Gift Shop Magazine - Unique Giftware Ideas

GIFT SHOP Magazine's 2008 Ultimate Makeover

admin — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 13:40:23 -0500

It was the letter that sealed the case. When GIFT SHOP announced an open call for entries for its 2008 Ultimate Makeover Contest, all the entries we received were equally compelling. But one letter, written by Kountry Nook's staff member, Scarlet Coers, made the case even more eloquently. Coers argued that her storeowner Mary Haynes had been through a trying year and that winning the makeover would be a richly deserved "surprise of a lifetime." And a surprise it sure was!

Trending Up: Fall 2008

admin — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 11:55:13 -0500

Baby Bunch Onesie Cupcake gift sets are bundled as cupcakes and packaged in colorful, see-through polka dot "bakery" boxes. Each set features 100% cotton onesies in either pink, blue, yellow or white for infants ages 0-6 months (or up to 16 pounds). All cupcake bakery boxes arrive tied with a ribbon bearing a gift tag so there is no need for additional gift-wrapping. 877.456.2229

Weddings Showcase

admin — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 11:39:09 -0500

Bonnie Marcus Collection Mini canvas totes from Bonnie Marcus are embroidered with signature wedding motifs. Matching flip flops also available. 203.341.0701

Tabletop Showcase

admin — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 11:33:00 -0500

Annieglass Watery blue handcrafted glass creations are from the Ultramarine collection. Each Annieglass piece is individually handcrafted through a unique "slumping" process. Slumping takes place in a fiery kiln where a sheet of flat glass is melted over a mold and fired at high temperatures. This gives the glass a special translucent, textured finish. Dishwasher safe when used with a mild detergent. Not for oven or microwave use. 888.761.0050

Primitives Showcase

admin — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 11:24:42 -0500

Blossom Bucket These products from Blossom Bucket are designed by the artist Barbara Lloyd. The largest box in the collection measures 7"H. 330.834.2551

Global Goods

admin — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:07:36 -0500

Socially responsible consumerism The way Laura Wendell tells it, when customers buy her store's offerings, there are three factors that work together to seal the deal: the products are beautiful; they are functional and well-made; and they have an associated feel-good factor. Wendell sells thousands of fair trade products made around the world, through her store One World Market based in Durham, NC. Wendell knows her customers like beautiful products but pretty alone is not enough.

From Smiles to Sales

admin — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:49:54 -0500

Why humor is a hit Humor sells. Arguably nobody knows this better than retailer Rosanne Brown whose store, Venice Stationers, caters to a retirement community in Venice, FL. Brown finds a little light-heartedness always works. Case in point is one of the many products in her store that capitalize on humor: a book "1,000 Unforgettable Senior Moments: Of Which We Could Remember Only 246" by New York-based Workman Publishing Company, Inc.

Permanent Botanicals: Make Your Profits Blossom!

admin — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:42:09 -0500

Smarty Plants J M. H. Schwanke, a floral industry expert, believes the word "permanent" is a better qualifier for the stunning and gorgeous variety of flowers, bushes and greenery sold by many wholesalers. The care and detail that go into creating these permanent botanicals merit a better word than "artificial" or "fake," Schwanke says. By all indications Schwanke is right. From orchids to cacti, from tropical bushes to stems of dahlias, from Christmas greens to spring blossoms, there are permanent botanicals available for every season, taste and budget.

Fab Finds: Fall 2008

admin — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:23:31 -0500

Daddy’s BBQAward-winning company features barbecue rubs and sauces. Sauce flavors include brown sugar and honey and sweet and spicy. The rubs, which are all natural, are available in two flavors: Sweet Love Original and Sweet Love Chicken. 888.932.3397

Trending Up: Summer 2008

admin — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 22:48:39 -0500

AuerhahnStainless steel oil and vinegar set has a matte finish. 51/2" width and 8" height. Designed with a hidden stopper to give precise pouring. 800.999.6347