MARCH 2019
for home & lifestyle retailers. Est.1975
Urban Rituelle celebrates
20th
anniversary
Working mums
Combining motherhood and business
Double impact
New brand for mums & daughters Proudly supported by the Australian Gift & Homewares Association - the Voice of the Industry
b.
a. c.
G I F T FA I R B E S T S E L L E R
Moonlit Blossoms
Help your customers find the perfect gift for mum all year round
i.
g.
C O N TA C T Y O U R L O C A L S A L E S R E P O R S H O P O N L I N E
d.
h.
e.
f.
Matching gift box included Moonlit Blossoms Starter Pack $282.64
PACK-MD19
Pack contains: a. Cosmetic Bag Set (x2) b. Mum Verse (x2) c. Moonlit Blossom Mug (x4) d. Treat Fund Change Box (x6) e. Cherish Verse (x2) f. Yankee Candle & Giftbox (x6) g. Little Box of Love Mum (x4)
MD1903 MD1904 MD1908 MD1902 MD1905 MD1907 LBL01
$39.95 RRP $ 9.95 RRP $14.95 RRP $29.95 RRP $ 9.95 RRP $39.99 RRP $14.95 RRP
Other gift ideas for Mum: h. Loving Hearts Mum i. Just for Mum Mini Change Box
LVH05 CBM10
$ 6.95 RRP $19.95 RRP
SPLOSH.COM.AU | SALES@SPLOSH.COM | (07) 3805 4718 |
SPLOSHAUST
for home & lifestyle retailers. Est.1975
Giftguide is published by
THE INTERMEDIA GROUP PTY LTD ABN 94 002 583 682 41 Bridge Rd Glebe NSW 2037 Australia Ph: 02 9660 2113 Fax: 02 9660 4419 MANAGING DIRECTOR: Simon Grover PUBLISHER: Mark Kuban EDITOR: Marion Gerritsen marion@intermedia.com.au NATIONAL ADVERTISING MANAGER: Gabrielle Broodryk gbroodrk@intermedia.com.au SENIOR DESIGNER: Chris Papaspiros PRODUCTION MANAGER: Jacqui Cooper HEAD OF CIRCULATION: Chris Blacklock DISCLAIMER This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication. Copyright © 2019 The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd.
4 giftguideonline.com.au
20 30 In this issue
22 in focus combining motherhood with business
8 profile Urban Rituelle celebrates 20 years in business
26 marketing how to use social media to maximise sales
12 visual merchandising fabulous window displays from around the world
28 in-store how to make Mother’s Day your biggest sales opportunity of the year
20 branding new label for mums and daughters
30 products the latest gifts for mum’s special day
contents
12 26 28 08
March 2019  5
81 Tulip Street, Cheltenh t: 03 9581 3666 I f: 03 9583 9321 I e: enquiries
ham, Vic 3192, Australia s@gibsongifts.com.au I www.gibsongifts.com.au
VIEW FROM
the top
By following her dad’s advice, Leanne Haining went from wrapping handmade soaps with raffia and gift tags at home on the kitchen table to having distribution in more than 1,000 retail stores around Australia.
8  giftguideonline.com.au
profile
T
here are many things to admire about Urban Rituelle co-founder, Leanne Haining, but if you had to pick one thing it has to be her work ethic. Working all five days on the trade
fair stand and giving birth three days later is not something many people would be able let alone willing to do. However, Haining says she had no choice as one of her staff members resigned when she was eight months pregnant, on Christmas Eve, and she literally had no time to find a replacement before her first baby Leilani was born. “I was even invoicing trade fair orders up until the day before I went into labour!” she adds. This was back in 2005, six years after launching to trade at the Sydney Reed Gift Fair. Fast forward to 2019 and Urban Rituelle is celebrating 20 years in the industry.
“Our first products were handmade soaps and we soon realised that each week, our customers were returning to experience our new fragrances.”
March 2019 9
profile
“Urban Rituelle emerged from an inner city artisan
“Our first products were handmade soaps and
market in Glebe, after Scott and I met travelling
we soon realised that each week, our customers
in southern Turkey. Our experiences travelling
were returning to our stand to experience
restored an appreciation of life’s simple pleasures
our new fragrances and try something new.
and filled us with the inspiration to create a unique
They were creating their own unique weekly
range of bath, body and home fragrance products
rituals, bringing simple pleasure into their lives
that enhance and celebrate every day rituals.
through fragrance.”
