Gift & Home Today

Decorative pillows have scenes of NYC, Rome, Paris

2012-01-27T06:43:00.000-06:00

Kevin O'Brien Studio will be showing these and other pillows at the New York International Gift Fair on Pier 94.The pillows are made of 100% cotton and use the company's original artwork printed on both sides. Sizes are 14 inches by 20 inches and 20 inches by 20 inches.
The new pillows include: New York Bryant Park, Opera, Rome Piazza and Paris Cafe.

Contemporary wall sconce

2012-01-26T06:35:00.003-06:00

Besa Lighting’s new Optos sconce incorporates a unique dual lens design. Interchangeable optical glass lenses offer a variety of accent lighting possibilities. Domed flood lens options include clear, frosted, warm dichroic and cool dichroic. Available lens sets offer “mix and match” options. The Optos sconce swivels at the mount, offering directional accent lighting capability. This unique luminaire utilizes 40W G9 Halogen 120V lamping, and is available in brushed or polished aluminum.

Besa Lighting designs and manufactures decorative lighting solutions that utilize fine handcrafted glass. Besa Lighting provides a myriad of unique luminaire styles, colors, metal finishes and energy-efficient lamping options to both residential and commercial customers.

Cut the Clutter: Getting Organized in The New Year

2012-01-13T06:00:00.001-06:00

How are those New Year's resolutions working out for you?

If you can't see your home decor because of the clutter, you need help. Consider these ideas:

1. Only touch a piece of mail once: Sounds simple enough, but if you only touch a piece of mail once – either to file it away or throw it away – you won’t have extra papers piling up. Use a file folder to keep track of mail you do need: bills, work documents, letters and cards, coupons, etc. Then toss unwanted mail in the recycling bin.
2. Make a plan to plan: Your smartphone calendar is great, but it helps to write appointments and reminders down with a pen or pencil. Use an agenda or planner as a physical reminder of your busy schedule.
3. Pick a closet theme: No matter your personal preference, organize your closet by “theme.” Hang clothes, shoes and accessories by specific categories like designer, color, style or purpose.

Read two more great ideas on the A Bullseye View blog by Target. See:
Cut the Clutter: Getting Organized in The New Year

Boutique Design New York saw increase in buyers

2012-01-12T20:41:00.002-06:00

More than 4,600 buyers packed the aisles for the second annual Boutique Design New York trade fair, an increase of 61% over 2010 registration, according to the organizer, GLM shows.

Co-located with the 96th annual International Hotel, Motel + Restaurant Show, BDNY featured 200+ exhibitors of high-end FF&E for hospitality interiors, attracting designers, architects and purchasing execs, as well as owners and operators who attend the IHMRS.

"This show has a very discerning audience," said designer and trend forecaster Stacy Garcia, who curated the Show's Trend Walk installation. "We're talking about a group of people who are educated, who know what it means to have a design aesthetic, who know what good design is, where the influences come from. These are the movers and shakers of the industry."Watch a short video round-up of the show.

New contest from Midwest-CBK, Colonial Candles

2011-12-16T06:41:00.002-06:00

TRAVEL THE WORLD WITH MIDWEST-CBK AND COLONIAL CANDLE’S “PASSPORT TO SUCCESS” CONTEST AND EVENTS

press release

Pack your suitcase and prepare to travel the world! Midwest-CBK and Colonial Candle invite retailers to enter its first “Passport to Success” sweepstakes and events during winter 2012 markets. Two winners will be chosen to receive their choice of a trip to romantic Paris, France, or a relaxing tropical getaway to Nassau, Bahamas.

To enter, retailers simply visit any Midwest-CBK and Colonial Candle showroom during winter markets, request a passport from a company representative, and visit designated destination themes throughout the showroom to have their passport stamped. No purchase is necessary to enter or to win.

Retailers can enter the “Passport to Success” sweepstakes in any Midwest-CBK showroom during the winter market show time periods. Midwest-CBK showrooms are located in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, and Seattle. In addition, retailers are invited to join Midwest-CBK and Colonial Candle to celebrate and enjoy food, cocktails, music and entertainment inspired by Paris and the Caribbean during upcoming winter markets including:

Atlanta, Building One, Suite 16A7: Friday, Jan. 13 and Saturday, Jan. 14 from 4 to 8 p.m.
Seattle, Suite 133 & 134: Friday, Jan. 13 from 3 to 7 p.m., and Saturday, Jan. 27 from 3 to 7 p.m.
Dallas, Suite 407 & 409: Friday, Jan. 20 from 3 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, Jan. 21 from 3 to 6 p.m.
Chicago, Suite 13-155 & 13-152: Saturday, Jan. 21 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Las Vegas, Building C, Suite 999: Monday, Jan. 30 from 2 to 5 p.m.

Each prize includes round-trip air transportation for winner and one guest to their choice of Paris, France or Nassau, Bahamas, plus four nights double occupancy hotel accommodation and transfers for an approximate retail value of $5,000 for each prize package. Two prize winners will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible entries received during the winter markets. The drawing will be conducted and winners will be notified and announced in mid-February.

For more information or to view contest rules, visit www.mwcbk.com/t-passporttosuccess.aspx or call 800-394-4225.

About Midwest-CBK
Midwest-CBK, a national design leader in holiday, gifts for home, garden and giving, is proud to bring independent retailers more Design, Style and Sparkle than ever before, through exclusive designs and best-selling formats. New introductions feature excellent prices and terms designed to boost your margins; an experienced, dedicated sales team to assist you at the store level; award-winning display ideas; a drop ship program to provide incremental décor sales; website providing 24/7 access to account history and online ordering.

Based in Charleston, South Carolina, Midwest-CBK parent company MVP Group International designs, manufactures and markets an extensive line of holiday, seasonal and everyday gifts and decor, and candles and home fragrance products under the Colonial Candle® brand.

Please call 800-394-4225, visit www.mwcbk.com or contact your local Midwest-CBK account manager for more information, to request a catalog or to locate a showroom near you.

Decorating ideas to warm up every room in an apartment

2011-12-15T06:00:00.000-06:00

The following was submitted by Apartment Finder.

President of Apartment Finder, Marcia Bollinger, offers the following low-cost but high-impact solutions to warming up every room in your apartment:

In the living room

· Get some candles or potpourri in the scents of the season. Think spicy, rustic, with a hint or cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus. Just be careful not to have too many scents, or you’ll be overpowered with fragrance.

· Replace lightweight, summery curtains with warmer, heavier drapes in a color that suits the season, such as burgundy, orange, green, gold, or brown.

· Add pillows and throws to the couch and chair – think rich, warm fabrics such as chenille and cashmere.

· Even swap out wall decorations – take down the beach print and hang a painting of a cozy cottage.

In the kitchen

· Add candles with delicious scents – such as freshly-baked cookies - to warm up the kitchen.

· Add textures such as a throw rug, slipcovers on your barstools, or some thick placemats and linen napkins with decorative napkin rings.

In the dining room

· Find a warm tablecloth in a deep red, teal, gold, or green. If you can’t find a tablecloth, try using a blanket.

· Make a centerpiece for the table: find a rich-hued charger, place a pillar candle in the center, and surround the candle with pinecones or cranberries.

· Add small throw pillows to your dining room chairs.

In the bedroom

· Trade your lightweight spread for a thick down comforter. Add several extra blankets in complementary colors and load up the bed with plenty of pillows.

· Swap lightweight curtains for thick, warm curtains in here, as well.

· Think natural and add rattan, wicker, and wood decorations.

· Swap out your summer wardrobe for your winter one. If you don’t have a lot of storage space, utilize the space under the bed. Plastic bins that slide under your bed are perfect for storing lightweight shoes and clothing. Or, make your own using wooden boxes – just attach a caster to each corner.

In the bathroom: Don’t forget this space!

· Add sink-your-toes-into-them rugs, a thick, warm bathrobe, fuzzy slippers, scented lotions, candles, towels and wash cloths in rich, warm tones and maybe even a towel warmer!

· Switch to a fabric shower curtain.

· If you are allowed to paint, this little space is the perfect place to add some warm color to the walls.

Now curl up with a fuzzy blanket and a mug of hot cocoa to enjoy your warm, cozy retreat! For even more information, inspiration and discussion on apartment living, décor and hunting, visit Apartment Finder’s blog, The APT.

Transitional furniture to see at Atlanta, Vegas shows

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

Massoud creative director Ronna Griest will showcase her newest color stories during the upcoming Winter 2012 Gift and Home Markets in Atlanta and Las Vegas.

SOFA IN ORIENTALIA WHITE

First shown at the autumn High Point furniture market, her persimmon/papaya/mango and pewter/flax/zinc stories are reflected on many of the upholstered furniture company’s newest designs on view in the Ambella Home Showroom, space 14A-2 at AmericasMart Atlanta and in the Dillon-Wells showroom, space A120 at the World Market Center.

SETTEE IN PARSON FLAX

"With our newest designs, I looked to clean, transitional lines to reflect a sense of understated, simple elegance,” explains Griest. “For color, I focused on a grey family of zinc, pewter and flax tones to create a natural story and bright persimmon, mango and papaya hues to reflect a warm, rich color story."

Wine rack displays bottles as 'art'

2011-12-13T06:00:00.000-06:00

A wine rack from Pack & Rack in Sweden is a made of solid oak and steel. The set is treated with cold-pressed linseed-oil in order to bring out the natural veining, luster and beauty of the material.

Premium candle fragrances debut at Atlanta gift show

2011-12-12T06:00:00.000-06:00

The Marrakesh collection

Colonial Candle is introducing three new collections for everyday and holiday.

The Collection by Colonial Candle is the name of a new luxury fragrance collection. The line features three-wick 16-ounce candles available in five exclusive scents. The trend-driven fragrances include Gardenia and Peony, Red Currant and Quince, White Jasmine and Freesia, Seagrass and Papyrus and Ebonywood and Nectarine.

Featuring contemporary color glass containers with a four-color foil logo, each candle is packaged in a gift box. Fragrances include:

Gardenia and Peony: A sophisticated floral bouquet of fresh bergamot, Tahitian gardenia, and pink peony petals.
White Jasmine and Freesia: A soothing blend of delicate jasmine and sweet freesia wrapped in sheer musk.
Seagrass and Papyrus: A sensual medley of sea salted greens, wild vetiver, and oceanic moss.
Red Currant and Quince: An intriguing aroma of ripe red currant blended with pure sun-blushed quince and lush greens.
Ebonywood and Nectarine: A luxurious creation of juicy peach nectar and apricot with a touch of ebonywood warmth.

The new Destinations fragrance collection is said to be "evocative of renowned locations across the globe, including the luxurious island getaway of St. Barths, the summertime bliss of Cape Cod, and the allure of exotic Marrakesh."

The St. Barths Spring Collection consists of four fragrances called Topaz Waters, Cocoa Plum, Coral Hibiscus and Melon Mojito. Cape Cod Summer and Marrakesh are other collections in the Destinations collection.

A fall and holiday collection has 10 fragrances.


The fall and holiday collection

Each of these three Destinations segments includes four exclusive fragrances designed to transport you to each destination. All Destinations fragrances are available in 22-ounce, 8-ounce and 3.5-ounce signature oval jars, as well as glass votives.

These new collections will debut in showrooms across the country during winter 2012 markets, with delivery available starting in March.


The Atlanta showroom

Chicago, Minneapolis showrooms carry new lines

2011-12-11T09:17:00.001-06:00

DNA announced a roster of new lines available at The Chicago Market Living and Giving, (Jan. 19-25) and the Minneapolis Gift Show (Jan. 20-24). The lines are:

Art Studio Company (IL, IN, MI, MN, ND, SD, WI)
Fig Designs (IL, IN, MN, ND, SD, WI)
Lug (MI, IN, IL, WI)
Nisha Designs (IL, IN, MI, MN, ND, SD, WI)
Novo Beads (IL, IN, MI, MN, ND, SD, WI)
Root Candles (IL, IN)
Signature Tumblers (IL, IN, MI, MN, ND, SD, WI)
Skidders (IL, IN, MI)
Up With Paper (IL, IN, MI)
Westland Giftware Inc (IL, IN, MI)

"We're always looking for new trends to meet the consumer demand and we continually add to the product lines and categories that DNA offers," says Dennis Nemcek, president, DNA. "By adding new vendors to our already-strong roster of companies, we make sure that we always deliver the best-of-the-best to our buyers," Nemcek continues.

New bedding in transitional styles

2011-12-07T06:35:00.001-06:00

The outdoor apparel manufacturer Woolrich Inc. showed five new bedding collections at the autumn market in High Point. The ensembles combine fresh palettes with traditional styles, all inspired by Woolrich archives. A six-piece queen set includes two Euro shams, two standard shams, duvet and bed skirt. Woolrich also exhibited new decorative pillows.

The ensembles are named Bear Creek, Tyoga River, Shady Grove, Grand Canyon and Allegheny Forest.

Teak branches form a Haystack lamp

2011-12-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

Groovystuff's additions to its Antares lighting collection include the 52-inch-tall Haystack Lamp, a unique shadow floor lamp inspired by farmers of the Midwest.

"The Haystack shadow lamp was inspired by the hand bailing techniques of the mid century farmer and is designed specifically to take the grittiness of the old organic movement and soften that earth-crunchy look into a more elegant and sophisticated product," says president Chris Bruning.

Sustainably harvested teak branches provide the framework for the Haystack Lamp and low wattage lighting illuminates the lamp with twig shadowing. The flat, lacquer finish, and unique hourglass shape of the Haystack Lamp give the piece a modern and sophisticated look.

See the lamp and other new additions to the Antares lighting collection at the following market in January 2012:

Americas Mart, Atlanta, January 13-17, 2012, Groovystuff University Hall of Innovation and Job Creation, Building 1, 7th Floor, Showroom # H12-18
Dallas Market Center, January 18-24, 2012, Groovystuff University Hall of Innovation and Job Creation, Showroom # 6642
Las Vegas World Market, Las Vegas, January 30 – February 3, 2012, Showroom # B-146

Smart details in youth furniture

2011-12-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

The Smartstuff line of youth furniture offers what the maker calls "an innovative combination of great styling, better construction, strategic pricing and game-changing smart features not currently found in youth furniture."

Smartstuff is available from Universal Furniture International Inc.At the autumn 2011 High Point Market, Universal introduced four collections, called Classics 4.0, Freestyle, Gabriella and RoughHouse.

Shown below are some of special features and options available.

The Snake Light is built into the bed to allow for ease of use when more light is needed.

The Flip Top Desks are patented and provide extra electrical outlets for charging capabilities.

The Nightstand-in-the-Sky attaches to any bed or bunk for extra shelf space.

30+ new handmade exhibitors at NY gift show

2011-12-04T11:31:00.001-06:00

NYIGF’S HANDMADE WELCOMES 30+ NEWCOMERS TO WINTER MARKET

Press release

WHITE PLAINS, NY, December 2, 2011... Based on their innovative design ideas, some 30+ craft artisans and global suppliers have been accepted to exhibit in the winter 2012 edition of Handmade® at New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®). The Fair showcases 475 artisans and suppliers of handcrafts in two distinct sections -- Handmade Designer Maker and Handmade Global Design – which are categorized by process and provenance.

“Inspired design is one of the main criteria for acceptance into Handmade, and these newest participants have all shown new and innovative ideas in form and function,” said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. “Whether they work with metal, textiles or ceramics, these artisans are exploring exciting new boundaries.”

Handmade Designer Maker, located in Javits Center North, will showcase 340 limited-production makers across all categories and media resources from around the world. Newcomers to the winter 2012 edition of Handmade Designer Maker include 17 artisans newly accepted by the selection committee, along with several other artisans returning to Handmade following a hiatus from the New York market:

AIDAI (felt and silk scarves);
Atlantic Art Glass (jewelry and decorative accessories);
Bonnie Neil (wood and textile home décor);
CHART metalworks (metal jewelry);
Chikahisa Studio (stone and metal jewelry);
Ecka & Pecka (greeting cards);
Feutre Couture (eco-friendly felt accessories);
Fleet Objects (ceramics, lighting and home accessories);
Frankie Slaughter (textile personal accessories);
Heather Guidero Jewelry (metal jewelry);
Jean-Pierre Weill Studio (framed wall art);
Jeanine Payer (metal jewelry with inscribed poetry);
Michael Vincent Michaud (metal jewelry);
Myfriendroze (metal jewelry);
Pretty Snappy Designs (aprons);
Pyrrha Design Inc. (metal jewelry);
Raging Bowl Pottery (porcelain serving ware);
Peg & Awl (recycled leather, wood and paper home décor and gifts); S
tick Candles (beeswax candles);
Tasha McKelvey LLC (ceramic tableware); and
The Candi Factory (apparel and undergarments).

Judges for Handmade Designer Maker included Elizabeth Garvin of Elizabeth Garvin; Ellen Corsell of the Heron American Craft Gallery; Gail Garcia of Dinner-ware.com; Justin Thomas of Ugone & Thomas; and Matt Jaros of The Glass Onion.

Handmade Global Design will welcome seven newcomers to its collection of 135 import resources with a focus on good design, traditional craftsmanship and community. Companies accepted to the winter NYIGF are:

Africa Now! (product lines from several West African suppliers);
Global Goods Partners (personal accessories, home décor and stationery from Asia, Africa and Americas);
MAKAUA SA de CV (baskets made in Mexico);
Modelli Creations (home accessories and furnishings from India); and
Snow Leopard Trust (felt toys, accessories and home décor made in Central Asia ).

