SGN Asked: What Are Your Top Tips to Sell Occasion Merchandise and Decorations During this Time?

Before Shindigs & Celebrations in Nashville, Tenn., even had much time to fret about how the pandemic would affect their business, their customers were already coming up with celebration workarounds. “Our customers came up with these drive-by birthday parties. We sell balloons and balloons kept us alive,” said Owner Sandra Vaught.

However, the close to 30-yearold business didn’t miss an opportunity to suggest ways customers could augment balloon décor. “We offer tassels, confetti, garlands, arches, that sort of thing. But we don’t have to suggest a lot. These people know what they want. They see it online and then we do our best to accommodate. We make suggestions however, especially if they come in and can’t decide.” Shindigs & Celebrations has a designer on the prem- ises who can assist customers in this regard.

At Party Décor & More in Rehoboth Beach, Del., each day is an adventure during COVID times, according to store Owner Jim Pratt. “Balloons are really big because people are doing the drive-by celebrations and handing them out the window.” He bolsters sales by suggesting streamers, banners, and yard signs to customers. Meanwhile, he did a pivot and now stocks something he never would have guessed he would before. “Face masks! We’re selling tons of face masks and hand sanitizer at a party store! Who would have thought we ever would have done that?”

Despite strong Halloween sales in 2021, manpower has been in short supply at Discount Costumes in Warner Robins, Ga. “We lost staff when the pandemic began. They started getting unem-

Reusable Stainless Steel Water Bottles

Keep plastic out of our wild areas with reusable, BPA-free stainless steel water bottles and pint glasses from Mountain Graphicx. Choose from many eye-catching designs or add one of your own. These are dishwasher safe. Many designs for the outdoor retail market. Free name-drops are free.

(For more information call 1-888-764-6450, visit www.mtgraphics. com, or circle 33 on the reader service card.)

ployment and never came back. Right now, we’re kind of operating as a mom-and-pop shop so it’s been hard,” said Jerry Bradley, who co-owns the business with his wife Marion. If he could suggest anything on how to sell any occasion merchandise during these pandemic days, it would be for stores to increase their social media marketing and strategies. “It’s probably the best way and the most cost-effective.” ❖

Weather-Resistant Stickers and Magnets

Mountain Graphics offers eye-catching, outdoor-weatherresistant stickers and magnets. There are many stock designs to choose from. Free namedrops. Made in the United States.

(For more information call 1-888-764-6450, visit www. mtgraphics.com, or circle 33 on the reader service card.)

Stainless Steel Mugs, Water Bottles and Pint Glasses

Reusable stainless steel camp mugs, water bottles, and pint glasses are available from Mountain Graphics. Choose from many eye-catching designs or add one of your own. These are dishwasher safe and BPA-free. Many designs for the outdoor retail market. Name-Drops are free, low minimums.

(For more information call 1-888-764-6450, visit www.mtgraphics. com, or circle 33 on the reader service card.)

Reps Wanted

Established Nautical 500 pc. Jigsaw Puzzles. 15-20% commissions.

Mr. Souvenir (609) 500-0619 or beachsouvenirs@gmail.com.

NATIONAL SALES MANAGER – RESORT MARKET

Market leader seeks experienced sales professional to lead its National Sales Team.

5+ years Sales Leadership experience in the Resort Industry required.

Must possess solid relationships with top Specialty Retail and Major National Accounts.

Must have a thorough understanding of retail math, forecasts, and ladder plan merchandising. Confidentiality Assured. hr@matrixsalesgroup.com