CLICK
10 giftguideonline.com.au
+ TO READ MORE
U
u
M MU
u
U
ALLY BALLY BEE
BABYLON TRADING
Mother’s Day These retailers know how to celebrate Mother’s Day in style.
CATCHING FIREFLIES
12 giftguideonline.com.au
FLOWER COUTURE
LIVING ART STUDIO
visual merchandising
BANNERAMA
CALLADOODLES
MAGPIES NEST
FREEDOM AUSTRALIA
March 2019  13
visual merchandising
MARMALADE MERINGUE
MOVING MANNEQUINS
OCCASIONS FLORIST
REASONS TO BE CHEERFUL
16  giftguideonline.com.au
Mother’s Day gifts for the eco-conscious mum info@importants.com.au | 02 9516 1496 www.importants.com.au
visual merchandising
PERFECT BUNCH
OUR HANDMADE COLLECTIVE
THE GIFT BOUTIQUE
RUPANYUP LIVING
18  giftguideonline.com.au
eco-inspired oil diffusers & essential oils ellia.com.au
ellia@homedics.com.au
•
03 8765 6500
ingredient
THE ESSENTIAL
As a mother of three Gemma Crowe knew her brand needed to be about family and fun to make that connection with her audience.
20 giftguideonline.com.au
A
sa
local fashion craze: matching
shopaholic
mother and daughter swimmer.
teenage girl, Gemma
“When I relaunched Infamous Swim and
Crowe had no idea the impact
introduced the Mini Swim
her eye for design would have.
range, I just did not expect
Fast forward to 2019 and she is
the response I got,” she says.
now the founder of emerging
“My Instagram blew up,
swimwear label, Infamous Swim.
practically overnight.”
Crowe has hit a niche market
The instant success of
and is responsible for the latest
Infamous Mini Swim is a
branding
testament to the potential of small brands to make it big in Australia’s current retail environment. With almost 50,000 followers on Instagram, Crowe is on the right path. “Infamous Swim has a different attitude to swimwear. The Mini Swim range is all about family, enjoyment and feeling comfortable in your own skin. That’s what people love.” CLICK
+ TO READ MORE March 2019 21
my success THE SECRET OF
Giftguide chats to 5 inspirational women about combining motherhood and running a successful business.
Lisa Carrick, Enjoy Lighting
business fit around my desire to be the before
What does the ideal Mother’s Day look
school mum, the after school mum, the p and
like for you?
f committee mum, the fundraiser mum, the
You know, at the risk of sounding corny, every
enthusiastic spectator all day Saturday mum, the
day has moments when it’s like Mother’s Day
washing and folding queen, the try new recipe
for me. I’m so grateful for the beautiful soul who
mum, the snuggle on the couch mum, as these
chose me to be his mother.
little windows into my child’s life make my long
As a working mum I really I try to make the
CLICK 22 giftguideonline.com.au
weeks worthwhile.
+ TO READ MORE
in focus
Helen Armstrong, Apsley & Co What does the ideal Mother’s Day look like for you? Ideal Mother’s Day for me is all about
Paula Opfer, Axis Toys
spending the day with family of course. A
What does the ideal Mother’s Day look
cup of tea in my favourite bone china cup in
like for you?
bed, followed by breakfast with my partner.
I think that image has changed over the years.
Then off to my 92-year-old mum to take her to
Once to me (before reality hit) she looked
church. She loves having my brother and I go
beautiful and unflustered like some kind of
with her. After church we have lunch together.
supermodel with beautiful children draped
When at home I potter in the kitchen with a
off her but now she looks like a real woman
glass of wine ( I love cooking) to put something
(however you see her) and she’s talking to her
together for the kids when they come for dinner
kids and they’re talking to her and they’re happy.
with our grandson―just a lovely family day.