In addition, a contingent of Bolivian companies, featuring fine alpaca, leather and wood products, will be introduced by Fundacion Nuevo Norte-Walisuma during the winter 2012 market.

Judges for Handmade Global Design included Alden Smith of Aid to Artisans; Colvin English of ByHand Consulting; Ellen Dorsch of Creative Women; Jasperdean Kobes of Bamboula Ltd.; Leslie Mittelberg of Swahili Imports; and Phyllis Woods of Tribalinks.

Beyond exhibits, NYIGF will offer craft retailers numerous educational seminars and informal round table discussions on timely business topics. Bruce Baker, retail columnist for The Crafts Report, will present two sessions at the Javits Center on Saturday, January 28. During “Dynamic Sales & Customer Service,” retailers will learn how to increase customer loyalty and repeat business through the four phases of a sale. In his second session, “Show and Sell! Visual Merchandising & Display,” Baker will provide tips for increasing sales through in-store signage, product placement and visual merchandising. Tickets for these sessions are $20 in advance and $25 onsite, or $30 in advance and $40 onsite for both.

NYIGF also will continue its partnership with CRAFT (Craft Retailers and Artists for Tomorrow) to produce free “CRAFT Power Hour” roundtables for craft retailers on January 29, 30 and 31. The series of nine interactive sessions will be lead by veteran craft retailers and artists who will share their tips for business success. The topics will cover social media, websites and e-newsletters, public relations strategies and in-store events. Information and registration for these events is available online at www.nyigf.com/programs.

For more than 25 years, Handmade has offered buyers an extensive selection of handcrafted items across such categories as tabletop, ceramics, textiles, home décor, jewelry and apparel. Handmade at NYIGF features 475 artisans from 40 American states and 14 countries worldwide. The winter edition takes place Saturday, January 28, through Wednesday, February 1, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center .NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. The winter market takes place Saturday, January 28, through Thursday, February 2, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

DreamSurfer: another reason to stay in bed

2011-11-28T06:00:00.000-06:00

"DreamSurfer" is an innovative bed that marries the features of an upscale recliner and a luxurious bed. Armrests fold-down for extra comfort and support. Folding down from the headboard is a center console with matching cup holders and a power station that includes ports for an iPod dock, USB power and flash cards.

Three speakers—two on each side and one in the center—serenade one to sleep. The top of the headboard flips up revealing two practical reading lights.

DreamSurfer is a product from SLF, the strategic marketing unit of Home Meridian International. It showed the furniture at the autumn 2011 High Point market.

"Since so much reading and TV viewing or done in the bedroom, we wanted to create a bed designed for those purposes" said Guy Walters, Vice President of New Product Development for SLF. “We called it ‘DreamSurfer’ because that is what Millenials do. They surf channels, the internet, and the radio. This turns the bedroom into an oasis for relaxation when you want to sleep in on the weekend or just unwind after a long day at the office.”

Las Vegas souvenir show reports 21+% increase in traffic

2011-11-27T20:02:00.001-06:00

SEPTEMBER 2011 LAS VEGAS SOUVENIR & RESORT GIFT SHOW RECORDS 21.4% ATTENDANCE INCREASE; ATTRACTS INDUSTRY'S PREMIER RETAILERS

The National Souvenir Show's Expanded Selection, Extended Date Pattern,$15.99 Hotel Rates Attract Increasing Numbers Of Buyers From Around Country

Press release

ATLANTA (September 28, 2011) - The September 20-23, 2011 edition of the Las Vegas Souvenir and Resort Gift Show recorded a 21.4 % increase in attendance over the 2010 edition. Drawn by the show's extensive, targeted product selection, show-sponsored hotel rates starting as low as $15.99, and a growing reputation as the "must-attend" national industry event, souvenir and resort buyers from casinos, theme parks, museums, zoos, aquariums and premier tourist destinations flocked to the sixth annual edition at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

"This marks the show's third straight year of significant attendance increases and I attribute this growth to the wonderful feedback we continue to receive from our exhibitors and buyers," explains Doug Miller, president, Urban Expositions. "When we launched this show six years ago, our goal was to create a national event that truly catered to the specialized business needs of the souvenir and resort industry. From requests to extend the show dates, to input on ways to fine-tine and enhance the show floor selection, we have worked hard to act upon industry suggestions to ensure that we are offering the very best possible business and networking event."

More than 20% larger than the 2010 edition, the 2011 Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show was extended from three to four days to give buyers the extra time needed to explore new resources after completing long appointments and detailed product development meetings with vendors. Bringing together more than 1000 booths, the show highlighted the newest designs and introductions from top-name brands and innovative newcomers in destination, resort and tourist merchandise, souvenirs, t-shirts, beach items, coastal and nautical, lake, mountain and lodge, ski-themed products, logo products, shell items, giftware, jewelry/fashion accessories, toys/games and more.

The additional time and expanded selection received rave reviews from attending retailers.

"We love working this show and the extra day has been a tremendous benefit," explained Terri Scheunemann, Como Zoo & Conservatory, St . Paul, MN.

"The show's timing is also perfect in that it gives us time for product development for the next season.""This is the only show that can get us to leave our stores during our busy season," added Dave Coates, Skagway Mining, Ketchikan, AK. "This is simply the show you must attend."

"This has become the show I do the majority of my buying from, " agreed Lisa Racutt, M&K Enterprises, Las Vegas. "This year was the best ever."

"I loved exploring the expanded selection. This show brings together the top notch people at the top of the game," noted Lorraine Massey, Multnomah Falls Lodge, Troutdale, OR.

Exhibitors reports of brisk order-writing and new business added to the buzz on the show floor.

"This show, by far, has the best qualified buyers in the industry," explained Pablo Merlo Flores, Pampeana. "It's one of the least expensive shows to attend with the highest quality of buyer orders ..always."

"We've had great traffic at this show," added John Potts, Duck Company. "It's been an excellent show and we've seen a good mix of buyers from everywhere."

"The show improves by leaps and bounds every year," said Bruce Miller, Karol Western. "No souvenir buyer should miss it!"

Further strengthening the growing buyer base, Urban Expositions worked with leading industry associations like the National Association of Retail Buyers (NARB), the Zoo & Aquarium Buyers Group (ZAG) and others to host seminars, hospitality and networking events for their members during the show.

The next edition will be held September 11-14, 2012 in Hall C of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Urban Expositions management team is already working on programs and promotions to ensure the show's continued growth. Urban will continue to invest a significant part of the show's marketing budget to buy down hotel rates at quality properties to once again offer rates starting in the $15.99 range.

In addition to maintaining the four-day date pattern, Urban will also work to continue enhancing the show's product depth in a number of categories identified by the show's retail advisory board, including more gourmet food products, books/publishers and other souvenir/resort niche items. Exhibitor/Attendee Information

For exhibitor information, contact Lisa Glosson, Urban Expositions, 1690 Roberts Blvd, NW, Suite 111, Kennesaw, GA 30144. Phone: 678.370.0334, e-mail: lglosson@urban-expo.com.

For buyer information or to register, attendees can contact Briana Mackey at bmackey@urban-expo.com or Jhana Jordan at jjordan@urban-expo.com or call 800.318.2238 or visit www.lvsouvenirshow.com.

Table lamps with gold, silver bases

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-06:00

The Bubble lamp

Nova showed its new Matrimony collection at the October High Point Market. The portable table and floor lamps feature a modern twist on traditional wedding bands. Nova featured the new designs alongside a host of other lighting, home accent and wall décor introductions.

From the Matrimony collection

Matrimony collection

Cozzolino wins Las Vegas design award

2011-11-14T19:50:00.001-06:00

By Las Vegas Design Center

Las Vegas, NV -- Las Vegas Design Center (LVDC) is proud to recognize Kelley Cozzolino from Bigelow Interiors as the winner of its inaugural Design of the Year award.

Cardiff Cottage by Bigelow Interiors

The first-of-its-kind local design competition was created to recognize excellence in design among Southern Nevada interior designers and design students.Cozzolino was recognized for her Cottage in Cardiff remodel.

According to Randy Wells, VP of LVDC and one of the judges for the competition, "Kelley and her team did an exceptional job of ensuring there was strong continuity throughout the home. She kept the original cottage structure yet transformed the interior to ensure it was up-to-date and comfortable. This competition was created to inspire designers, and it's been inspiring to see the depth of talent in our local design community."

Seven judges, consisting of select LVDC showroom owners and managers along with World Market Center Las Vegas senior management, juried the submissions and ultimately awarded Cozzolino the grand prize during an awards luncheon at LVDC featuring cuisine from Mundo on Thursday, November 10.

"I'm thrilled to win this competition. What an amazing experience," said Cozzolino. "I'm very passionate about design and appreciate that LVDC has pioneered this competition to pay homage to local designers."

LVDC also recognized the third and second place winners, along with the winner of the student category.

Third place was awarded to Heather Soto and Michelle Dimauro from Inhabit Design for their project, Lock Residence Addition.
Second place was awarded to Alice Roussos from Interior Motives for her project, Meyer's Residence.
The winner of the student category was given to Divina-Grace Balazo, a student at UNLV's School of Interior Design & Architecture, for her conceptual design of an Aveda store in Cape Town, South Africa.

As the winner of the competition, Cozzolino received a VIP weekend for two at the luxurious Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hill, California.

All winners received engraved crystal awards from Tiffany & Co.For additional information on this and other LVDC programs, please visit www.lvdesigncenter.com

About Las Vegas Design Center at World Market Center Las Vegas
Sitting at the epicenter of the world's fastest growing home furnishings complex, Las Vegas Design Center (LVDC) at World Market Center Las Vegas, an IMC property, is a year-round resource for design-seeking consumers and designers showcasing top names in fine furniture, decorative accessories, wall décor, lighting, floor coverings, fabrics and trim. Open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., LVDC boasts hundreds of leading manufacturers' lines.

An important source of education for the industry, Las Vegas Design Center also attracts many of the industry's most prominent thought leaders to its comprehensive slate of seminars, networking receptions and other sought-after events. Las Vegas Design Center is home to the restaurant Mundo, A Culinary Haute Spot.

For more information, visit www.lvdesigncenter.com.World Market Center Las Vegas is a property of International Market Centers, L.P. (IMC), the world's largest operator of premier showroom space for the furnishings, home décor and gift industries.International Market Centers owns and operates 11.5 million square feet of world-class exhibition space in High Point, N.C. and Las Vegas. IMC's mission is to build and operate an innovative, sustainable, profitable and scalable platform for the furnishings, home décor and gift industries. For more information on IMC, visit www.imcenters.com

Transitional furniture for living room, dining room

2011-11-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

Habersham showed newest additions to its American Treasures collection at the October 2011 High Point Market. The pieces are said to feature clean, simple design lines and transitional styling at moderate price points.

The Tribeca dining table (top photo) includes a 24-inch self-storing leaf that can extend the table’s length from 90 inches to 114 inches.

The Nine-Drawer chest (above) blends classical lines with understated elegance.

The North Sea chest has an adjustable shelf behind the front doors.

The Home Theatre is available with or without doors.

The Fairmont chest has 14 drawers, providing plentiful storage space for linens, tableware and other items. Search "Habersham" on this blog to find more furniture.

Decorative pillows for a contemporary decor

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

Kevin O'Brien Studio celebrates its 25th anniversary with a collection of new pillows. Two of the items are shown here: Black Swan (top) and Elephant (above), part of the Hand Shadows line. The gray and white prints are on white cotton. The swan pillow measures 20 inches by 20 inches; the elephant is 14 inches by 14 inches. The company also produces rugs, throws and stuffed animals.

Bedroom furniture designed for girls

2011-11-08T06:17:00.002-06:00

Gabriella is a new collection of bedroom furniture from Universal Furniture International. It is part of the company's SmartStuff division of youth furniture that accommodates the technology found in children's rooms. Features include charging stations for phones and iPads, lighting, organizers and storage.
Gabriella offers four bed designs: low post, panel, sleigh and bunk. The entire collection consists of about 25 pieces. It was shown at the High Point furniture market in October.

Cheval storage mirror

Hutch with shelves

Desk and cheval

Full panel bed

Manual Woodworkers & Weavers celebrates 80 years

2011-11-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

Manual Woodworkers & Weavers will celebrate 80 years of American design in 2012. Four generations of the Oates family have produced made-in-America home accessories, including rugs, throws and gifts. The family-owned business, which began as a small souvenir store in Bat Cave, N.C., today occupies over 500,000 square feet of state-of-the-art manufacturing and distribution space in the mountains of western North Carolina.
The company will celebrate its anniversary with customers at the Atlanta International Gift Show (showroom in Building 2, West Wing, Suite 697) and at its new location at the Dallas Home & Gift Show (Trade Mart, Suite 1355).

High Point's best showrooms

2011-11-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

High Point Market Exhibitors Recognized for Display Excellence

in Showroom Design Competition

By the High Point Market Authority

High Point, NC , Oct. 24, 2011 —The home furnishings industry’s annual showcase for excellence in showroom design culminated tonight with the presentation of two awards honoring the High Point Market’s most creative and innovative exhibitors.

On the Stars Under the Stars stage, High Point Market Authority COO Tammy Nagem presented High Point Market exhibitor Red Egg (415 W. High Ave) with the prestigious Best of Market Award in the High Point Market Showroom Design Competition.

The award singles out the best display for Fall 2011 as determined by a jury of respected industry editors. The panel of judges for the annual event included Margaret Russell, editor in chief of Architectural Digest; iconic designer and architect David Easton; and Tracy Bulla, senior product editor for Home Accents Today.

Red Egg was recognized by the judges for its serene display space and its use of accessories to layer a white-on-white palette.

According to the judges, runners up for the Best of Market award this season were:

C.R. Laine Furniture (IHFC H1004), and
BeeLine Home by Bunny Williams (310 North Hamilton St.).

For the People’s Choice Award, all marketgoers were invited to vote for their favorite showroom design via Twitter or text messaging. Judging criteria is left to the discretion of individual Market attendees.

This year’s People’s Choice Award winner, for the third year in a row, was Four Hands (Union Square 201). Runners up in the People’s Choice competition included Roweboat Art (430 N. Wrenn St.), and Dorya (200 Steele 144). Winning entrants in each category were presented with a crystal trophy cup for display in their showroom.

About the High Point Market Authority
The High Point Market Authority, www.highpointmarket.org, is the official organizer and sponsor of the High Point Market in High Point, N.C. Featuring an extensive selection of exhibitors spanning every category, style and price point and attracting thousands of visitors from more than 106 countries twice each year, the High Point Market is the driving force of the home furnishings industry

New bedding line from Barclay Butera

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

Interior designer Barclay Butera has created a wide range of luxury bedding and decorative pillows for Eastern Accents. The textiles are hand-crafted in Eastern Accents’ Chicago studio. The collection was shown at the furniture market in High Point in October.

Contemporary furnishings for the dining room

2011-11-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Ve buffet from Roberta Schilling's Moderna collection

The Ve buffet, open

At the High Point furniture market in October, Roberta Schilling showed the Leque dining table and the Ve buffet, two pieces from her Moderna Collection. The collection is marked by smooth metal, exotic woods, ﬁne leather and delicate ﬁbers which are cut into clean lines and striking shapes.

Leque dining table

Angela Adams designs on soy candles

2011-10-31T06:00:00.000-05:00

Artwork by the designer Angela Adams adorns soy candles by Crash. The designs are fired on the glass tumblers, becoming permanent, so that the glass can be reused after the candle has been consumed. The candles are made in the Chicago area, hand-poured using 100% natural soy wax, cotton wicks, and complex fragrances. The company calls itself the only candle company featuring artwork by prominent, contemporary designers on the candle itself. Crash natural soy candles also features art collections by Lotta Jansdotter, Zuz Design, and Binth.

2011-10-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

Calypso Studios offers a variety of pink-ribbon-themed items in October in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Attendance Up at Las Vegas Gift/Resort Show

2011-10-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

SEPTEMBER 2011 LAS VEGAS SOUVENIR & RESORT GIFT SHOW RECORDS 21.4% ATTENDANCE INCREASE; ATTRACTS INDUSTRY'S PREMIER RETAILERS

The National Souvenir Show's Expanded Selection, Extended Date Pattern,$15.99 Hotel Rates Attract Increasing Numbers Of Buyers From Around Country

By the Las Vegas Souvenir and Resort Gift Show
The September 20-23, 2011 edition of the Las Vegas Souvenir and Resort Gift Show recorded a 21.4 % increase in attendance over the 2010 edition. Drawn by the show's extensive, targeted product selection, show-sponsored hotel rates starting as low as $15.99, and a growing reputation as the "must-attend" national industry event, souvenir and resort buyers from casinos, theme parks, museums, zoos, aquariums and premier tourist destinations flocked to the sixth annual edition at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

"This marks the show's third straight year of significant attendance increases and I attribute this growth to the wonderful feedback we continue to receive from our exhibitors and buyers," explains Doug Miller, president, Urban Expositions. "When we launched this show six years ago, our goal was to create a national event that truly catered to the specialized business needs of the souvenir and resort industry. From requests to extend the show dates, to input on ways to fine-tine and enhance the show floor selection, we have worked hard to act upon industry suggestions to ensure that we are offering the very best possible business and networking event."

