque, N.M.

“We make guests feel at home while they shop, engaging them and sharing stories and details about the items. Guests really appreciate the attention, and they come away with a better understanding and appreciation for the Garden mission.” — Store Director Alejandra Herrera, Desert Botanical Garden Shop, Phoenix, Ariz.

“Make a connection through pleasant conversation. Always make sure your customer feels special and appreciated. Do not follow them around the shop, but offer assistance if they want it.” ment is your best bet. Let the customer know we’re thankful they’ve come back — that really goes along way.” — Retail Opera-

— Retail Operations Manager Kathleen Steedman, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Columbus, Ohio ❖