CLICK
+ TO READ MORE
CLICK
+ TO READ MORE March 2019 23
Kim Good, Import Ants
speak honestly with your children and explain why
What does the ideal Mother’s Day look
you need to do this on this particular occasion,
like for you?
although they might still not be happy with it, they
That’s easy, a bit of a sleep in followed by breakfast
do understand. Obviously the discussion needs
with my daughter in our backyard.
to be age specific but even very young children
Tips for combining motherhood and a
can understand that you can’t be in two places at
successful business?
once. When my daughter was little and I had to do
Honesty. Sometimes you have to prioritise work
this I would set a date to be just with her that gave
over family and I have always found that if you
us something we could both look forward to.
CLICK 24 giftguideonline.com.au
+ TO READ MORE
in focus
Adele Basheer, Intrinsic
feel-good moments. A sentimental flick that night
What does the ideal Mother’s Day look
rounds out a perfect day!
like for you?
Tips for combining motherhood and a
Jamie’s mum passed away from breast cancer in
successful business?
2013 and we love to begin the day running the
When people ask me what my greatest success is
Mother’s Day Classic alongside our kids. Then we
or what I’m most proud of, the answer is bringing
have a big family celebration for lunch or afternoon
up two wonderful citizens of the world. It’s the
tea with my mum, brother, sister and our families.
most challenging and rewarding job you’ll ever
Everyone pitches in and it’s always filled with
have….good groundwork for business!
CLICK
+ TO READ MORE March 2019 25
g n i r a sh
THANKS FOR
26  giftguideonline.com.au
Social media is a cost-effective way to promote your Mother’s Day ranges and events, adding a fun and entertaining element to your marketing campaign.
marketing
A
fter Christmas,
Social media is a great platform to make some
Mother’s Day is one of
noise about special events in-store, great gift
the most popular occasions
packs for mums or anything else that you’re doing
that people around the world
specifically for Mother’s Day.
celebrate and a great opportunity for retailers to
We look at different ways you can use this popular platform to maximise your sales.
boost their profits. CLICK
+ TO READ MORE
March 2019 27
28  giftguideonline.com.au
instore
Just go with it Mother’s Day is a great opportunity to boost your profits with targeted campaigns, additional services and amazing window displays. We look at 6 ways to help maximise your sales.
1 Just for mum
Do the same on your website and even social
Make it as easy as possible for customers to find
media. If you’re promoting special packages
gifts for Mother’s Day. Create a special section
or events, make sure it is visible on the
in store with clear signage and display, so when
web as soon as customers land on your
they enter the store they know exactly where
homepage, highlighting all the special deals
to look!
and offers.
CLICK
+ TO READ MORE March 2019 29
1 2 A selection of gifts for Mother’s Day
3
4 1. Moonlit Blossoms cosmetic bag set, wholesales for $13.07. Splosh, 07 3805 4718, sales@splosh.com.au, www.splosh.com.au, facebook.com/sploshaust, instagram.com/splosh 2. Thank You, Mum notebook, wholesales for $13.50. Compendium Australia, 1300 304 569, sales@compendium.com.au, www.compendium.com.au 3. Gibson Gifts Two Hearts frame, wholesales for $8.95. Gibson Importing Co (Aust), 03 9581 3666, enquiries@gibimp.com.au, www.gibsongifts.com.au 4. Eco Max Brushes Pamper Packs, wholesale from $10.50 to $12.50. Import Ants, 02 9516 1496, info@importants.com.au, importants.com.au, facebook.com/ImportAntsFairTrade, instagram.com/import.ants 30  giftguideonline.com.au
products
1
2
5
3
4
6
1.Me to You heart I love you mum & signature heart and flower, wholesale for $12.25 and $22.70 respectively. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS 2. I Am Her notebook, wholesales for $15.50. Compendium Australia, 1300 304 569, sales@compendium.com.au, www.compendium.com.au 3. Equilibrium Charming bookmarks, wholesale for $8.25 each. Gibson Importing Co (Aust), 03 9581 3666, enquiries@gibimp. com.au, www.gibsongifts.com.au 4. Blush Crush Mother’s Day range, wholesales from $4.33 to $51.74. Kelly Lane, 07 5534 6844, enquiries@kellylaneart.com, www.kellylane.com.au, facebook.com/KellyLaneHomewares, instagram.com/kellylanehomewares/ 5. Moonlit Blossoms Mum’s Treat Fund, wholesales for $13.07. Splosh, 07 3805 4718, sales@splosh.com.au, www.splosh.com.au, facebook.com/sploshaust, instagram.com/splosh 6. Ellia Refresh essential oil diffuser, retails for $99.95. HoMedics Australia, 03 8756 6500, david.hudd@homedics.com.au, www.ellia.com.au, facebook.com/ElliaAustralia, instagram.com/ElliaAustralia March 2019 31