More than 20% larger than the 2010 edition, the 2011 Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show was extended from three to four days to give buyers the extra time needed to explore new resources after completing long appointments and detailed product development meetings with vendors. Bringing together more than 1000 booths, the show highlighted the newest designs and introductions from top-name brands and innovative newcomers in destination, resort and tourist merchandise, souvenirs, t-shirts, beach items, coastal and nautical, lake, mountain and lodge, ski-themed products, logo products, shell items, giftware, jewelry/fashion accessories, toys/games and more.The additional time and expanded selection received rave reviews from attending retailers.

"We love working this show and the extra day has been a tremendous benefit," explained Terri Scheunemann, Como Zoo & Conservatory, St . Paul, MN. "The show's timing is also perfect in that it gives us time for product development for the next season."

"This is the only show that can get us to leave our stores during our busy season," added Dave Coates, Skagway Mining, Ketchikan, AK. "This is simply the show you must attend."

"This has become the show I do the majority of my buying from, " agreed Lisa Racutt, M&K Enterprises, Las Vegas. "This year was the best ever."

"I loved exploring the expanded selection. This show brings together the top notch people at the top of the game," noted Lorraine Massey, Multnomah Falls Lodge, Troutdale, OR.

Exhibitors reports of brisk order-writing and new business added to the buzz on the show floor.

"This show, by far, has the best qualified buyers in the industry," explained Pablo Merlo Flores, Pampeana. "It's one of the least expensive shows to attend with the highest quality of buyer orders ..always."

"We've had great traffic at this show," added John Potts, Duck Company. "It's been an excellent show and we've seen a good mix of buyers from everywhere."

"The show improves by leaps and bounds every year," said Bruce Miller, Karol Western. "No souvenir buyer should miss it!"

Further strengthening the growing buyer base, Urban Expositions worked with leading industry associations like the National Association of Retail Buyers (NARB), the Zoo & Aquarium Buyers Group (ZAG) and others to host seminars, hospitality and networking events for their members during the show.

The next edition will be held September 11-14, 2012 in Hall C of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Urban Expositions management team is already working on programs and promotions to ensure the show's continued growth. Urban will continue to invest a significant part of the show's marketing budget to buy down hotel rates at quality properties to once again offer rates starting in the $15.99 range. In addition to maintaining the four-day date pattern, Urban will also work to continue enhancing the show's product depth in a number of categories identified by the show's retail advisory board, including more gourmet food products, books/publishers and other souvenir/resort niche items. Exhibitor/Attendee Information

For exhibitor information, contact Lisa Glosson, Urban Expositions, 1690 Roberts Blvd, NW, Suite 111, Kennesaw, GA 30144. Phone: 678.370.0334, e-mail: lglosson[at]urban-expo.com.

For buyer information or to register, attendees can contact Briana Mackey at bmackey[at]urban-expo.com or Jhana Jordan at jjordan[at]@urban-expo.com or call 800.318.2238 or visit www.lvsouvenirshow.com.

Record Attendance at New York Market

2011-10-02T14:30:00.000-05:00

7 W HOME FASHIONS MARKET WEEK DRAWS RECORD ATTENDANCE

A Well-Received Show Featuring New and Unique Product Offerings

By 7 W New York
Hot on the heels of a recent series of successful markets, 7 W New York hosted a rewarding and productive Home Fashions Market, September 19-23. The building’s entire roster of top-notch home fashion suites were ready for attendees, with a wide range of products from elegant classic to cutting-edge chic.

According to Chris Collins, VP & President, 7 W New York, "Our Home Fashions Market Week was an extraordinary success! Once again, we endured very difficult financial news right in the middle of the market. However, it seemed to have no effect on the good mood and positive approach that buyers and sellers displayed throughout the week. All reported a great market while showrooms across the board where thrilled with the results of the week’s meetings and the enthusiasm of the buyers."

The building houses some of the most dynamic names in home fashion such as Berkshire Blanket, Bellino Fine Linens, Peking Handicraft and Abhiasmi Inc. – Jovi Home, just to name a few. With an increase in associate buyers accompanying main buyers and the finest and most exclusive merchandise, it is no wonder 7 W reported a 20% uptick in attendance over last year- a clear sign 7 W is an invaluable resource.

Betsy Blancett, a buyer from Soft Surroundings in St. Louis, commented, “This market has been extremely productive. We’ve seen a lot of fashion-forward products and are very excited to be here.

Patricia Feiwell, a New York- based designer, “I love this building’s bright and open layout because you can see everything. In addition, 7 W is a fantastic source for textiles. I’ve visited every floor!”

The week’s new suites, including Kaleen Rugs, Berkshire Blanket, Nishat Chunian Ltd. and Texstyle Bolan USA experienced a positive reception, while Sam Salem and Son and aaa Bath Fashions, in newly expanded suites, were able to wow show-goers with more fresh and appealing merchandise than ever before.

Temporary suites Charisma, Inovatex, NuSteel by Tatara and CMN International enjoyed recognition; and the second annual Home Textiles Today’s Global Interiors Home Collection Show was met with considerable enthusiasm and interest.

Kirk Shipley, VP, Sales and Marketing, Texstyle Bolan USA, remarked, “It’s only the first day and already there are many people coming through. The building is fresh, we like our new space and customers are positive about it. We have some very unusual new merchandise…so far, so good!”

Joe Barkely, Executive VP, Kaleen Rugs, stated, "The national account is here so we need to be here. We see a lot of promise with this showroom and, although we've only been here a short time, we've already seen a lot of success."

Richard Eidler, VP, Sales and Product Development, Sam Salem and Son, commented, “We are thrilled to be at 7 W. it’s a great location and we love our new space.”

For complete and continually updated information about 7 W New York, keep visiting www.7wnewyork.com. You can also find 7 W on Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

7 W NEW YORK® is a wholesale mart building, catering to the buyers of Home Décor, Table Top, Giftware, Textiles, Decorative Accessories, Fine Arts and related industries. Located at 7 W 34th Street, its daily hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm with extended hours during special market weeks. 7 W New York is a trademark of Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. (MMPI).

MMPI is the world’s leading owner and operator of showroom buildings and trade show facilities, bringing buyers and sellers together in more than 300 market events, trade and consumer shows and conferences each year. MMPI manages The Merchandise Mart and 350 West Mart Center in Chicago; Market Square, the Suites at Market Square, Hamilton Market, Plaza Suites, Furniture Plaza and the National Furniture Mart in High Point, N.C.; the Architects & Designers Building and 7 W New York in New York; the Boston Design Center in Boston; the L.A. Mart in Los Angeles; and the Washington Design Center and Federal Center Southwest in Washington D.C.

VORNADO REALTY TRUST, owners of MMPI, based in New York City, is a fully integrated equity real estate investment trust. Vornado’s common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and are traded under the symbol VNO.

High Point Market to Showcase Six Causes That Matter

2011-10-02T09:06:00.001-05:00

By The High Point Market

The home furnishings industry is known for its generosity and support of those in need. To reflect that giving spirit, the High Point Market is sponsoring Six Causes That Matter, a complement to the Market’s tagline, The Next Six Days That Matter.

Each day of Market, which runs Oct. 22-27, a charity will be spotlighted at the home furnishings trade show, offering an opportunity for exhibitors and attendees to make a donation to that day’s charity. Promotion of the charities will include signage, lapel pins, social media, press alerts, and more. Exhibitors who participate will receive showroom signs to highlight their participation in that day’s cause during Market.

The Six Causes That Matter this October will include:
Oct. 22 – City of Hope, in honor of Lynn Davis
Oct. 23 – Susan G. Komen
Oct. 24 – Habitat for Humanity
Oct. 25 – American Red Cross
Oct. 26 – National Furniture Bank
Oct. 27 – Open Door Ministries

Companies interested in participating can go to www.highpointmarket.org/causes to register. More information is also available there about each of the charities. These Six Causes were chosen because of their strong ties to the home furnishings industry, but the High Point Market Authority plans to continue the Six Causes campaign throughout the year and will offer other charities the opportunity to be involved.

Lightweight, 100% porcelain dinnerware

2011-09-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

Tammy Polatsek is a veteran of the event planning and catering industry. She applied her expertise in hospitality to fashion a fine line of dishware for Carmona New York. All of the dishes are made from 100% porcelain, giving them a smooth texture and clean look. They are also 65% lighter than a common ceramic dish. Carmona offers over 250 designs. Each piece is manufactured in the same shade of clean bone. Since each piece is fully customizable, the company says it can create anything to cater to one's specific needs.

Gift for Life Honors Hammons, Kacick & the Litzmans

2011-09-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

Gift for Life, the gift, stationery and home decor industries' leading charitable organization, will honor three industry leaders during Gift for Life’s 20th Annual Party for Life, on Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012 in New York City.

Jenny Hammons will receive the Bert Tonkin Gift of Giving Award, which recognizes sustained philanthropic endeavors benefitting the industry. The Award is named for industry benefactor Bert Tonkin, president of Western Exhibitors. Hammons is a gift industry veteran and owner of Jenny Hammons/Company, which consists of West Coast-based sales organizations servicing the gift and home-décor markets in Northern California and the U.S. Pacific Northwest. She is a former chair of the board of Gift for Life.

George Kacic will receive the Chuck Yancy Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to a special recipient who has had an abiding impact on the industry through leadership and generosity. Kacic’s career within the gift and home-décor industry spans thirty-five years. Currently, he serves as Vice President of GANZ USA, LLC. Over the past nineteen years, he has helped make GANZ one of the top “go-to” gift companies in the world. He is involved in every aspect of sales and marketing. Prior to GANZ, Kacic spent seven years with Russ Berrie, becoming District Sales Manager and later Regional Sales Manager. He also served five years as President of an independent rep firm. As Vice President of Takara USA, Kacic was instrumental in establishing the Japanese-based company within the United States. His industry activities are as deep-rooted as his corporate leadership. Kacic is serving as the Advisory Board Chairman for AmericasMart; he is a member of the Gift for Life Board; he served six years on the Gift & Home Trade Association’s (GHTA) Board, acting as President, Chairman Emeritus and, most recently, an ICON HONORS founding partner; and he is the current co-chair for the GHTA Annual Conference.

Brandwise and its founders Todd and Jannetta Litzman will receive the Trailblazer Award, which recognizes an industry pioneer for outstanding achievement and significant contributions, as well as creative products and ideas with lasting impact. For more than 14 years, Brandwise has been driving the innovation of technology in the gift and home industry by listening to its needs and consistently creating and providing solutions and tools to help suppliers and sales reps sell more, increase efficiencies and, in effect, enhancing the retailer’s buying experience. The company continues to provide new technology to help automate each step in the sales channel—from showroom floor to the road, from back office functions to executive business intelligence and online where the company’s revolutionary bwconnect™ service allows retailers, reps and suppliers to collaborate online to do business.

“Strong leadership, decades of hard work, and passionate support for the industry are the shared values of our honorees,” said Leslie Nathan-Street, chair of the Gift for Life board. “We recognize their tireless energy and their generosity.”

The 20th Annual Party for Life, benefiting DIFFA, will be held at The Boathouse at Central Park. Individual tickets are $125, and sponsorships ranging from $500 through $25,000 are available. For details, contact Steven Williams at swilliams@diffa.org, (212) 727-3100. Each year, Gift for Life hosts events throughout the U.S. benefitting DIFFA. The primary mission of Gift for Life and DIFFA is to eradicate the AIDS pandemic in the U.S. Working together, Gift for Life and DIFFA will continue to raise funds for HIV/AIDS service and education programs. For additional information please visit www.giftforlife.org.

Follow Gift for Life’s efforts via their free e-newsletter, available at http://www.giftforlife.org/about_gfl/press-releases-and-newsletters/.

For Target-istas: Partying with Sabrina Soto

2011-09-28T08:38:00.001-05:00

"A Bullseye View" brings retailer Target to life. (Target's logo is a bulls-eye, get it?) The online magazine, or blog, is a behind-the-scenes look at the retailer's partnerships, initiatives, events and innovations. Here's a taste of a recent article:

"Last night, in a gorgeous apartment on the Upper West Side, Target threw a housewarming party for New York-newbie Sabrina Soto, HGTV host and Target Style Expert for Home.After packing up her bags in Bethesda, MD, Sabrina headed to the big city for a new place… and a new excuse for a flawless home makeover. Sabrina is usually busy making design miracles come true for homeowners on her hit HGTV show “The High/Low Project,” but this project was all about her.At the intimate rendezvous, we ignored the scrumptious-looking hors d’oeuvres and crisp cocktails to feast on décor instead. As expected, Sabrina’s apartment was pristine, stylish and completely covetable. "

High-tech garden gives everyone a green thumb

2011-09-17T20:25:00.000-05:00

A Tech Rescue for the Gardening Impaired

Click and Grow automated flowerbeds announce full-scale production.

By Click and Grow
(MMD Newswire) - - Click and Grow brings casual gardeners a touch of tech, allowing plants to grow on their own without outside help. The gardener adds only batteries and a two months' supply of water - the planter's sensors, processor and software do the rest. Click and Grow literally empowers gardening in absentia.

In August 2011, Click and Grow appealed to consumers to test our product, and the response was literally overwhelming. More than 20,000 consumers from around the globe signed up, but we were only able to accommodate several thousand. Now, with large-scale production underway, Click and Grow is available to consumers everywhere.

Our technology uses no soil, and plants are grown from cartridges which retail from two to eight euros. Six cartridges are currently available with another 50 soon to follow. Click and Grow's software measures all parameters affecting plant growth and knows exactly what each plant needs, enabling even the most inept gardener to grow plants with more complex needs--roses, basil, tomato, orchids.

Click and Grow's automated planter pot requires no soil and water is placed into the pot's reservoir every other month. The automated pot retails for €59 in Europe (£49 in the UK, and $79 in the US).

All Click and Grow plant cartridges fit this planter pot, though each pot may grow only one plant at a time, as plants cannot be replanted outside the Click and Grow system.

"Every year, more than 30 billion euros in houseplants are thrown away," says Click and Grow CEO Mattias Lepp. "No one can single-handedly save all those plants, but wouldn't it be nice if the average houseplant could be around longer than its current two-month average?"

Click and Grow is for sale via the web at www.clickandgrow.com and high-end gardening and design shops the world over.

Vendor offers a round-the-world trip for retailers, reps

2011-09-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

GuildMaster, a wholesale of furniture and decorative accessories, www.guildmaster.comannounced a new "Amazing Race" promotion for retailers and sales reps. The trip includes stops in nine of the topglobal fashion capitals or $10,000 in cash.

For each $1,000 in product purchased by a retailer or sold by a sales representative, one entry is earned so that the chance to win increaseswith the value of the orders.

The contest ends on Friday, Nov. 19 when fivefinalists in each group will be pulled from the entries. The following week onBlack Friday, Nov. 25, one winner in each group will be drawn from the fivefinalists and GuildMaster CEO Steve Crowder will personally deliver the news tothe winning retailer and sales representative.

Each of the winners will receiveeither two tickets for a dream trip around the world or $10,000.The Top 25Global Fashion Capitals according to the Global Language Monitor are in thisorder:
London, New York,Paris, Milano, Los Angeles,Hong Kong, Barcelona, Singapore,Tokyo, Berlin, Sydney, Madrid, Rome, Shanghai, Monaco, Las Vegas,Melbourne, Moscow,Amsterdam, Buenos Aires,Bali, MexicoCity, Rio de Janeiro, Mumbai and Sao Paulo.

To identify the favorite cities, GuildMaster’s Facebook fans (www.facebook.com/guildmasterfurniture)are asked to Tell Us Your Dream City bytelling why and by posting photos of the cities on the company’s Facebookpage.

During the course of the contest, GuildMaster will highlight the topglobal fashion capitals, along with ongoing posts revealing the top dealers andreps. The winning destinations willbe based on the response from GuildMaster’s Facebook fans.

Honors for eco-friendly housewares, gifts

2011-09-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

Three companies received Eco Choice Awards at the summer 2011 New York International Gift Fair.

Most Innovative: One World Projects, Recycled Plastic Laundry Hamper from India. This multipurpose basket was handmade in India from recycled plastic. The salvaged plastic strands are created by melting recycled plastic bottles and other bits of plastic waste gathered in the slums of Chennai, India.
This company is an original member of the Fair Trade Federation, and supports socially and economically deprived women from urban slum areas by offering vocational training and micro-credit loan opportunities, as well as programs that focus on education and building self-responsibility and confidence. www.oneworldprojects.com

Most Sensitive Use of Materials: ES, Chilote House Shoe, Chilote House Shoe. Local wool from free range Patagonian sheep and tanned natural salmon skin are the only materials used to manufacture this product. It is made of 100% natural, biodegradable materials, and is hand-assembled by self organized groups of artisan women in the south of Chile.
Strict fair trade and ethical production principles are followed, and a highly inclusive production process provides a fair and noble way for low-income families to earn a living and raise their quality of life. The process addresses the synergy of three aspects of sustainability: ecologically benign, socially beneficial, and financially viable. www.es-salmonleather.com

Most Sellable: I Design Distribution, KISM.This product is made from ecological materials obtained from production waste, reusing trash as a means to safeguard the environment. It’s a patented material made of natural and recycled paper fibers.
Yael Rosen started Kisim in 1999 inspired by the simple solutions of Japanese fabric design and the traditional leather craftsmanship of the Middle East. KISIM collection is characterized by connection evolving across time and changes, color and shape, texture and dimension. www.idesigndistribution.com

The 4th semi-annual Eco Choice Awards were co-sponsored by NYIGF and GREENRetailer magazine.The fifth semi-annual Eco Choice Awards will take place at the winter 2012 NYIGF, Saturday, January 28, through Thursday, February 2, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94.

