Smoky Mountain Gift Show Section

Souvenir Best-Sellers (From page 88)

Cahill agreed and said that higher price ranges sold very well this season. She attributed this to the robust economy and the desire to go out and shop again.

Martin, on the other hand, has seen a decrease in higher-end purchases, but still sees people spending up to the $2,000 range. Items are priced up to $6,000. “Patrons have consistently sought out quality pieces of handmade indigenous jewelry, scarves, and bolo ties.

Merchandise Changes

When deciding which merchandise to sell, Kwiecien tries to keep up with trends. Because customers purchase for children, she has increased the amount of sensory products for sale. She is following the new educational trend of social and emotional learning.

Martin said smaller home good items have been selling well at the 1,223-square-foot-shop. “We stock modern western motif glasses, bottle openers, hand towels, and smaller pottery design pieces that complement just about any space,” he said. “Now that guests have been spending more time at home, we’ve also added more useful items like candles, soaps, and dried soups.” ❖