2
1
3
6
4
5
1. Mother’s Day collection, wholesale prices start at $11. Compendium Australia, 1300 304 569, sales@compendium.com.au,
www.compendium.com.au 2. Eco Max Brushes Gardener’s Brush & Hemp Soap Saver, wholesale for $4 and $18 respectively. Import Ants, 02 9516 1496, info@importants.com.au, importants.com.au, facebook.com/ImportAntsFairTrade, instagram.com/import. ants 3. Mother’s Day collection, wholesales from $9.08 for trinket dish to $29.99 for teapot. Intrinsic Enterprises, 08 8232 2366, hello@intrinsiconline.com, www.intrinsiconline.com, facebook.com/theintrinsicway, instagram.com/theintrinsicway 4. Nuzzles Pink Flamingo socks, wholesale for $6.80. Gibson Importing Co (Aust), 03 9581 3666, enquiries@gibimp.com.au, www.gibsongifts.com.
au 5. Say What Girl Gear jewellery pouch, wholesales for $13.65. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS 6. Mum’s Little Box of Love, wholesales for $6.12. Splosh, 07 3805 4718, sales@splosh.com.au, www.splosh.com.au, facebook.com/sploshaust, instagram.com/splosh 32 giftguideonline.com.au
products
3 1
2
5 6
4 1. Eco Max Brushes coconut palm broom, wholesales for $17. Import Ants, 02 9516 1496, info@importants.com.au,
importants.com.au/, facebook.com/ImportAntsFairTrade/, instagram.com/import.ants 2. Me to You Mum Bear in Bag, wholesales for $9.05. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS 3. Say What Off The Clock stemless wine glasses, wholesale for $5.90. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS 4. Leonardo Mad Dots mum mug, wholesales for $6.95. Gibson Importing Co (Aust), 03 9581 3666, enquiries@gibimp.com.au, www.gibsongifts.com.au 5. Ellia Gather Essential oil diffuser, retails for $149.95. HoMedics Australia, 03 8756 6500, david.hudd@homedics.com.au, www.ellia.com.au,
facebook.com/ElliaAustralia, instagram.com/ElliaAustralia 6. The English Soap Company Occasion Italian wrapper soap, wholesales for $5.89. Profile Products Australia, 02 9476 4568, sales@profileproducts.com.au, www.profileproducts.com.au, facebook.com/ProfileAustralia, instagram.com/ProfileAustralia March 2019  33
continued from page 10 products with 80 road reps and a warehouse in LA with a large inventory on hand. We had to shut down our US business and manage our stock that was sitting in LA, all while keeping our Australian business operational.” Combining motherhood with a successful business is at times a very difficult situation, says Haining. “I have been racked with mother’s guilt because I am often busy, stressed and not present with my girls and their needs, believe me the juggle is real! “However, I need to be kind to myself and From humble beginnings, Urban Rituelle now
have open and honest conversations with
has established distribution in well over 1,000
my daughters. I talk to them openly and
retail stores throughout Australia, as well as
honestly about our business, our achievements
growing international markets–products used
and struggles. I remind myself that I am
to be stocked in one of the most beautiful retail
a positive role model for them, as I am
stores in the world, Anthroplogie, across the US.
determined, resilient and committed to
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing when they first tried to crack the US market. “Starting up our US business venture, with two young
success. I believe that they are very proud of our business success. “My mum says don’t get too stressed about
girls in nappies and doing 11 trade fairs a year–
the little things like toys scattered all over the
three in Australia and eight in the US–was a
floor or the girls wanting to wear the same
challenge. We were running two businesses
dress every day when they were little. One day
on different time zones and we also had a very
those toys will be gone and those little girls’
young family who didn’t sleep at night.
dresses won’t fit anymore. Enjoy the moment
“Our exit from the US market was due to the financial crisis. We were distributing our 34 giftguideonline.com.au
you have with your children and don’t be so hard on yourself!”