Facebook and web special, only for retailers

2011-09-14T10:30:00.000-05:00

Coyuchi is hosting a Facebook/Twitter giveaway for a chance to win a Striped Wool Blanket that was recently featured in Country living. From now until Sunday, Sept. 17, say why you love Coyuchi products on the Coyuchi wall - www.facebook.com/CoyuchiHome or Twitter page, http://twitter.com/coyuchi to be entered to win the blanket, valued at $180.

Keep current with the world of interior design, by joining TLS with Newest Creations Seen First on Twitter (http://twitter.com/#%21/TLSbyDesign) and FaceBook. (https://www.facebook.com/tlsbydesign)

"Like" Diane James Home on Facebook and all fans will be entered to win a $500 shopping spree (with free shipping!) on www.DianeJamesHome.com.

An end of summer promotion from Calypso Studios Inc. offers a $45 (retail value) necklace for any customer who writes a $250 order or more. Select one color from the company's new 24-inch-long chain Feather necklaces. Choose tin (2511), copper (2510) or gold (2509). Ends Sept. 30, new orders only. Must write in notes which necklace you are selecting as giveaway. www.calypsostudiosinc.com

Las Vegas Market event raised $12 for DIFFA

2011-09-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

The Sky Was the Limit at Gift for Life Benefit

Guests gather “Up on the Roof” to help benefit DIFFA at Las Vegas Market

By Las Vegas Market
LAS VEGAS — (Aug. 23, 2011) – The breathtaking Las Vegas skyline was the perfect backdrop for attendees of the inaugural Gift for Life “Up on the Roof” charity cocktail reception on opening night of Summer 2011 Las Vegas Market, Aug. 1. The SkyView Terrace rooftop event resulted in more than 500 tickets sold, raising more than $12,000 in proceeds benefiting the Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids.

Buyers, designers, manufacturers, journalists and VIPs gathered on the roof of World Market Center Las Vegas’ Building B for an evening of fun and fundraising, soaking up the sun and Las Vegas party atmosphere.

“I have been the emcee of this event since the late '90s and the vibe here in Las Vegas is fun and positive,” said Tom Sullivan, host of the Gift for Life event. “People are buying, shopping and partying, just as you would expect. Here at Gift for Life, the mood is also upbeat because it's all for a good cause.”

The supportive turnout of industry leaders and gift attendees enjoyed cocktails, appetizers, live music and prizes. Among the VIP guests were design stars Roger Thomas and HGTV’s Monica Pedersen. Prizes were also star-worthy, including raffle items such as a Peter Lik photo, autographed Bill Clinton books, and show tickets. An impressive $2,350 was raised selling raffle tickets.Steven Williams, Director of Community Relations for DIFFA, was pleased with the success of the event.

“DIFFA is thrilled that the Las Vegas Market’s first event on behalf of Gift for Life raised more than $12,000 for persons living with HIV/AIDS and we look forward to our next endeavor together. Now more than ever such support is critical to the future of the organizations DIFFA helps to fund.”

About Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids
Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) is one of the largest funders of HIV/AIDS service and education programs in the U.S. Since its founding in 1984, DIFFA has mobilized the immense resources of the design communities to provide more than $38 million to hundreds of AIDS organizations nationwide. The DIFFA: Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS Web site is available at www.diffa.org

About World Market Center Las Vegas
World Market Center Las Vegas is an integrated home and hospitality contract furnishings showroom and trade complex. The campus showcases furniture, decorative accessories, gift, lighting, area rugs, home textiles and related segments, as well as the Las Vegas Design Center open daily to consumers and designers. For more information on World Market Center Las Vegas and its trade shows including the bi-annual Las Vegas Market and Gift+Home, visit www.wmclv.com. Find us on Facebook and Twitter.

World Market Center Las Vegas is a property of International Market Centers, L.P. (IMC), the world’s largest operator of premier showroom space for the furnishings, home décor and gift industries. International Market Centers owns and operates 11.5 million square feet of world-class exhibition space in High Point, N.C. and Las Vegas. IMC’s mission is to build and operate an innovative, sustainable, profitable and scalable platform for the furnishings, home décor and gift industries.

For more information on IMC, visit imcenters.com.

Glossy white canister with monkey finial

2011-09-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

Vellum showed this item at the 2011 New York International Gift Fair in August. Draped in a high-wattage glossy white lacquer and wrapped in scenes detailing intricate landscapes and whimsical animals and birds, this canister with a monkey finial is from Vellum's best-selling Astor collection.

Made in Italy, the 20-inch-tall decorative accessories is food-safe, according to the company.

2 closet storage options

2011-09-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

Inspired by rain chains, Jokari's new Purse Chain is a nickel-plated fashion chain packed full of storage space. The re-positionable hooks hold purses, belts, scarves and more. Users can easily thread pashminas, necklaces or other accessories in the fixed position links.

The Sock Keeper hangs on any closet rod and contains three openings for easy access to socks. Each Keeper holds 20 or more pair of socks.

Jokari's Sock Keeper

The company's other storage solutions include those for carbonated beverages, wine and kitchen tools.

New and vintage vases

2011-09-01T21:16:00.000-05:00

Decorative ceramic tiles with art reproductions

2011-09-01T04:00:00.000-05:00

The online art gallery, overstockArt.com, launched a line of decorative inlay tiles. The inlay tiles create a mural image in a set of 12 tiles. They can be used in a variety of places including, baths, backsplashes, fireplaces and walls. The company also offers trivet tiles.

Artwork on the tiles are reproductions of great masters such as Gustav Klimt, Claude Monet, Georgia O’Keeffe, Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh.The decorative ceramic tile inlays just introduced on the site include:

“Branches of an Almond Tree in Blossom,” Vincent van Gogh – 18” x 24” mural image comprised of 12 6” x 6” tiles
Café Terrace at Night,” Vincent van Gogh – 18” x 24” mural image comprised of 12 6” x 6” tiles
"Irises,” Vincent van Gogh – 18” x 24” mural image comprised of 12 6” x 6” tiles
“Starry Night,” Vincent van Gogh – 18” x 24” mural image comprised of 12 6” x 6” tiles
“Sunflowers (Detail),” Vincent van Gogh –18” x 24” mural image comprised of 12 6” x 6” tiles

The art trivet tiles currently available for purchase on the site include:

“The Dream,” Pablo Picasso – 11” x 14” art trivet tile
“Irises,” Vincent van Gogh – 11” x 14” art trivet tile
“Red Poppies,” Vincent van Gogh – 11” x 14” art trivet tile
“Starry Night,” Vincent van Gogh – 11” x 14” art trivet tile

Additional art trivet tiles and inlay tiles will become available in the weeks and months ahead.

Stylish recipe organizer adds flair to a kitchen

2011-08-31T04:00:00.000-05:00

The Recipe Nest is an organizer of recipes clipped from magazines or newspapers, or hand-written recipes. There are two versions of the cover: colored vinyl (available in many options) and printed, glossy laminated board. Each holds about 200 recipes. The built-in easel folds out to hold the recipe at a convenient angle so a cook can consult it while cooking. Recipe Relish exhibited the product at the Gourmet Housewares Show held during the New York International Gift Fair this month.

New furniture is designed for and by young adults

2011-08-30T04:00:00.000-05:00

At the Las Vegas Market in August, Groovystuff announced a new product collection from Appalachian State University student Alex Parker. His Echo collection is one of the many new Groovystuff products that are said to provide retailers with designs to fill the trend gap between emerging young adults and established consumers.

These new products meet a price point that is attractive to this emerging demographic and the style points that more established consumers look for when furnishing their homes, according to Groovstuff.

According to a press release: "The Echo Captain’s and Side Chair were designed specifically to take the grittiness of the old organic movement and soften that earth-crunchy look into a more elegant and sophisticated product. Sustainably harvested teak flooring provides the framework for the Echo Collection. The chair is then adorned with reclaimed teak branches. The flat, lacquer finish softens the contrast between these two types of teak and gives the chairs a modern, elegant look. "

Throw rugs and matching pillows by Valori Wells

2011-08-29T04:00:00.000-05:00

Peking Handicraft Inc. (PKI), added to its rug and pillow collection with the Bloom series by Valori Wells. Comprised of two rug and pillow designs, the series showcases an oversized flower pattern, like that of a magnified carnation, with a multi-dimensional appearance.

The series is offered in two rich colorways, cobalt and cocoa. The cobalt pieces boast four eye-catching shades of blue and tan on a pale blue background, while the cocoa set presents charming shades of brown, tan and orange on a beige background.

The wool and cotton blend rugs feature three different sized, seamlessly overlapping blooms and are available in two sizes, 4 feet x 6 feet and 3 feet x 5 feet. The complementary wool-and-cotton blend pillows (18 inches by 18 inches) feature a single, large bloom design.

The Bloom series, and other new products, can be seen during the New York Home Fashions Market, Sept. 19 to 23 in the Peking Handicraft showroom (suite 912) at 7 W 34th Street.

Dallas Market Center reaches Facebook milestone

2011-08-27T09:36:00.000-05:00

Dallas Market Center Reaches Social Media Milestone

More than 5,000 people “like” company’s Facebook page

By Dallas Market Center

DALLAS – August 22, 2011 – Dallas Market Center, the world’s most complete wholesale resource, today announced that its Facebook page has reached more than 5,000 “likes.” This important milestone comes just over 18 months after the company launched its Facebook in January 2010. The Dallas Market Center Facebook page has become a community for ongoing conversations with customers and those interested in the industries the company serves. Participants engage with the brand every day and receive useful information on their own schedule.

“We are thrilled that so many of our customers are engaged in our social media platforms,” said Cindy Morris, COO, Dallas Market Center. “Through Facebook and Twitter our buyers and exhibitors have a more personal way to interact with our brand, while in turn we are able to share important information about our business and the entire industry.”

Facebook is just one part of the social media strategy of Dallas Market Center, which also includes more than 2,700 followers on Twitter and the Dallas Market Center YouTube channel. Information is shared daily through social media sites including industry news, market announcements and much more. During Markets, dozens of updates are issued regarding special events, educational opportunities, trend information, hospitalities and buyer giveaways.

“Social media is an excellent tool for us to reach our customers and talk with them, not just at them,” said Jane R. Robertson, EVP of marketing, Dallas Market Center. “Our social media team continues to seek new ways to connect with retailers, manufacturers and sales reps – more exciting things are to come.”

About Dallas Market Center

Founded in 1957, Dallas Market Center is the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace. Within its marketplace of more than five million square feet, retailers from around the globe source products ranging from home furnishings, gifts, decorative accessories and lighting to textiles, fashion accessories and men's, western, women's and children's apparel. With more than 50 markets each year attended by more than 200,000 retail buyers from all 50 states and 78 countries, Dallas Market Center offers hundreds of events and seminars geared toward helping retailers expand business and increase profits. As a result, more than $8 billion in estimated wholesale transactions are conducted annually within the Dallas Market Center complex. The Dallas Market Center website is available at www.dallasmarketcenter.com.

Self-watering ceramic planters

2011-08-22T13:08:00.000-05:00

Marduk Productions LLC has a new brand of unique self-watering ceramic planters, the vision of Kourosh Hessam, a graduate from San Francisco State University with a degree in Industrial Design. He decided to pursue his love of ceramics, but also recognized the need for an innovative product design that was attractive, useful, and provided a real benefit to consumers who love plants,but don’t necessarily have a “green thumb.”
In November of 2009, Hessam partnered with longtime friend David Sharma to continue in their extensive research and development. They self-funded the project, one step at a time, buying materials, tools and equipment, building molds and creating new designs. After successfully building the working prototypes, they filed for a patent and in November of 2010, founded Marduk Productions, LLC. The company is now receiving substantial funding interest from investors that will allow the full launch of its initial two product lines this Fall.
Clay’s natural porosity combined with a unique, double-walled design allows water to pass through the planter at a perfectly regulated level, hydrating the plant for up to 30 days. These hand-made molds are completely biodegradable, use only natural materials so they are 100% “Green” and allow plants to automatically absorb the right amount of water through the lining of the interior wall of the planter. This enables people who are plant lovers, but don’t necessarily have the time or knowledge to care for a plant’s daily needs, as well as the elderly and even children to experience the delight of growing even the most sensitive plants in a flourishing, nurturing environment.

California gift show wrap-up

2011-08-20T06:00:00.002-05:00

JULY 2011 CALIFORNIA GIFT SHOW® CULMINATES IN A STRONG MARKET PERFORMANCE

Refreshed, California-centric positioning along with increased traffic, healthy order-writing, innovative product concepts and authoritative presentations set stage for 2012 expectations.

By the California Gift Show

LOS ANGELES, CA (August 15, 2011) - MMPI and California Gift Show® (CGS) report a robust Market experience with positive indicators on multiple fronts defining an encouraging CGS trajectory. The show's California-centric focus delivered, in a uniquely L.A experiential manner, a broad array of new and on-trend merchandise across all of the most popular, volume generating categories. More than 10,000 lines from over 1,200 temporary exhibitors and permanent showrooms, at two dynamic venues, provided buyers a myriad of product offerings, with emphasis on the region's emerging product designers, artists and craftsmen.

"We are extremely pleased with the performance of this July Market," said Jeff Sampson, vice president marketing L.A. Mart/CGS/L.A. Mart Design Center. "Placing greater import on California as our brand position differentiated the overall show experience, emphasizing the significance of this region to the gift industry and beyond. Redefining CGS as a celebration of California style and innovation supports our permanent showrooms and temporary exhibitors as they continue to present innovative concepts in the most sought-after categories with the modern retailer in-mind."

A 24% increase in traffic over July 2010 reinforced the strength of CGS and the California marketplace as a unique and highly desirous resource destination among buyers from across the country and around the globe. Attendees from as far east as New York and Boston in the Northeast, to Atlanta and Miami in the South, joined buyers from New Orleans, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Phoenix, Las Vegas and more, representing 42 U.S. states seeking what only CGS can offer.International attendees in search of California's mystique were also present in force. North American neighbors in Canada and Mexico shopped side-by-side Pacific Rim buyers from Hawaii, Auckland, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Seoul, as well as Middle East retailers from Dubai and Kuwait.

From high-end corporate brands to boutique independent retail shops, CGS served as a must-stop Market for such best-in-class retailers as Forever 21, Fred Segal, Hallmark Corp., Knott's Berry Farm, Vons, Whole Foods Market, Williams Sonoma Home, Beverly Wilshire Hotel, Bloomingdale's, Firefly, Harvard Museum Of Natural History, Kaiser Permanente, Kitson, Ritz Carlton Hotel, University Of Southern California, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Universal Studios, Warner Bros Studios, Bel Air Country Club, Disney Consumer Products, Elton John AIDS Foundation, Four Seasons Hotel, H&M Enterprises, Paramount Pictures, Ross Stores, San Diego Zoo, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Target.Com, TJ Max Companies, Vroman's/Book Soup and Wynn Resorts among others.

"This vigorous uptick in traffic and vitality of buyer, in light of continued economic challenges, further demonstrate the value of California Gift Show as a Market of strategic importance to the buying trade," said Mark Furlet, vice president of Gift & Home, MMPI. "As consumers become ever-more informed and discriminating in their purchasing habits, retailers are sourcing unique products with greater intelligence. CGS is their entrée to manufacturers known worldwide and to the innovations for which California is renowned."

FOCUS ON CALIFORNIA + PRODUCTS + EDUCATION + EVENTS
California Bespoke - a gallery-inspired design showcase debuted one-of-a-kind, limited edition and new-to-market furnishings, home accessories, hand-crafted objects and original works of art from the region's next generation of design tastemakers. Curated by contributors from The Editor At Large ... Vanessa Kogevinas, Marisa Marcantonio, Jason Oliver Nixon and Jennie Nunn ... California Bespoke was brought to life against a sophisticated, three-dimensional backdrop inspired by the diverse natural terrain of the region as conceived by interior designer Christopher Gaona.

Destination L.A.: Pop-Up Case Studies - four conceptual exhibitions located in the main entry aisle of LACC's South Hall featured Los Angeles-based product artisans demonstrating how their innovative products are made and used. Hysteric Haus, SKULLASTIC, Dollhouse Republic/Better Than Naked, and Velvet Rope Bake Shop represented show categories (home décor, stationery, fashion accessories and gourmet), offering buyers the opportunity to experience and source their offerings in a fresh, compelling format.

Extreme Art Challenge, presented by L.A. Art Machine - Located in LACC's atrium, Los Angeles' urban artists Hans Haveron, John Park, Mear One and Abcnt competed in a dynamic performance-art challenge where large scale art installations were painted to reflect California culture as attendees made their arrival to South Hall Gift and Kentia Global Marketplace.

Fred Segal: A California Success Story - Owner/designer of Fred Segal Originals, Annie Segal presented to a captivated audience how the family-owned, multi-generational business grew from a Los Angeles concept emporium to international retail icon. According to Segal, "having great product" is key to success. Segal followed-up " ... that when times are bad, it's the perfect opportunity to create something new."

Editors' Panel: Retailer Business Review - Editors-in-Chiefs Caroline Kennedy of Gifts & Decorative Accessories, Jenny-Heinzen York of Home Accents Today and Design & Style Editor Krissa Rossbund of Traditional Home engaged in a dynamic dialogue moderated by Marisa Marcantonio of Editor-at-Large and Stylebeat.com. The powerhouse panel addressed the new generation of empowered consumers, offering insights on fresh, relevant products, marketing, and merchandising, helping the modern retailer stay ahead of the curve.

Styled for Success: Perfecting the Accessorized Space - Traditional Home's Krissa Rossbund shared fresh merchandising and accessorizing tips that captivate and sell, including space planning and vignetting that integrate accessories, table-top, wall art, florals, textiles, and more. A reception with Ms. Rossbund celebrating the debut of L.A. Mart Design Center's new Designer Lounge followed.

World Style Stories - A special presentation recognizing five inspirational exhibitor essays recalling the journey each Kentia Global Marketplace exhibitor traveled in creating the products they've made, as well as the positive impact on the people and communities served by these international craftsmen. The honored list included SPIRAL Foundation | Healing the Wounded Heart Project, Project Have Hope, Good Paper, Heavenly Treasures and Dunitz & Company, Inc.

Two's Company Celebration - A ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception for the industry titan celebrating their long-term lease renewal and showroom redesign. Tom Zimmerman, vice president marketing and sales, welcomed buyers for a champagne reception. For nearly 30 years, Two's Company has served the West Coast gift and design communities from its L.A. Mart address.

HEARD AT MARKET

Tom Zimmerman, vice president sales & marketing for Two's Company made the L.A./California connection clear. "Our day-to-day business is stronger in Los Angeles than anywhere else in the country," said Zimmerman, on the heels of the brand's recent multi-year re-commitment to L.A. Mart.

"The success we have experienced thanks to L.A. Mart's ability to drive trade traffic substantiates our recommitment to MMPI and the marketplace."Stephen Young, principal of his eponymously named showroom, shared, "I've seen a nice, healthy jump in traffic. Every day has been busy. We had a lot to talk to buyers about, keeping them in the showroom longer."

Daniele Semeraro of Sempli enthusiastically expressed, "This show is our worldwide debut! We just started the business in January and decided to launch at L.A. Mart's Beckman's Handcrafted Show. The traffic has been steady and we are getting a great response from the buyers, designers and media who have stopped by."

Kevin Ebert, assistant director of operations for Harvard Museum of National History furthered the California advantage. "This is our fifth year coming to L.A. Five years ago we found our best-selling product ever at the L.A. Mart. We continue to buy it and it continues to sell very well. We don't even bother with the shows on the East Coast anymore, everything is the same. We see different, fresh and unique merchandise here at the California Gift Show."

For a complete listing of CGS show information, please visit: www.californiagiftshow.com.

ABOUT L.A. MART and CALIFORNIA GIFT SHOW
L.A. Mart® is a registered trademark of MMPI. The California Gift Show® is a registered trademark of MMPI. Beckman's Handcrafted Show(TM) L.A. is a registered trademark of MMPI. L.A. Mart is home to nearly 200 permanent year-round, residential, decorative accessory and gift showrooms serving the retail and interior design industries.

The California Gift Show Temporaries feature over 800 temporary exhibitors of lifestyle merchandise, home décor and furnishings, in the newly enhanced and expanded Temporaries at L.A. Mart and Los Angeles Convention Center, making the California Gift Show the preeminent market for gift and home furnishings products on the West Coast. L.A. Mart is located at 1933 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90007.

For more information call 213-763-5800 or visit www.californiagiftshow.com or www.lamart.com.MMPI is a trade show and property management firm, specializing in managing buildings devoted to wholesale showrooms and commercial office space.

MMPI produces more than 300 trade shows, market events and conferences each year.

MMPI manages The Merchandise Mart and 350 W. Mart Center in Chicago; Architects & Designers Building and 7 W New York in New York; Boston Design Center in Boston; L.A. Mart in Los Angeles; and Washington Design Center and Federal Center Southwest in Washington D.C.

Vornado Realty Trust, owner of MMPI, based in New York City, is a fully integrated real estate investment trust. Vornado's common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and are traded under the symbol VNO.

2012 preview of outdoor furniture

2011-08-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

Outdoor furniture manufacturer Oxford Garden showed its new products for 2012 at the Casual Market in Chicago earlier this month. President Randy Meek said, “Using new materials while adding to well-loved collections, we have worked hard to create an outdoor experience our customers will enjoy.”Based in Louisville, KY, family operated Oxford Garden seeks to provide furniture for the outdoors while remaining reasonably priced. Known for its affordable luxury, Oxford Garden creates a classic timeless style of outdoor furniture unrivaled in craftsmanship and unique in design.

NY gift show honors four exhibitors

2011-08-17T22:38:00.000-05:00

Four companies exhibiting in Accent on Design at the New York International Gift Fair were recognized for excellence, innovation and creativity in product design. Accent on Design runs through Thursday, Aug. 18, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

“Across product categories, these Accent on Design participants have incorporated superlative design qualities which stand above an already impressive collection,” said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. “These products combine form and function with exemplary design.”

The following Accent on Design Awards were presented for Excellence in Product Design, Best Booth Presentation and Best Collection.

Excellence in Product Design:Flux (Amsterdam, Netherlands) for Flux Chair, weighing less than 10 pounds and available in eight colors, the Flux Chair supports 300 pounds and takes furniture to the 21st century with a clever combination of the practical advantages of foldable furniture and the looks of a classic design chair.

Excellence in Product Design:Alessi (New York, NY) for Tèo, an innovation on the typology of the tea spoon, in addition to its normal function, the 18/10 stainless steel Tèo makes it possible, after tea is ready, to remove the bag from the cup and gently squeeze it, pulling it up through the hollow handle.

Best Booth Presentation:Mio (Philadelphia, PA) for its wall to ceiling booth presentation made of its own environmentally and socially sustainable products including Paperforms, modular 3D wallpaper tiles made from recycled paper; Crystal Drop Ceiling modules made from recycled cardboard that provide a cost effective and dramatic solution for spaces that require suspended ceilings; and Nomad System, a modular architectural system made from recycled, double-wall cardboard that can be assembled into freestanding, temporary partitions without hardware, tools or damage to existing structures.

Best Collection:Urban Butik (Montreal, Quebec) for the Born in Sweden collection which combines highly innovative design with simple product solutions. The collection includes a minimalist coat rack crafted from a single piece of rigid, powder coated steel; a streamlined, lockable mailbox in molded fiberglass features a separation lid inside that can be removed to increase storage capacity; and functional, practical and aesthetically pleasing watering cans made of 18-0 stainless steel.

The Accent on Design Summer 2011 Selection Committee members are: Miguel Calvo of Calvo.co; Ilene Shaw of Shaw + Co! Productions; Kathy Thornton-Bias of MoMA; Wilma Wabnitz of Wabnitz Editions; and Laura Young of Areaware.

Meanwhile, back at the NY gift show

2011-08-15T20:47:00.001-05:00

Colorful dinnerware collections from Rosanna

2011-08-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

Les Fleurs En Rouge

Les Fleurs En Rouge is a new collection from Rosanna Inc. It features refined botanical prints in a vibrant combination of red and green, making it a fresh approach toholiday entertaining. The company states the "botanicals’ contemporary look makes it easy to grace spring and summer tablescapes as well." The collection is comprised of baroque mugs, dipping dishes, appetizer plates, a rectangular tray, a French pitcher, and a teapot. Each item is made of porcelain and comes in Rosanna’s signature decorated gift box.

A new decoupage collections of moderately priced gifts includes round, square and rectangular trays made of pressed glass. The felt back makes them suitable for jewelry, makeup or soaps.

The Chocolaterie collection

The Chocolaterie collection is comprised of porcelain mugs, dessert plates, a pitcher, and a two-tiered tray with antique label prints of famous European chocolate makers.

Search "Rosanna" in this blog to see the company's winter 2011 collection.

NY's night of celebration

2011-08-14T21:27:00.001-05:00

Day One highlights from NY gift show

2011-08-13T17:07:00.002-05:00

NY gift show is up and running

2011-08-13T10:49:00.000-05:00

Stacking wood votive set for holiday gift giving

2011-08-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

Teroforma has partnered with Rhode Island independent designer Ayako Takase to offer a whimsical way to sleekly store numerous small votive holders. Inspired by the traditional Japanese children’s game daruma otoshi (whose rounded pieces stack on an accompanying mallet), they conceived a system of pierced votives to store totemlike on the internally embedded handle of a complementary snuffer.

The Avva style (top photo) consists of 3 flare-in votives and 2 flare-out. It is 9 3/4” tall stacked. The Ekke style (above) is cylindrical in shape and also measures 9 3/4” tall when stacked. The company is exhibiting at the New York International Gift Fair this month.

Dishes and serveware for the winter holidays

2011-08-11T07:30:00.000-05:00

Rosanna Bowles, the so-called Diva of Dishes, is showing her fall/winter collection from Rosanna Inc. at the New York gift show this month. Also, her lifestyle book, "Coming Home: A Seasonal Guide to Creating Family Traditions" following a successful printing, is available for download as an e-book.

The Happy Christmas Collection (above) features prints inspired by vintage wrappings from Rosanna’s grandmother. The collection is comprised of mugs, large and small trays, dessert plates, a two-tiered tray, and a canvas tote.

The 12 Days of Christmas returns to the collection. The set of 12 square scalloped plates are made of refined porcelain and come in a decorated gift box.

Cute gifts and apparel for babies, tots

2011-08-10T12:16:00.004-05:00

New York gift show begins Aug. 13

2011-08-09T19:08:00.001-05:00

New contemporary wall designs are moderately priced

2011-08-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Nova introduced 19 competitively priced additions to its Art Studio collection of gallery-quality, three-dimensional wall sculpture during the Las Vegas Market this month. Starting as low as $99, the newest handcrafted additions – each signed and dated by the original artist – balance bold, colorful, retro and modern styles with more tonal, natural, metallic, contemporary/transitional designs.

These pieces, as well as many other lighting, home accent and wall décor designs, were seen in Nova's relocated and expanded space at the World Market Center, A-355. Some of the pieces in the new collection incorporate materials like glass and wood. In addition, a number of the new designs come in a set of three or four and have a variety of layout options. All of the new designs, including sets and individual pieces, can be hung vertically or horizontally.

Through recent acquisitions and ongoing product development, the company continues to expand its product line to include a complete lifestyle assortment of home accents and furnishings.

New licensed textiles from Winterthur collection

2011-08-08T21:39:00.001-05:00

Andover Fabrics has been a licensee of Winterthur since 2008. Andover Fabrics began in 1920 as a small office in downtown Manhattan that sold velvet cloth to the women’s hat trade. Today, the company is run by the grandson of the founder and continues to sell fabric but as an independent company devoted to the quilt trade.

Inspired by designs found in the vast textile collection at Winterthur, Andover’s Winterthur Collection offers quilters the opportunity to work creatively with beautiful patterns that reflect the quality and authenticity of the museum’s collection. The new collection of quilting fabrics is based on the late 18th-century John Hewson coverlet in Winterthur's textile collection. It consists of nine patterns in multiple colorways.

See more John Hewson patterns here.

Tastemakers shop the Las Vegas Summer Market

2011-08-06T06:00:00.005-05:00

Tastemakers Get Ahead of the Curve of Interior Design Trends

Anthony Baratta, Jeffrey Alan Marks and Nathan Turner Scour Las Vegas Summer Market for Next Season’s New Looks and Coveted Pieces

By Las Vegas Market

LAS VEGAS – Aug. 3, 2011 –Three of the nation’s most celebrated interior designers, Anthony Baratta, Jeffrey Alan Marks and Nathan Turner shopped five-million-square-feet of showrooms during this week’s Summer Las Vegas Market. Today they uncoveredwhat will become next season’s most popular trends during their presentation, Ahead of the Curve, moderated by style guru and “Today” show contributor Susanna Salk. The program, which featured a live in-studio audience and webcast viewers from around the globe, gave the world a chance to watch top design stars reveal their favorite discoveries.

“We are very proud of the reputation Ahead of the Curve has gotten over the last few years,” said Robert Maricich, chief executive officer of International Market Centers, World Market Center Las Vegas’ parent company. “We know that media, designers, buyers and mainstream consumers all anticipate what our trend forecasters will divulge. Fall is such a busy season for decorating so this is the perfect time to get ahead of next season’s trends.”

Throughout their tour of the three inter-connected buildings of World Market Center Las Vegas, the design experts uncovered some new additions to the exhibitor scene as well as interesting innovations, products, and trends.

“I never tire of identifying the stand-out pieces and trends year-after-year,” said Susanna Salk, design expert and author. “Las Vegas Market has an amazing variety of products, from very luxurious high-end manufacturers, to very affordable well-built pieces and even the more obscure, whimsical pieces.”

“I’ve found the experience at Las Vegas Market to be incredibly inspiring,” said Baratta. I have found some great new pieces to incorporate into current projects and have so many new ideas to take home to New York with me. I was non-stop shopping.”

We had an amazing time going through each showroom and picking our favorites,” said Marks. “From comfort, to fun design elements, and great colors, this season’s Las Vegas Market really had it all. It was extremely difficult for me to narrow down my choices for the Ahead of the Curve presentation. There just wasn’t enough time to highlight all of my favorites.”

“Because I have a retail store I am always on the hunt to look for new and exciting things, and was not disappointed here in Las Vegas,” said Turner. “I saw so many different types beautiful pieces and spotted numerous trends. I can’t wait to bring some of these things back to my own store in Los Angeles.”

The trends discovered included:
Red Hots
Nearly every showroom featured pieces in candy apple red. Hot red combines well with chocolate, gray, navy and white. It has a tendency to give a graphic quality to a room and is an easy way to add instant spice to a project. It’s all you need to make a room sizzle.

Au Natural
Natural, unfinished materials that incorporate hand craftsmanship do not have to be exclusively rustic. At Las Vegas Market, several of these “natural” pieces had sexy and sleek shapes.Going au natural can add depth, soul, and character to a room.

Basketweave
Basketweave knew no limits in Las Vegas. It was featured on pieces with metal, rope, and wicker and caning accents. It brings outside in, allowing something you typically associate with the outdoors to be inside the home in a very chic, stylish manner. It could even take the place of a pattern.

Small Scale
In the 90s, the trendwas to do everythingbigger. Big houses, big rooms, big furniture. Now things are smaller with more details. Small scale pieces provide a more tailored, very sweet look.The economy has had a lot to do with it. McMansions are out and people aren’t looking to just fill up a house. And more than anything, they want their home to have pieces with personality.

Swivel
Because rooms are smaller they are required to be more dynamic, so multi-purpose pieces are critical. From the end of a bed to in front of a fireplace, pieces that swivel, rock or roll bring life and movement to a room while saving space.

Pop of Color
One of the latest crazes has been light grey, rough woods. But it can grow stale or boring. Dress up your neutrals with a jolt of color. At Las Vegas Market there has been a pop of color trend showing up in rustic pieces, wherethe color really emphasizes the contrast between the rough edges and a smooth, modern finish.

Retro Redefined
Forms from the 40s, 50s and 60s are now being made with materials to make the look more modern. These pieces give a whimsical element to any room, and offer more compatibility with today’s design options.

Black and White – the ultimate neutral
Black and white allows color to stand out in a room, and can bring a room to life. A lot of the black and white pieces at this year’s Las Vegas Market are very graphic, which really allows a piece to give a room a whole other dimension.

Chrome in the Home
Chrome gives any piece a clean, fresh look. Las Vegas Market featured countless retro pieces that were updated with a chrome element. Chrome adds a nice sparkle to a room and will work in both modern and traditionally designed homes, giving them a sharp, crisp finish.

The complete Ahead of the Curve webcast will be available for download on the Las Vegas Market’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/WorldMarketCenterLV. For more information on Las Vegas Market visit www.lasvegasmarket.com.

About World Market Center Las Vegas
World Market Center Las Vegas is an integrated home and hospitality contract furnishings showroom and trade complex. The campus showcases furniture, decorative accessories, gift, lighting, area rugs, home textiles and related segments, as well as the Las Vegas Design Center open daily to consumers and designers. For more information on World Market Center Las Vegas and its trade shows including the bi-annual Las Vegas Market and Gift+Home, visit www.wmclv.com. Find us on Facebook and Twitter.

World Market Center Las Vegas is a property of International Market Centers, L.P. (IMC), the world’s largest operator of premier showroom space for the furnishings, home décor and gift industries. International Market Centers owns and operates 11.5 million square feet of world-class exhibition space in High Point, N.C. and Las Vegas. IMC’s mission is to build and operate an innovative, sustainable, profitable and scalable platform for the furnishings, home décor and gift industries. For more information on IMC, visit imcenters.com.

Religious/inspirational picture frames

2011-08-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

Prinz launched a new collection of frames and albums featuring popular religious themes for the faith/inspirational market. The introduction features a variety of religious/inspirational themes designed to celebrate faith and family, including designs depicting Christening, First Communion, Confirmation and general inspirational. The Inspirational Collection debuted at the summer markets and is available for Sept. 1 shipping.

The Sacraments series, with offerings for Baptism, Christening and First Holy Communion, features metal frames with a matte silver finish. The frames hold 6x4 photos. Godparents and Godchildren are spotlighted in three frames in the You’re A Blessing series, which include an inspirational expression celebrating this special bond.