profile
This belief in herself and the brand they were
For other businesses just starting out in the
building didn’t come naturally for Haining and
industry she adds to look for your unique
she says it took her 20 years to be comfortable
offering, run your own race and don’t worry
promoting Urban Rituelle and their story.
too much about what the competition are
“I understand more than ever that having the right
doing. Make sure you know your numbers. Set
people on your team is crucial and being a strong
targets and report on these KPIs regularly. If
leader is an essential part of running a successful
you identify something is not right, take action
business. Without strong leadership and direction,
and change it quickly.
your team doesn’t have a vision to follow. If I could
“The gift and homewares industry in Australia
change anything, I would have learnt to be a
used to be very small and localised, there were
stronger leader earlier and believed in myself as a
definitely not as many imported products as
leader, in the early days of our business.”
we see today. Now we are playing in a global
March 2019 35
continued from page 35 market and I feel that due to this Australian
“Originally, simple and minimal packaging
design and manufacturing has become
was designed for each product, but now as
incredibly sophisticated. In the gift and
much time is devoted to researching and
homewares industry we are all dealing with
developing packaging design, as our new
intense competition, which means you have to
fragrances and formulations. We are now
constantly work to stand out from the crowd.
heavily invested into the marketing of the brand
“It’s not the smartest or strongest of the
and product, with weekly EDMs being sent to
species who survive, it’s the one most
our national database and daily updates shared
adaptable to change,” emphasises Haining.
on social media.”
Receiving four Best Stand awards from Reed
Does Haining have any last words of wisdom?
Gift Fairs as well as four GALA awards for best
Plenty, she says, while thinking of the lessons
bath, body fragrance, shows Urban Rituelle
learned along the way. “If you change nothing,
has evolved in 20 years to a much loved and
nothing will change. If you want a different
respected brand in the industry.
outcome, you will need to have the courage to
“We began our business on a trestle table, wrapping our handmade soaps with raffia and
change and do things differently. “I have also learned the importance of
gift tags at home on the kitchen table. [In 1999]
surrounding yourself with people who believe
we launched to retail partners at the Sydney
in you and support you. Your circle should want
Reed Gift Fair and before we knew it had retail
you to win. Your circle should clap the loudest
partners across the entire country.
when you have good news. I have an amazing
“My background in visual merchandising led
support crew, who inspire me every day to
us to design and lovingly build our timber point
achieve great things, to learn new skills and
of sale packages to assist our retail partners with
push me to go outside my comfort zone. When
their instore display, a unique concept in the
we openly share learnings and experiences with
industry at the time. Over the early years of our
each other we can all grow and learn to be a
business development we listened carefully to
better version of ourselves.
our customers and designed products to meet their needs. 36 giftguideonline.com.au
“And last but not least, where focus goes energy flows!”
profile
Leanne Haining’s visual merchandising tips 1. Tell a visual story with your merchandising,
amazing and your business and staff will be
make sure your products are placed above
remembered as going above and beyond.
waist level in your store in a prominent
They might even add the product onto their
position and that all products are clean and
purchase, in this sale, or the next time they
beautifully presented. No-one will buy bath,
are in your store.
body or home fragrance products if they look
3. Burn our candles in your store, your
dirty and dusty, or have price stickers placed
customers will walk in and smell the amazing
on the front of the boxes. We love helping our
fragrance, inspiring them to want to discover
customers with their merchandising and are
more about the brand and your offering.
always happy to send photos for inspiration.
4. Talk to your staff, share the Urban Rituelle
2. Have clean visually appealing testers
story with them, tell them about the people
placed alongside our products and
and the product. If you share our story with
encourage your staff to offer these for your
them, they will in turn feel comfortable talking
customers to try. Have a hand cream tester
to your customers about the product and the
ready at the counter and offer this to all
brand. We are so much more than a candle
customers to try while they are finalising
company, we create rituals that make people
their purchase. They will walk away smelling
feel good!