Wood frames with hand-painted resin cross accents are the focus of the In God’s Love collection, featuring offerings for Godparents, Godchild, Confirmation and First Holy Communion. Each frame also includes a special inspirational expression.

See the Prinz website for information about the religious and inspirational picture frames.

New candle fragrances for the holidays

2011-08-04T20:13:00.003-05:00

Six new Colonial Candle fall and holiday fragrances are designed to inspire holiday memories and create year-round favorites with distinctive and exotic scents. Exclusive new fragrances include Crimson Festival, Falling Leaves, Moroccan Market, Fig Torte, Sparkling Pomegranate and Illusion. Colonial's new fall and holiday fragrances are available in 8 and 22 ounce classic oval containers; 10, 15 and 23 ounce Traditions containers; 4 and 12.5 ounce flared square containers; as well as textured and smooth pillars, tealights, trialights and votives.

Colonial Candle's new Zinnia Garden candle collection features a vibrant and fashionable assortment of candles including 10-ounce round filled glass container candles with four assorted floral designs, floating flower-shaped blooms in pink and orange, flower tealights, a vanilla Bath-lite gift set, tea lights and votive holders. Varieties include Fresh Aloe, Southern Magnolia, Rosewood and Apricot Mint.

Gifts from France at the NY Gift Show

2011-08-03T06:53:00.001-05:00

This wine box is made from reclaimed boat wood. The holes, knots and cracks give a unique character to each piece. The lid holds a Laguiole type corkscrew and a wine stopper. The box comes with a pouch of wood shavings to cradle the wine bottle (not included). It is available from Arceau Marketing, which is showing at the SCIP Booth 2642 in the French pavilion during the New York Gift Show.

Olive wood has a distinctive grain and a Mediterranean look. It acquires a patina and ages beautifully. This collection is made in France by SCIP, a respected Laguiole manufacturer from Thiers, France since 1850.

Resin planter with orange dowels

2011-08-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

Pick Up Sticks is a game of physical and mental skill. It is also the basis for Pick Up Planter, from the Phillips Collection. The piece marries an amorphic vessel with a ring of rods. Jason Phillips says, "Although the appearance is random, the way the configuration is achieved is quite mathematical. I find the advanced molding and manufacturing of this organic piece to be intriguing." The planter measures 20 inches in diameter and 16 inces tall. It is made from artist-grade resin and finished in a glossy black lacquer with orange dowels. (Other finishes can be custom ordered.) For more about this product, see the Pick Up Planter website.

Stunning contemporary wall decor

2011-08-01T06:00:00.001-05:00

Roberta Schilling Collection exhibited new wall decor at the gift show in Atlanta this month. See more at the company's website or in the Americasmart building in Atlanta. The company's showroom is on the ninth floor of building one. Search "Roberta Schilling" on this blog to see furniture from this company.

Gold leaf wall decor, item CBV-257GD

2011-07-29T08:56:00.003-05:00

WallPops from Brewster Home Fashions offers a design-forward and coordinated line of peel and stick wall art. Two new product categories include chandeliers and decorative room panels. Among its new designs and products are:

Small and Large Wall Art Kits
Dry Erase Monthly Boards and Calendars
Weekly Dry Erase Dot Packs
Four-Piece Calendar Sets
Wall Words, Quotes
Mix-and-match Dots, Blox and Stripes
Wall art with gem and mirror embellishments

Existing collections range from nursery rhymes for baby, safari animals for children, flowers for tweens to modern patterns for adults of all ages. The company is exhibiting at the Chicago gift show this week. See more about WallPops at its website. See more about Brewster Home Fashions at its website.

A 2-story black cat for Halloween

2011-07-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

Hammacher Schlemmer's two-story inflatable black cat is nearly 21 feet tall. The cat’s underbelly is 9 feet above ground at the highest point. That's high enough to allow trick-or-treaters to walk underneath. Each paw is the size of an armchair. The cat’s head automatically sways side-to-side and it has illuminated, piercing red eyes, a fanged grin and 9¾-inch-long claws.

The inflatable cat is said to be easy to set up. The owner plugs in the integrated fan and the cat inflates in four minutes. The novelty folds to less than two square feet for convenient storage. See the Hammacher Schlemmer website for more information.

Greeting cards reward and recycle kindness

2011-07-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Kindness Recycled cards are designed to convey simple sentiments of kindness. The first line of cards includes "compliment," "service" or "just because." The concept is that the card is delivered in person and then registered online (at www.kindnessrecycled.com), so participants can track the journey of the cards they’ve given or received. The card giver can track the journey the card takes from one person to the next, and comment on the circumstances under which one gave or received a card.

Yiesha Beamon created Kindness Recycled in response to a tragic incident that occurred at her place of employment several years ago.

“I received such an outpouring of love through cards and letters from people all over the world,” Beamon said. “I always wanted to thank each of these people for helping me to recover. But more important, I wanted to spread this kindness that was given to me. These cards can really change the way we look at giving, greeting, reducing waste, social networking, traditions, and even fashion,” she said.

Kindness Recycled cards can be purchased individually at retail shops, in groups of three or nine or in bulk orders, or by visiting www.kindnessrecycled.com. See the company at the Chicago gift show this month.

Candle warmers and fragrances for the holidays

2011-07-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

Candle Warmers Etc. has introduced several new festive candle warmer designs that are said to help protect against holiday candle fires. The products promote the use of flameless candles in the home, while providing the appearance and fragrance of a regular lit candle. “Fall Leaves” is a ceramic pitcher in a gold-tone leaf motif. "Santa” has a merry smile.

New cheerful Plug-in Fragrance Warmer designs make decorating every room an especially safe and easy option for hosts this holiday season. The new “Jack-o-lantern” and “Snowman” Plug-in Fragrance Warmers use scented oils and wax melts.

The company suggests pairing its fragrance warmers with its Jamie Clair Wax Melts in new holiday fragrances: Pumpkin Spice, Peppermint, Evergreen, and Chocolate Mint. New Jamie Clair Home Fragrance Oils include Vanilla Crème Brulee.

Illumination Fragrance Warmers use a soft light to create the ambiance of a burning candle. The company’s candle warming lamps and lanterns use a patented top-down design to warm a wicked or wickless candle. Four hand-painted fall and winter lamp shade designs are also available this holiday season for the company’s popular Aurora Candle Warmer Lamp.

Swedish garlic press is easy to clean

2011-07-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

Linden Sweden Inc. introduces the Click & Clean Garlic Press X by Jonas of Sweden. The Teflon-coated Click & Clean is available in cast aluminum which is said to mince garlic more efficiently. The garlic press fits comfortably in the hand. It is easy to use and easy to clean. The gadget will be available in October.

Linden Sweden is an importer of housewares and kitchen gadgets from Scandinavian companies. Product lines includes twixit bag clips, Clever Hook, Tulip Spice Grinders (bottom photo) and Daloplast of Sweden.

Tulip spice grinders

Furnishings industry honors Allan H. Palecek

2011-07-23T16:28:00.004-05:00

Allan H. Palecek to Receive Academy of Achievement Honor at 23rd Annual ARTS Awards

DALLAS – Dallas Market Center, the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace, and the Accessories Resource Team (ART), the trade association representing the decorative accessory industry, today announced that Allan H. Palecek, founder/CEO and lead designer of Palecek, will receive the Academy of Achievement Award at the 23rd annual ARTS Awards taking place on Saturday, January 21, 2012.

“Allan’s dedication to design, function and craftsmanship have led his brand to become one of the most recognized and well-respected in the industry,” said Bill Winsor, president and CEO, Dallas Market Center. “His contribution to the home décor industry is immeasurable and we are pleased to recognize his nearly 35 years of excellence with this honor.”

The ARTS Awards is the premier awards program for the home decorative accessories industry. The Academy of Achievement honor is awarded each year to recognize companies and/or individuals that have made significant contributions to the industry. The award will be presented at the ARTS Awards new location, the Hilton Anatole Hotel.

Allan H. Palecek was born in 1944 to Eddie and Laverne Palecek in Munden, Kan. Eddie and Laverne raised Allan and younger sister Patricia on the family’s wheat and cattle farm; instilling in them a deep respect for hard work. Allan’s education began in a one-room country school house and he went on to graduate from Emporia State University with a degree in business. After college, Allan joined the Air Force and spent six years as a pilot. Following flying missions in Vietnam, Allan was stationed near San Francisco, Calif., where the idea for Palecek first came to him while waiting for a job as an airline pilot. The Bay Area has been home ever since for him and his wife Nancy, whom he met in 1973. The following year, Palecek was first introduced to the industry at the San Francisco Gift Show on the bottom shelf of another vendor’s display. Despite the placement of the product Allan had an incredibly successful show and set up shipping from his garage. He received his first shipment from Asia in 1974, one box of baskets that fit into the back of a borrowed pickup truck. After landing his first major customer, Bloomingdales, in 1975, Palecek moved to a 3,000-square-foot basement without windows, plumbing or an elevator.

After two years of traveling the globe looking for beautiful items, it became evident to Allan that there was a need for the design of accessories focusing on function, beauty and style. Designing products soon became a passion for Allan. By 1979, he had designed extensive furniture, lamp and gift lines. Today, in-house custom lamp production, furniture finishing, custom upholstery and a hospitality division make Palecek unique in the industry. Allan has designed collections of home furnishings that blend old world inspired designs, modern flair and a traditional aesthetic with a commitment to natural and sustainable fibers and handcrafted elegance.

Residing in the heart of San Francisco, Calif. for seven years, Palecek headquarters then moved to Richmond, Calif., where the brand became one of the largest employers in the area; at one point occupying five separate warehouses. Today, Palecek occupies a 220,000-square-foot facility, housing all departments as well as corporate offices. There are now seven Palecek showrooms and numerous designer trade showrooms across the country.

Some of Allan’s numerous charitable contributions include: Habitat for Humanity, Hospice, Red Cross disaster relief, Build the Cure Dream House, Children in Crisis, Child Haven, Samaritan’s Purse disaster relief, New York Lower East Side Settlement, Neighborhood House, El Cerrito/Richmond Police and Firefighters, the Bay Area Rescue Mission, Richmond Chamber of Commerce, as well as local schools and womens’ shelters.

Allan and wife Nancy are parents to son, Andrew, and daughter, Karey, both of which have spent time as Palecek designers. Andrew Palecek currently serves as the company’s vice president and Karey now works for Ralph Lauren Home. Nancy acts as the general merchandise manager and director of marketing and merchandising for Palecek.

The 23rd annual ARTS Awards are sponsored by Contract Lighting, Gifts & Decorative Accessories, HFN, Home Accents Today, Home Fashion & Hospitality, Home Lighting & Accessories, Overcoffee, Residential Lighting and the Sustainable Furnishings Council. Reservations to attend the ARTS Awards will be available online in November 2011.

The Accessories Resource Team (ART) is the association representing accessorymanufacturers, retailers, representatives and other industry individuals and companiesinterested in promoting the decorative home accessories industry. The association’s goal is toenhance the market position of decorative home accessories. Each year ART sponsorsprograms such as the ART conference, regional educational seminars and the ARTS Awards. See the Accessories Resource Team website.

About the ARTS Awards
The ARTS Awards is the premier awards program dedicated to the home decorative accessories industry. Twenty-six categories exist under the headings Manufacturer, Retailer, Product Designer, Sales Representative, Rising Star, Green Design and Academy of Achievement. Anyone in the industry can nominate including manufacturers, retailers, sales representatives, designers, suppliers, consultants and other industry officials. The Academy of Achievement honoree is selected by the ARTS Awards committee each year. Companies that have won the ARTS Awards five times are inducted into the Hall of Fame. Hall of Fame members are: BJ’s Home Accents, C.S. Wo & Sons, Distinctive Designs International Inc., Feizy Rugs, Fine Art Lamps, Global Views, Montaage, Natural Decorations Inc., Palecek, Paragon, Robb & Stucky and Schonbek Worldwide Lighting.

Source: Dallas Market Center

Serveware, barware, hostess gifts

2011-07-22T06:00:00.001-05:00

Suzy Toronto Collection. New serveware designs from popular licensed artist Suzy Toronto includes tabletop for home entertaining, cosmetic bags, water bottles and gifts for girls of any age. Bright colors, fun patterns and humorous text are signature Suzy, applied to formats such as glasses, snack plates, platter, place card holder set, cosmetic bags, water bottles, luggage tags, pill boxes and credit/business card holders.

Wine & Vine. Contemporary barware, accessories and hostess gifts are exclusive designs by Midwest-CBK in-studio artists. Formats include glassware, snack plates, serving dishes, wine toppers, bar towels, cheese boards and markers, cork holder, cocktail and cheese picks and wine holder, featuring tongue-in-cheek phrases such as "Aged perfectly," "Cork it," "Wineaux," "Grape therapy," "Time to wine," "Wine a little, laugh a lot" and "Wine time.

Nature's Soul. Inspirational quotes and beautiful designs lift the spirit and soothe the soul. Style is contemporarly with brushed silver finish and designs made of metal, glass and canvas. Formats include ornaments/pins/charms (all in one), angel figurines, keepsake boxes, candle holders, wish and prayer stones, photo frames, night lights and wall crosses.

All are available from Midwest-CBK. The company has showrooms in Atlanta, Billerica, Mass., Chicago, Dallas, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, Seattle and Toronto. It also exhibits are regional shows.

Contemporary seating, dining tables

2011-07-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

The Su Chaise (above) and the Butterfly Tables (below) are new to the Moderna Collection by Roberta Schilling. The company exhibited at the Atlanta gift show this month. The Roberta Schilling Collection is shown in Americasmart, Building 1, Showroom #9-C-7, 9 (ninth floor).

Spiced sour cherry spread honored at show

2011-07-20T06:00:00.001-05:00

Spiced Sour Cherry Spread from The Gracious Gourmet was named a sofi Gold Award winner in the category of Outstanding Condiment at this month's Fancy Food show in Washington, D.C. The Spiced Sour Cherry Spread is an intensely cherry-favored spread produced by simmering Morello cherries, tart dried cherries and spices with red Burgundy wine.

Serve the spread with chicken, duck, pork or game. The food can also be used to accompany soft or semi-soft cow or sheep cheeses; mixed into basmati rice; atop a plain cheesecake; or spooned over chocolate or vanilla ice cream.

In 2009, The Gracious Gourmet earned a sofi Silver Finalist Award from the NASFT for its Dilled Carrot Tomato Tapenade. The line has also earned numerous awards from The Connecticut Specialty Food Association.

Connect with the company on its Facebook page or follow it on Twitter (@graciousgourmet).

Gifts and home decor at California Gift Show

2011-07-19T06:00:00.004-05:00

MMPI and California Gift Show (CGS) announce a strong line-up of unique, on-trend products and collections debuting at Market this July. More than 10,000 lines from over 1,200 temporary exhibitors and permanent showrooms will provide buyers a myriad of product offerings with emphasis on the region’s emerging product designers, artists and craftsmen, placing California at the forefront of international design. The show runs Tuesday, July 19 to Monday, July 25.

New to Los Angeles Convention Center, The Editor At Large curated exhibition, California Bespoke introduces to buyers a gallery-inspired design showcase presenting one-of-a-kind, limited edition and new-to-market home fashions, accessories, hand-crafted objects and original works of art from the region’s next generation of design tastemakers. Following is a sample of gifts and accessories to be exhibited there. (Descriptions and photos courtesy of California Gift Show.)