BACK TO CONTENTS
March 2019  37
feature
continued from page 21 get the perfect combination– someone who is able to connect with her audience and provide what they really want. Infamous Swim taps into another digitally driven trend, body positivity, with the brand showcasing models in a range of sizes. This commitment is a taste of the ‘mum magic’ which Infamous Swim runs on. Like the best kind of mum, this brand is realistic and yet glamorous, down to earth and yet fun. Perhaps this is why Infamous Swim has taken off, making waves in the online shopping world. “My designs are feminine, fun and comfortable. We don’t The idea of matching mother and daughter
believe in one-season wear–
swimwear is innovative, value-adding and just
what mum has time for that? We want our
quirky enough. Buyers are falling in love, with mums
swimwear to last. Bold patterns, flattering cuts
across the country jumping on this new trend.
and high quality materials define the Mini Swim
Crowe’s tenacity and design skills are a force to be reckoned with. Combine this with her own experience as a mother of three and you 38 giftguideonline.com.au
range,” explains Crowe. Many little girls grow up dreaming about becoming a fashion designer. It’s an alluring
branding
career for any style-loving girl. Yet, most
There will be plenty of brands competing for
of these dreams do not come true. In an
attention in the ever-changing retail market.
overcrowded retail market, you have to
But, it will be brands such as Infamous Swim
earn your place in the spotlight. Crowe and
who truly make a splash this year. Gemma
Infamous Swim have defied the odds–the
and her playful concept will go far, offering a
unique idea of matching mother and daughter
unique experience and ultimately transforming
outfits has given her a voice in this noisy
how women buy swimwear.
marketplace and the brand is thriving.
“I never would have dreamed this would
“I just want Australian mums to enjoy the fun
happen to my little business,” she enthuses.
bits of motherhood. If putting on a great pair
Not so little anymore, Infamous Swimwear is
of swimmers and getting a matching pair for
worth keeping an eye on.
their little one helps that, I’m doing something right,” says Crowe when asked what her dream for the business is. In the business sphere, it is rare that genuine passion and innovative creativity combine. It is this winning combination which has shot Infamous Swim and its new Mini Swim range into rising stardom. Upon scrolling through the Infamous Swim Instagram feed, you can’t help but notice the enthusiasm behind the brand. Crowe’s enthusiasm is infectious and her audience has caught it. With hundreds comments on the photos such as ‘What a gorgeous range!’ and ‘Totally in love!’, it’s no wonder this business is growing in popularity. BACK TO CONTENTS
March 2019 39
continued from page 22 When we told Ethan about our record trade fair in Sydney, his response was, “wow mum, that’s a great PB!” Tip #3: Try to eat one meal together every day. You learn so much at the dinner table. What are your best-sellers for Mother’s Day? Our new Enjoy LUX Signature Collection that But the ideal one day that we celebrate? Well
launched at the recent trade fair will no doubt
I’d love French champagne for breakfast in
be our best-seller. Arriving in stores mid-April,
bed, fresh prawns from the local trawler, sliced
this patented 3D wick design is like nothing
avocado and breadsticks with the immediate
the world has ever seen and has turned the
family for lunch, a card game mid-afternoon
flameless candle market on its head. Our record
and early evening drinks on the deck then a
trade fair, where we sold three times more than
barbecue with my immediate and extended
our best ever trade fair in our first 10 years is
family. Surrounded by candles, flameless
testament to that.
of course!
What is the one piece of advice that
3 tips for combining motherhood and a
your mum gave you that you still
successful business?
follow today?
Tip #1: Time management is key. Allocate time for family and time for work. Sometimes it’s not always possible when working across international time zones, but I consciously try to be purposeful and present when spending time with family, as time with them is far too precious. Tip #2: Create a culture of celebration. Involve the family in your successes, as a family business does impact the whole family, in one way or another. 40 giftguideonline.com.au
in focus
Never give up. Where there’s a will, there’s a
light of a retail store so there’s no need to try to
way. And do unto others as you would want
create a dark corner―these babies are bright!
done to yourself. Be kind, kindness is your
Early feedback from some retailers who have
best asset.
had samples to display in store is the customers
3 Mother’s Day visual merchandising
love them.
tips for retailers? Tip #1: Our candles look best when turned on and in situ, so inspire the customer with how they can use our candles at home. Tip # 2: The best retailers for us are the ones that upsell and use our candles as part of the package, for example, in a lantern, a large cluster on a tray. Tip # 3: And keep a remote control handy, even in your pocket, so you can have some fun by turning the candles on and off to grab the customer’s attention. Luckily our new Enjoy LUX Collection glows brightly in the brightest BACK TO CONTENTS
March 2019 41
continued from page 23 - Apsley & Co
continued from page 23 - Axis Toys
Tips for combining motherhood and a
3 tips for combining motherhood and a
successful business?
successful business?