Amery Carrière Designs introduces the Monarch wing with diamonds necklace. Produced in downtown Los Angeles, this vermeil monarch wing is accented with 5 diamonds on a 42" oxidized sterling chain; it can be worn long or doubled for a shorter necklace. All of Amery’s designs are hand-carved in wax in her Silverlake studio, located in southern California. Each piece is cast using the ancient art of lost-wax casting. www.amerycarriere.com CGS Location: Beckman’s Handcrafted Show, Booth 203, L.A. Mart

Textile Treasures introduces a very special, Qing Dynasty Zhaung baby carrier, an heirloom over 100 years old. Qing Dynasty Zhaung baby carrier was made by the TuZu Zhang minority group from Wenshang County, Yunnan Province, China. Exquisite carrier with dramatic raised, soiled white piled stitched spiral shapes; infill and side strips of intricate gold foil couched beaten cloth appliqué including coins; bottom bordered with fancy chain knotted stitch of floral design on red silk 24”x23” (not including black carrier); this heirloom item is over 100 years old Such baby carriers are very hard to find in good condition and of this quality; Textile Treasures carries other one-of-a-kind pieces that are similar. CGS Location: Kentia Global Marketplace, Los Angeles Convention Center

Bend Seating introduces The Farmhouse Lounge Chair is as sturdy as an antiquated piece of farm machinery, and as easy to relax in after 10 hours on the clock as a pair of worn out dungarees. Despite its pure geometry there is a rustic quality in this chair; the backrest is inspired by the architecture of old Amish barns. Select Orange, Black or White finish, then select with or without optional quilted cushion in 1 of 4 colors. www.bendseating.com CGS Location: Fine Lines Company, Suite 449, L.A. Mart

Bunnies by the Bay features its Skipits Best Vest, Bucket Hat and Snugs, new products for an existing line at the California Gift Show represented by Joanne and Company at L.A. Mart. A sweet and sporty look with a cozy collar that joins together with soft floppy ears; puppy pockets just the right size for busy hands; stitched on front. Finish the outfit with soft fleece hat with floppy ears and a sweet puppy face (cream cotton knit lining) and lined snug go-go booties with red skid soles. www.bunniesbythebay.com
CGS Location: Joanne & Company, Suite 340, L.A. Mart

Bauer Pottery Company of Los Angeles manufactures Bauer 2000 pottery styled after Bauer vintage American pottery, Russel Wright's American Modern line of dinnerware and gardenware under the Home by Sunset™ banner. As an accent in the yard, center- piece for a table or elsewhere ‘round the house, the new Garden Orb will is available in three sizes. www.bauerpottery.com CGS Location: California Bespoke Exhibit, South Hall, Los Angeles Convention Center

Caleb Siemon Glassware features the Chaos Wrap Pendant which uses a chaos wrap over clear or metalic crystal. Differences in melting temperatures are exploited to create a textural and bulbous surface. The wraps create unique and dynamic shadows on the surrounding environment. Handblown, signed and shaped in lead free crystal by Caleb Siemon and made in Southern California.
www.calebandcarmen.com CGS Location: California Bespoke Exhibit, South Hall, Los Angeles Convention Center

Toss Designs introduces the Magnificent Vineyard Tote, The perfectly stylish every day tote! One interior zipped and two exterior front pockets keep you organized. Zip closure. The vinyl covering wipes clean. Since 2004, the girls at Toss have been living and breathing handbags! With a flair for fashion and an eye for detail, Toss has become the authority on totes, travel bags and all accessories in between. Design house located in California. www.tossdesigns.com CGS Location: Remembrance, Suite 360, L.A. Mart

Grandway Honduras introduces Red Cherry Gloveables, waterproof gloves unlike any ordinary kitchen glove. The perfect way to protect your hands while still being fashionable and comfortable – Gloveables brand gloves are ideal for cleaning, dish washing, gardening, and anything else that could spoil a manicure. www.grandwayhonduras.com CGS Location: Showroom 504 On 3/Cina Hodges, Suite 304, L.A. Mart

Samuel Price Art features “Anita,” an eco-friendly 24"x30"collage on canvas (2010). Samuel Price is a self trained artist from San Francisco, California. Price creates stylized contemporary designs using donated recycled magazines to assemble his paper collage. He has been creating collage portraits for over ten years resulting in a wide body of original artwork for sale and commission. Samuel Price Art is new to the California Gift Show. www.samuelpriceart.com

Gated Distribution, Inc. brings its Reva Expanding Flower Vase to CGS for the first time. Reva is ultra-portable and convenient, use it again and again, or recycle it. Great for bulk purchases for parties, banquets and religious celebrations; it is durable, stable and shatterproof - kid and pet safe. Ideal for gifting flowers on any occasion! Reva™ is environmentally friendly - RECYCLABLE #1; no PVC; much less energy & fuel used during production and transportation compared to traditional glass & ceramic vases. This product/line is new to the California Gift Show; company is Southern California based. CGS Location: South Hall #2536, Los Angeles Convention Center

Irons & Duck showcases its Saw Horse Shelving unit made from an original saw horse discovered locally on location in Los Angeles. Three shelves fabricated using local metal and workmanship. www.ironsandduck.com CGS Location: Beckman’s Handcrafted Show, Booth 633, L.A. Mart.

Chehoma is the Belgian maker of gorgeous home accents and embellishments, making their West Coast debut at the Stephen Young showroom. Their designers bring a unique sense of whimsy and charm into all of their items. From decorative notions like ornaments, to candle holders and picture frames, Chehoma’s pieces are both unique and beautiful. CGS Location: Stephen Young, Suite 830, 839, L.A. Mart

Geared for Imagination introduces its Ze Super Heroes, hero friends whose super powers and problems blend. They are for all ages; detachable cape comforter; pouch to store little treasures; 8.5 inches tall. Geared for Imagination is an Ohio-based creator and distributor of high-quality products for kids and 'kidults'. Through a network of retail outlets around the United States, including gift shops, toy stores, museum shops and many more types of retailers, the company strives to deliver the kinds of products that they want their own kids to play with. Products are "Driven by Design, Powered by Play". Geared for Imagination was founded in 2009 by two dads, Ryan Hamilton (2 daughters, 1 son) and Bret Faber (1 daughter, 1 son). Their many years in the toy business and their experience as fathers help them find only the best products to bring to market. www.gearedforimagination.com CGS Location: new to Anne McGilvray & Company, Suite 345, L.A. Mart

Jellycat, the British design-led soft toy company based in London brings Scruff Pup to CGS. Their quirky creatures and accessories are a big hit in Europe, where they are perceived more as fashion accessories than soft toys, and are becoming increasingly collectible. Jellycat wants to influence people’s lives, really making them smile as they buy and they believe their animals do just that. www.jellycat.com
CGS Location: Stephen Young, Suites 830, 839, L.A. Mart

The Little Acorn brings its Best Friends placemats and Little Acorn Rugs to CGS for the very first time. This San Francisco based company brings a fresh spin on children’s décor – offering wall art, pillows and other decorative items. Desiring for every child to grow up happy, Little Acorn incorporates educational messages within each finely designed product. Hand-hooked 100% virgin wool, rugs feature new yarn technique that minimizes shedding (safer for young children and easier to care for); latex free, cotton-duck backing. CGS Location: South Hall #2201, Los Angeles Convention Center

Tina Frey Designs of San Francisco are designers and makers of a collection of useful everyday objects and jewelry in resin available in a variety of delicious colors around the world. The pieces in the collection are hand sculpted by Tina Frey. Sculpting starts with an idea that is cohesive with the rest of the collection. Inspirations for the designs come from many things: The shapes are inspired by organic forms in nature and objects found in travels around the world. Featured is the medium pedestal in pink. www.tinafreydesigns.com CGS Location: California Bespoke Exhibit, South Hall, Los Angeles Convention Center

Contemporary dining room buffet

2011-07-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

The Mole buffet, from Roberta Schilling's Moderna collection, is made of smooth metal, exotic woods, ﬁne leather and delicate ﬁbers. These materials are cut into clean lines and striking shapes. Find furniture and decorative accessories for the home in the Roberta Schilling showroom in Building 1, Floor 9, Showroom #9-C-7, 9 of Americasmart, Atlanta.

Social Media Bar returns to Las Vegas market

2011-07-17T11:52:00.003-05:00

The Hot Spot: Social Media Bar Returns for Summer Market

Popular Market Feature Designed to Help Attendees Increase Social Media Presence

By Las Vegas World Market Center

LAS VEGAS – (July 15, 2011) — Attendees of World Market Center Las Vegas’ Summer 2011 Las Vegas Market will once again have the opportunity to “join the conversation” as they learn about all the ways they can increase their social media presence – and ultimately their bottom-line – with the return of The Hot Spot: Social Media Bar.

The Hot Spot: Social Media Bar, now in its third incarnation, will allow for market attendees to meet with experts who can provide the latest tips and techniques on how to maximize their presence and fully connect with their customers in the ever-changing medium of social media. This summer’s Hot Spot will also boast a new location at C-301, and will feature informational sessions twice a day, Monday through Wednesday, one for beginners and one for intermediate users, that will provide hands-on training for social media and tips for online marketing.

“Social media continues to be an important platform where businesses can connect with their key audiences,” said Dana Andrew, vice president of marketing and public relations for World Market Center Las Vegas. “But, the fact remains that many people do not know how to take full advantage of this medium as a method of generating business. We see Hot Spot as a value-add for our attendees that will get them tweeting and updating their fans and followers in a way that will ultimately benefit their bottom-line.”

The Hot Spot: Social Media Bar was inspired by the Apple Genius Bar and was introduced at the 2010 Summer Las Vegas Market. Free assistance is provided by Christi Tullis of PuTTin’ OuT, who in addition to providing the latest tips for social media usage, can also help market visitors register their companies and brands on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Catch the twitter conversation going on now, simply search #lvmkt.

About PuTTin’ OuT
PuTTin’ OuT is a renowned online marketing & social media consulting firm planning, consulting, and executing marketing campaigns for businesses for sites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Foursquare, Digg, and Tumblr. CEO of PuTTin’ OuT, Christi Tullis was an early adopter of social media when marketing her suburban, award winning Atlanta-based retail store, Ambiance Interiors & Gifts, Inc. In 2003, Tullis began a “Spot the Dot” campaign on MySpace utilizing her black H2 Hummer with white polka dots mimicking the Ambiance branded gift wrap instantly became an instant social sensation. Tullis understands the unique marketing position of the gift and home industry from markets, buyers, storeowners and interior designers. For more information on Tullis and PuTTin’ OuT, visit www.PuTTinOuT.com or find her on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

About World Market Center
Las Vegas  World Market Center Las Vegas is an integrated home and hospitality contract furnishings showroom and trade complex. The campus showcases furniture, decorative accessories, gift, lighting, area rugs, home textiles and related segments, as well as the Las Vegas Design Center open daily to consumers and designers. For more information on World Market Center Las Vegas and its trade shows including the bi-annual Las Vegas Market and Gift+Home, visit www.wmclv.com. Find us on Facebook and Twitter.

World Market Center Las Vegas is a property of International Market Centers, L.P. (IMC), the world’s largest operator of premier showroom space for the furnishings, home décor and gift industries. International Market Centers owns and operates 11.5 million square feet of world-class exhibition space in High Point, N.C. and Las Vegas. IMC’s mission is to build and operate an innovative, sustainable, profitable and scalable platform for the furnishings, home décor and gift industries. For more information on IMC, visit imcenters.com.

Follow the “best of” the Atlanta gift market live

2011-07-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

bwconnect to Stream “Best of” Market Info Live in Atlanta

Complimentary Food, Drink, Samples, Giveaways and Events Info Available in Real Time

By bwconnect

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – bwconnect™, the online wholesale shopping site dedicated to the gift & home industry, will be connecting retailers in Atlanta with a live, up-to-the-minute listing of all the food, drink, swag and party information as it happens. The service, called #WhoWhatWhere allows retailers to know, at any given time during their shopping experience, where the best complimentary services can be found. Whenever they get hungry, decide it's time for a drink, need a little something sweet, or want to find the hottest event - they can simply check the stream and have a live listing at their fingertips.

To access the free service, users simply hop on twitter at www.twitter.com and follow the bwconnect account (@bwconnect). To see a complete list of everything going on including other’s comments, click on any of the highlighted #WhoWhatWhere hashtag links or enter #WhoWhatWhere in the twitter search box. Retweeting a listing with a personal message attached can also be a convenient way meet up with friends during market.

bwconnect™ is the only free wholesale shopping site specifically for Gift and Home retailers that lets them shop thousands of new products from more than a hundred suppliers with a single shopping cart while connecting with their rep. The service was created by Brandwise, the leading sales technology company that has been dedicated exclusively to servicing the Gift and Home industry since 1997 when it first introduced hand-scanning technology to the industry.

“Brandwise technology has always been aimed at enabling manufacturers and sales reps to sell more efficiently and the retailer ultimately has benefited in the end with an enhanced buying experience,” says Todd Litzman, president of Brandwise. “bwconnect is our online portal made directly for the convenience of the retailer to work with their rep and supplier anytime 24/7. We wanted to do something directly for the retailers at market and this seemed like a common-sense way to provide them with the most up-to-date information they want, when they want it, and using some of the latest social media technology to even further enhance their buying experience.”

All showroom exhibitors are welcome to submit their complimentary services for inclusion on #WhoWhatWhere by sending details to Joyce Kesler at jkesler[at]brandwise.com.

About Brandwise

Brandwise is an Application Service Provider (ASP) delivering hosted software solutions to manufacturers and their sales organizations within multiple industries. Combining Order Capture and Integration technology, Business Intelligence, B2B e-Commerce, and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) to enhance the coordination and communication of information between manufacturers and their sales channels, the Brandwise product suite integrates a series of powerful and leading-edge tools that help Suppliers and Sales Reps efficiently sell more products to their retailer customers in a collaborative environment. In over 12 years of operation, Brandwise consistently brings a fresh perspective, and revolutionary advancements, to a number of vertical markets from Gift and Home to Publishing, Apparel, Footwear and Sporting Goods.

Events and specials from Atlanta gift show exhibitors

2011-07-11T06:00:00.003-05:00

Calypso Studios is giving away free feather necklaces to the first 100 buyers Thursday, Friday and Saturday in The Southern Link Showroom 1613.

Imax Worldwide Home says: "Place an order of $1,500 during our summer shows, and you could be reimbursed for your market expenses of up to $750! All qualifying orders will be entered into drawings to win." The prize may be exchanged for an order discount of $750. Imax will make the same offer at the Las Vegas Market.

Meet jewelry artist Debra Mitchell from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (July 14-16) in the Transpac Showroom – Bldg. 1, Suite 19-D10. Designed by Debra Mitchell, jewelry artisan and creator of Twisted Silver, LLC, a company known for its use of intermingled found objects, metals and natural elements, PERCH features approximately 75 designs and 200 SKUs that highlight three different trend categories: Chain Gang, Well Dressed and Natural Elements. Individuals who place an order of $100 or more will receive a free bracelet from the new PERCH collection, as a thank you from Transpac.

Just Got 2 Have It!, Building 2, Floor 16, Suite 1637

Royal Treatment. Friday, July 15, from 4 to 8 p.m. Enjoy music, fashion and cocktails from London UK. The first 50 retailers who place orders that day will receive a free gift!
Saturday, July 16, fro 4 to 7 p.m. enjoy a “Taste of Britain.” There will be a selection of British cuisine including Shepherd’s pie, ales and cocktails. Throughout the day, enjoy other British experiences and treats. Each customer who places an order that day will be qualified to win a gift basket filled with our Bond Street favorites valued at $500.
Sunday, July 17, from 4 to 6 p.m. Enjoy High Tea with light fare, sweet treats, jams, clotted cream, and English teas. Each order placed that day will be entered to win a free spa day at the Ritz Carlton valued at $300.

Manual Woodworkers & Weavers is having a drawing for an iPad on Saturday, July 16. All who place an order on Saturday will be entered
into the drawing. Manual is also having a drawing for a Kindle both Friday, July 15 and Saturday, July 16, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. to enter. Buyers must be present to win. All drawings will be held Friday and Saturday evenings at 6 p.m. AmericasMart Building 2,West Wing Suite 697.

Sunday special: A new book by Pamela Danziger

2011-07-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

"Putting the Luxe Back in Luxury: How New Consumer Values are Redefining the Way We Market Luxury" by Pamela N. Danziger

By Paramount Market Publishing

Meet the HENRYs (High Earning Not Rich Yet households with incomes of $100,000 or more). They along with their wealthier counterparts, including the sometimes overlooked millionaires living next door, make up the top 20 percent of household incomes in the U.S. and account for more than 80 percent of all luxury spending. You will find them in the lobbies of five-star hotels, at boutique counters, and on the sales floors of high-end department stores. They can also be found at auto shows and in art galleries, and they are often major contributors to a wide spectrum of not-for-profit organizations.

Butterflies and Temperate Pragmatists
But clearly this market is not one market. This new book by one of the foremost experts on retail and discretionary spending redefines the luxury market today, segmenting it by the obvious demographics of age and income, and by the more nuanced characteristics of life stage and lifestyle, which better explain consumer relationships with high-end brands.

The author uses survey data collected between 2007 and the first quarter of 2011 to define five distinct groups within the luxury market--Butterflies, Cocooners, Aspirers, Temperate Pragmatists, and X-Fluents. Each of these groups makes up approximately one fifth of the market. Understanding these five groups of consumers, especially the new Temperate Pragmatists, will be the key to surviving and thriving in today's highly competitive luxury marketplace.

A 10-Year Drought
Pam Danziger is one of the most astute observers of how consumers spend their discretionary income. In this, her latest book, she offers insights into the shopping and spending behavior of top-tier consumers, warning that as Baby Boomers age out of their peak earning (and spending) years, luxury markets won't see another wave of consumers with as much spending power until about 2020. In the meantime, marketers, retailers and service providers will have to work harder and smarter to maintain or grow their brand share.

"Putting the Luxe Back in Luxury" also examines the myth that luxury consumers don't use the internet and points out that many luxury marketers are missing the mark by refusing to allow their time-starved clients to shop online. Replete with interviews from dozens of retail industry experts, thought leaders, and top brand executives the book offers you their sage advice along with strategies and Danziger's own prescriptions for rainmaking in the face of the drought.

Find out about the demographic and economic forces that will shape the high-end market for the next 10 years. Learn how leading brands are adjusting to the biggest wave of changes to sweep through the luxury market in decades.

An important book for brand managers and a must-read book for marketers of all stripes.

(272 pages, paperback, ISBN 978-0-9819869-4-4; May 2011)

Gift show briefs

2011-07-09T15:59:00.002-05:00

New York gift show offers mobile phone app
A new and improved “Wayfinder App” for mobile devices will provide a wide range of information to help attendees and exhibitors navigate the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF) more efficiently. The free application is available for download through iTunes, the Android Market, BlackBerry App World, and http://search.nyigf.com/mobile.aspx. With an improved keyword search capability, the new NYIGF Wayfinder application allows users to pin-point search for exhibitors or products by name, product line, product category or description. Real-time results include company names and booth locations, and all of the mobile data synchronizes with the online information available through the NYIGF website, www.nyigf.com.

Rug showrooms relocate at the Las Vegas Market
Rug showrooms on the eighth floor of Building C of the Las Vegas Market are moving to Building B, floors 3, 4 and 5, co-locating within the complementary home décor and adjacent rug showrooms in Building B, and providing a better overall connectivity to the existing spaces within that segment.