Plan, plan and plan! I have only had step
1. You need to be organised so you can juggle
children so I haven’t had some of the
and function effectively with whatever hat you’re
challenges others have.
wearing at that moment. 2. You need to remain calm as you’re the only
What are your best-sellers for Mother’s Day?
one that actually listens in the family and if you’re
The products that are really popular around this
working with boys.
time include Abode Aroma Crystal, Scented
3. You need to make yourself available so whether
Space White Lily diffuser and Vesuvius candles.
you’re at work or being a mother you’re there!
What is the one piece of advice mum
What are your best-sellers for Mother’s Day?
gave you that you still follow today?
Our most popular items are the ColourAway
Treat others the way you would like to be treated.
aprons. They have been around for a little while
Mother’s Day visual merchandising
but are still very much in demand.
tips for retailers?
What is the one piece of advice that your
Plan a colour theme and then group items
mum gave you that you still follow today?
within that colour palette together and always
Don’t bite your tongue you might get
add some flowers!
blood poisoning! 3 Mother’s Day visual merchandising tips for retailers? Keep it real, clean and fresh lines. Make it reflect what they would like to see for themselves at home.
42 giftguideonline.com.au
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in focus
continued from page 24 - Import Ants Leave work at work would be my other tip. Even if you are working from home, set a start time and an end time. Like most businesses Import Ants started at home. It took me some time to learn this. With a new business you are so excited by every order that it is hard not to keep looking at the emails, but you do need separation from work and home. So don’t do a load of washing while you are working and don’t look at work when you have finished for the day. What are your best-sellers for Mother’s Day? Our Eco Max Brushes have a range of body brushes that are a perfect gift for Mother’s Day. Body brushing is a few minutes for a busy mother to take time out to care for herself and the gentle act of brushing helps to release stress. We have this year created these beautiful pamper packs that combine a body brush with natural soaps and
helped by a little joint humour. Laughter really is
cleansing oils in a plant based Sinamay bag.
the best medicine.
What is the one piece of advice that
Mother’s Day visual merchandising
your mum gave you that you still
tips for retailers?
follow today?
Don’t over clutter you displays with too many
Don’t take yourself too seriously. Mum could
different options and work in triangles. Think of
always see the funny side of things and taught
a simple pyramid with its triangular shape which
me that it helps to laugh at yourself rather than
draws the eye from the edges upward towards the
beat yourself up over your mistakes. It’s amazing
top. Displays without a structure tend to leave the eye
how many mother child situations can be
to wander and not hold the viewer’s attention. BACK TO CONTENTS
March 2019 43
continued from page 25 • Make time for your kids on their time. One
money, frustration, lack of time, etc. Their
of the benefits of working for yourself is
values are developing in their early years, so
getting to choose where you put your time
know the message you want them to carry
and energy. When our kids were little, being
through life.
involved in school activities―reading, events
What are your best-sellers for Mother’s Day?
and committees–was really important to them.
Intrinsic mugs and tea-for-ones are always a
After school was our sacred time with park
winner, and this year I’m predicting our newly
visits, dance and music lessons, sport and
introduced mum hand cream and mum pens
homework. Jamie and I would work during
will be on the best-sellers list.
school hours and when the kids wound down
What is the one piece of advice that
for the night, we’d get back to Intrinsic.
your mum gave you that you still
• Accept that you’ll never have full balance.
follow today?
When you’re in the growing phase (does it
My mother lived by example and taught me that
ever stop?) business can be all consuming.
I could do anything if I put my mind to it.
My kids developed a strategy where they’d
Mother’s Day visual merchandising tips
ask ‘mum, do I have your full attention’? Then
for retailers?
I could either stop what I was doing or tell
Create an impact with the power of plenty
them I needed to get through what I was
and colour blocking. To make it easy for our
working on.
retailers, Intrinsic has created a stunning display
• Involve your kids by giving them jobs and
sign with a beautiful mum quote as part of our
tasks in the business. Our kids used to earn all
Mother’s Day package, which coordinates with
their pocket money by making our mini Magic
our mum range plus our companion gifts for
Moments cards when they were younger. It
add on sales such as stationery, scarves, travel
taught them the value of money, a good work
and accessories.
ethic and contribution. • Be mindful of your self-talk and what you’re
Make it effortless for customers (and staff) by having a few items pre-gift wrapped–sons,
projecting–particularly through the rough
husbands and busy women particularly love
periods. Kids pick up on negative talk around
anything that makes life easier.
44 giftguideonline.com.au
in focus
Comment Boxwrong pic, goes with import ants
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March 2019  45
continued from page 27
Make it insta-worthy
Pin it
There are two ways you can make Instagram and
Create a special Mother’s Day board on your
Facebook work for you during Mother’s Day
Pinterest page. You can keep it simple and
promotions. You can take beautiful images of
showcase the products you are selling for
the products on offer for this special day and
Mother’s Day. These can be organised into
share them with your followers, or if you have
categories or colours, for example, or you can
a special event organised share a video of the
change the theme each day in the week leading
preparations to get people excited about it. Alternatively you can ask your followers to send in pics of their mums and create a competition around it. For example, they can win a Mother’s Day gift pack which encourages people to enter while at the same time you can promote the specials you have in your store. 46 giftguideonline.com.au
marketing
up to Mother’s Day. You can also make it more
great for short quips or anecdotes about mum.
interactive and invite customers to participate
On day one you can offer prizes for the best
into creating a Mother’s Day board featuring
tweet about mum, the next day you can pick
gifts they made themselves in previous years or
the best Instagram photo of mum. The day after
gifts they received that come with a great story.
that you can award the best post about mum on
This way you create a buzz around your store
Facebook and you keep going until Mother’s Day.
and make sure you’re top of mind when they are
I have an idea
looking for a gift this Mother’s Day or any other
In the lead-up to Mother’s Day create daily
special occasion that might come up.
lists of gifts. If you are offering a wide variety of
Give it away
products you can publish a list each day with a
People love giveaways! If you have multiple social
different theme. Make sure you use all your social
media platforms you can tailor your contests to
media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram
these sites. For example, Snapchat and Facebook
and Pinterest to give you as much exposure as
are perfect for posting photos and videos, while
possible―people that are on Facebook might
Instagram is all about beautiful images. Twitter is
not be on Instagram and vice versa.
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March 2019 47
continued from page 29
2 Now you see me
3 Be social
Window displays are a great way to draw
Social media is such a great platform to create
attention to a special occasion such as Mother’s
excitement around a special event without
Day. They will make (potential) customers
breaking the bank. Beautiful images of what you
want to walk into the store to check out your
have on offer will work well on Instagram, while
merchandise. Don’t start too early though as
creating a Mother’s Day board on Pinterest will
you could lose the momentum too soon, and if
give you an opportunity to share gift ideas, tips
you can, change your visual merchandising as
and other things that relate to Mother’s Day.
often as possible to keep it fresh and attract new customers to your store.
48 giftguideonline.com.au
Facebook is great for running competitions as you can include videos and get your customers
instore
excited about what’s to come. Creating a buzz
marketing ploy. People like getting things for
about something very special that you have
‘free’. The good thing is, they can either gift
coming up will always get people’s interest.
it as a present or keep it for themselves, and
4 Wrap it up
retailers will be able to get rid of some slow
One of the advantages of a bricks and mortar
moving stock―it’s a win win for all!
store is you can offer additional services such as
6 I’ve got something to tell you
gift wrapping. If customers have the choice out
Let all your loyal customers know about any
of a few retailers, offering something extra might
great offers you are running for Mother’s Day
persuade them to choose your store.
with a targeted email campaign. Start well in
Considering that many customers do their
advance and send out reminders, however,
shopping at the last minute, a service like free
make sure you don’t bombard them–it might
gift wrapping will be just what you need to get
have the opposite effect.
them across and into your store!
Also, decide on the message you want to
5 Oh goodie!
bring across. It needs to be clear what you’re
Offering a free goodie bag when customers
promoting so when it comes time to buy a gift
spend over a certain amount of dollars is a great
they will think of your store first.
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March 2019 49
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