"With the move to Building B, these rug showrooms will experience a new synergy and excitement with the strong home décor segment at Las Vegas Market," said Robert Maricich, chief executive officer for International Market Centers, parent company of World Market Center Las Vegas. "Retailers will be equally pleased with the convenience of these new resources and the cross-buying opportunities it presents on these floors."

Re-merchandising the floor coverings segment to encompass home accents and decorative accessories and joining a majority of existing rug companies already existing in Building B ultimately creates a more convenient shopping experience for Las Vegas Market buyers. Rug companies in new locations at Las Vegas Market include Chandra, Natco/Central Oriental, Dynamic Rugs, Masland Carpet and Rugs, Rizzy Rugs and CMI (Colonial Mills, Inc.).

Dallas gift market round-up

2011-07-06T06:02:00.001-05:00

June Market: New Product Categories, Growing Temporaries & Inspiration

– Total Home & Gift Market sets the tone for the summer show season –

By Dallas Market Center
DALLAS – June 30, 2011 – Dallas Market Center, the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace, today announced that its recent Total Home & Gift Market, held June 22-28, attracted more buyers, included new temporary resources, and offered greater inspiration to buyers from around the world. Market highlights included: attendees from 50 states and 41 countries; the largest FINDS Dallas Temp Show since June 2008; and an increase in overall attendance, including a double-digit increase in international buyers.

“The relatively strong regional economy attracted more buyers and many new vendors to market,” said Bill Winsor, president and CEO, Dallas Market Center. “Exhibitors reported larger orders and a sense of optimism about the second half of the year, specifically in the gift industry where stores were stocking up for fourth quarter selling.”

During Market, IV Pole Pals and its founder, Deric Salser, were named The Next Big Thing winner on Saturday, June 25. IV Pole Pals are cheerful decorations that attach onto IV poles adding something special for patients needing their spirits lifted. The “pals” come in many shapes, sizes and themes and snap on and off any standard IV pole. Salser was inspired by his 8-year-old daughter, Alexandra, who was diagnosed with an incurable disease called LCHAD. To take the fear out of needing an IV, Salser’s wife crafted homemade decorations and attached them to Alexandra's IV pole. The decorations were the inspiration for the product line that now consists of more than 40 different “pals”. IV Pole Pals now has a permanent home at Dallas Market Center in Diverse Marketing, World Trade Center #421. For more information on IV Pole Pals visit www.ivpolepals.com. (Search the blog for a photo and write up.)

Also, Dallas Design Supply officially opened its doors to buyers during June Market, holding a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 23. The store is a 20,000-square-foot resource for seasonal décor, floral containers and supplies, candles, ribbon, party supplies and permanent botanicals. The Dallas Design Supply customer base includes retailers, design professionals (florists, event planners, designers, and visual merchandisers) and qualified consumers such as charity organizers and educators. Items in Dallas Design Supply are available for immediate purchase, which sets it apart from other showrooms on campus. For more information visit www.dallasdesignsupply.com.

Another highlight of the Total Home & Gift Market was the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market Collection. Artists from around the world traveled to Dallas to show their products before heading to the world’s largest folk art market in Santa Fe, N.M. Each artist makes a difference for their families and communities through the sale of their one-of-a-kind handmade products. Sales of the artists’ goods during Market exceeded expectations and their presence created an unmatchable ambience in The Grand Pavilion of the Trade Mart.

June Market also marked the debut of the new product category Handmade & Vintage FINDS which featured independent creators and designers presenting home, gift and jewelry/fashion accessories from regional and national designers using many techniques and supplies to make their products. On Thursday, June 23, Dallas Market Center, along with Residential Lighting magazine, announced the winners of the second annual Showroom of the Year Awards. The event, hosted in the lighting expansion area of the Trade Mart, recognized the best lighting retailers in North America in six different categories. Approximately 200 guests gathered to enjoy hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and celebrate the winners.
There were dozens of educational seminars held throughout June Market led by industry insiders including: Rawlins Gilliland, retail expert; J Schwanke, AIFD, PFCI, AAF and floral design expert; Mary Liz Curtin, author of A Shopkeeper Manual and owner of Leon & Lulu; Leatrice Eiseman, color specialist; and Roy Prevost, motivational expert.

Make plans now to attend the next Dallas Total Home & Gift Market being held September 10-12, 2011. Attendees may contact the Dallas Market Center’s in-house travel agency, Market Travel®, for substantial travel and hotel discounts by calling 1-800-DAL-MKTS. To keep up-to-date on market information visit Dallas Market Center on Facebook and Twitter.

About Dallas Market Center
Founded in 1957, Dallas Market Center is the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace. Within its
marketplace of more than five million square feet, retailers from around the globe source products
ranging from home furnishings, gifts, decorative accessories and lighting to textiles, fashion accessories
and men's, western, women's and children's apparel. With more than 50 markets each year attended by
more than 200,000 retail buyers from all 50 states and 78 countries, Dallas Market Center offers
hundreds of events and seminars geared toward helping retailers expand business and increase profits.
As a result, more than $8 billion in estimated wholesale transactions are conducted annually within the Dallas Market Center complex. The Dallas Market Center website is available at www.dallasmarketcenter.com.

Accent pillows fit for nautical decor

2011-07-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

Kevin O'Brien Studio's nautical-themed accent pillows will be shown at the summer wholesale gift shows, including those in Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and New York.

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T21:07:00.002-05:00

Here is a rough draft of the Declaration of Independence in Thomas Jefferson's handwriting. See more at the Library of Congress.

ARTS Awards names judges

2011-07-01T18:00:00.001-05:00

23rd Annual ARTS Awards Judges Announced

Dallas Market Center and the Accessories Resource Team to host awards gala at Hilton Anatole Hotel

By Dallas Market Center
DALLAS – June 28, 2011 – Dallas Market Center, the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace, and the Accessories Resource Team (ART), the trade association representing the decorative accessory industry, today announced the judges for the 23rd annual ARTS Awards. This distinguished judging panel will select winners in 28 different categories. The awards will be presented during a gala event on Saturday, January 21, 2012 at the ARTS Awards new location, the Hilton Anatole Hotel. The ARTS Awards is the premier awards program for the decorative accessories industry and is held each January during the Dallas Total Home & Gift Market.

The judges are:
Martha Griffin joined Design Guide 13 years ago and quickly worked her way up from sales to executive editor. She brings more than 16 years of experience to her position and a unique understanding of the design community. Griffin attended the University of Mississippi where she earned a degree in Interior Design.

Donna Moss has earned a reputation for creating unique and timeless interiors in her many years in the design world. She has won numerous awards for her work and has been featured in several magazines since beginning her design business in the early 1980’s. As co-owner of “That’s Haute,” an interior design, home décor, and women’s fashion store, Moss has been able to keep a high degree of individual attention and personal service with her clients. Most recently she has added reality TV to her resume as one of nine designers on HGTV’s first season of “Design Star.”

Melanie Belew has more than 20 years of experience in both residential and commercial design. She has created a broad spectrum of interiors ranging from classical to contemporary. After working as a designer in Gabbert’s design studio, Belew has been self-employed and practicing interior design for the last 10 years with Belew Design Studio. She attended the University of North Texas, and is licensed with the state of Texas as an interior designer.

Susan Inglis has more than 20 years experience as a producer, importer, sourcing agent and broker in the home furnishings, fashion and gift industries. She has worked in 19 countries on five continents providing services ranging from identifying procedures for ensuring the sustainability of a natural resource base, to market-led product development. This will be her second year as judge of the Manufacturer Green Award which recognizes excellence in sustainable practices and standards.

The ARTS Awards finalists will be announced in August 2011. For additional information regarding the ARTS Awards, please contact Lindsey Villarreal at 214-655-7654 or lvillarreal@mcmcmail.com.

About Dallas Market Center
Founded in 1957, Dallas Market Center is the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace. Within its marketplace of more than five million square feet, retailers from around the globe source products ranging from home furnishings, gifts, decorative accessories and lighting to textiles, fashion accessories and men's, western, women's and children's apparel. With more than 50 markets each year attended by more than 200,000 retail buyers from all 50 states and 78 countries, Dallas Market Center offers hundreds of events and seminars geared toward helping retailers expand business and increase profits. As a result, more than $8 billion in estimated wholesale transactions are conducted annually within the
Dallas Market Center complex. The Dallas Market Center website is available at www.dallasmarketcenter.com.

About the Accessories Resource Team
The Accessories Resource Team (ART) is the association representing accessory manufacturers, retailers, representatives and other industry individuals and companies interested in promoting the decorative home accessories industry. The association’s goal is to enhance the market position of decorative home accessories. Each year ART sponsors programs such as the ART conference, regional educational seminars and the ARTS Awards. The Accessories Resource Team website is available at http://www.accessoriesresourceteam.org/.

About the ARTS Awards
The ARTS Awards is the premier awards program dedicated to the home decorative accessories industry. Twenty-eight categories exist under the headings Manufacturer, Retailer, Product Designer, Sales Representative, Rising Star, Green Design and Academy of Achievement. Anyone in the industry
can nominate including manufacturers, retailers, sales representatives, designers, suppliers, consultants and other industry officials. The Academy of Achievement honoree is selected by the ARTS Awards committee each year. Companies that have won the ARTS Awards five times are inducted into the Hall of Fame. Hall of Fame members are: BJ’s Home Accents, C.S. Wo & Sons, Distinctive Designs International Inc., Feizy Rugs, Fine Art Lamps, Global Views, Montaage, Natural Decorations Inc., Palecek, Paragon, Robb & Stucky and Schonbek Worldwide Lighting.

IV Pole Pals bring cheer to children in hospitals

2011-06-30T06:00:00.003-05:00

IV Pole Pals Wins The Next Big Thing Contest

By Dallas Market Center
DALLAS – June 25, 2011 – Dallas Market Center, the world’s most omplete wholesale marketplace, today announced The Next Big Thing winner, IV Pole Pals. The Next Big Thing is a national search for the best new products from throughout the country.

The winner was announced during the Dallas Total Home & Gift Market on Saturday, June 25 and awarded a prize package worth more than $12,500 including $2,500 cash, exhibit space at the January 2012 Total Home & Gift Market, a feature profile in one of Dallas Market Center’s award-winning publications, and consultations from leading industry experts regarding branding, public relations, visual merchandising and much more.

“Congratulations to IV Pole Pals and its founder Deric Salser,” said Bill Winsor, president and CEO, Dallas Market Center. “We’re glad to have had the opportunity to introduce IV Pole Pals to the marketplace and look forward to working with them and celebrating their success.”

IV Pole Pals was selected from three contest finalists including The Feeling Bag and The Pillow Bag. The finalists received airfare, hotel and exhibit space to show their products during Market in front of more than 50,000 attendees. To learn more about this year’s finalists go to www.dallasmarketcenter.com/contests/thing.

The winner was selected based on a combination of judges’ feedback as well as popular vote via a social media poll. This year’s judges were: Lori Eddleman, co-founder of Three Designing Women; Rawlins Gilliland, retail consultant; Caroline Kennedy, editor-in-chief of Gifts & Decorative Accessories; and Myra Prescott and Julie Tobolowsky, last year’s The Next Big Thing winners and founders of Clothes & Go.

IV Pole Pals are cheerful decorations that attach onto IV poles adding something special for patients needing their spirits lifted. The “pals” come in many shapes, sizes and themes and snap on and off any standard IV pole. They are made of durable plastic and have a convenient clip that wraps around the pole to secure it in place.

Deric Salser of Sunnyvale, Texas, founder of IV Pole Pals, was inspired by his 8-year-old daughter, Alexandra, who was diagnosed with an incurable disease called LCHAD. To take the fear out of needing an IV, Salser’s wife crafted homemade decorations and attached them to Alexandra’s IV pole. The decorations were the inspiration for the product line that now consists of more than 40

different “pals.” Visit www.ivpolepals.com for more information.

Dallas Market Center will continue to host The Next Big Thing, now entering its fifth contest, duringthe June Total Home & Gift Market. Information regarding next year’s contest will be available on its website in early January 2012. For additional information on The Next Big Thing, visit Dallas Market Center’s website at www.dallasmarketcenter.com or email thenextbigthing@mcmcmail.com. Dallas Market Center holds four Total Home & Gift Markets (January, March, June and September) and five Apparel & Accessories Markets (January, March, June, August and October) each year. Retail buyers are offered new lines and products at Dallas Market Center throughout its permanent showrooms and temporary exhibition space.

About Dallas Market Center
Founded in 1957, Dallas Market Center is the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace. Within its marketplace of more than five million square feet, retailers from around the globe source products ranging from home furnishings, gifts, decorative accessories and lighting to textiles, fashion accessories and men's, western, women's and children's apparel. With more than 50 markets each year attended by more than 200,000 retail buyers from all 50 states and 78 countries, Dallas Market Center offers hundreds of events and seminars geared toward helping retailers expand business and increase profits. As a result, more than $8 billion in estimated wholesale transactions are conducted annually within the Dallas Market Center complex. The Dallas Market Center website is available at www.dallasmarketcenter.com.

A romantic food and cocktail garnish

2011-06-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

Wild Hibiscus Flower Co. will introduce an exclusive, limited-edition food at the Atlanta gift show in July. The product is "bursting with joie de vivre," says Lee Etherington, the company founder. Each 12.3-ounce jar contains 15 hand-picked wild hibiscus flowers that are preserved in simple syrup scented with the essence of two dozen Bulgarian roses, sourced from a valley where highly prized rose oil hasbeen produced for centuries. The syrup can be mixed with a dry, sparkling wine. The flowers are edible.

The company says its flowers in rose syrup and the flowers alone are "trendy, edible food and cocktail garnishes" that have a three-year shelf life. They can be used in food dishes and cocktails and served at weddings, engagement parties, birthdays,holidays and themed events.

Qualifying retailers receive free POS materials—recipe brochures, counter and shelf displays,
plus wobblers.

See the company in Atlanta at Booth 719, Building 2 - West Wing, 2nd Floor

Greeting Card Assn. to meet in Texas

2011-06-28T12:17:00.005-05:00

THE GREETING CARD ASSOCIATION'S 70TH ANNUAL CONVENTION
RUNS SEPT. 14-17 IN HORSESHOE BAY, TX
GCA members and nonmembers are welcome!

By The Greeting Card Association

(June 22, 2011) The 70th Annual Convention of the Greeting Card Association (GCA) will be taking place from Wednesday, September 14, through Saturday, September 17, at the Horseshoe Bay Resort Marriott in Horseshoe Bay, Texas. All members of the industry – both GCA members and nonmembers – are welcome to attend.

Located just 45 minutes northwest of Austin, this luxurious – yet affordably priced – resort lies along the panoramic shores of Lake LBJ in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. It features three championship golf courses, four swimming pools, 16 tennis courts, seven dining facilities, a full-service spa, a marina and more.

Horseshoe Bay Resort is the ideal venue for the outstanding roster of dynamic speakers, informative panel sessions, strategic meetings and fun networking activities planned for this year's convention – themed "Staying Relevant." The theme shapes the content of the upcoming convention, which will address the significant consumer and communication shifts affecting the greeting card, invitation and stationery business, according to Convention Co-Chairs Jason Evans of Birchcraft Studios and Christy Kaprosy of American Greetings.

On the roster at this year's GCA Annual Convention is keynote speaker Jim Welch, president and founder of The Growth Leader, Inc. Welch brings more than 25 years of marketing leadership, having previously worked for Hallmark Cards and Procter & Gamble. As the "The Practical Growth Leader," Welch will provide convention attendees with innovative, cutting-edge growth strategies.

Research firm On Your Mark will lead an interactive discussion with a panel of young women to understand how greeting cards and stationery play a part in their lives. Another session will feature top retailers who will share unique sales category insights about the role of social expressions. Additional speakers and panels, including a presentation by GCA Associate members who are suppliers to the industry, will also offer critical industry knowledge to attendees.

Substantial early discounts for the 70th Annual Convention are being offered for those registering by Friday, August 12. To register, please visit www.greetingcard.org.

Single and double rooms at the Horseshoe Bay Resort Marriott are available for just $150 per night (plus resort fee and taxes) until Friday, August 12. To book a room, please go to www.greetingcard.org. For more information about Horseshoe Bay Resort Marriott, visit www.hsbresort.com.

About the Greeting Card Association
The Greeting Card Association, headquartered in White Plains, NY, is the U.S. trade association of the greeting card industry. Established in 1941, the GCA represents greeting card and stationery publishers, as well as suppliers to the industry. The GCA is managed by George Little Management, LLC, owner and manager of the annual National Stationery Show. For additional information, please visit www.greetingcard.org.

Dallas market welcomes Santa Fe Folk Art Artists

2011-06-24T09:10:00.000-05:00

Santa Fe International Folk Art Market Artists To Exhibit in Dallas

– A Collection of folk art to be shown during FINDS Dallas Temp Show –

By Dallas Market Center

DALLAS – June 20, 2011 – Dallas Market Center, the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace, recently announced that artists from the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market will show at the FINDS Dallas Temp Show being held June 23-26. The Collection will be located in the Trade Mart, 1st floor atrium, near Design FINDS.

“We are honored to have artists from the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market on campus during Market,” said Cindy Morris, COO, Dallas Market Center. “It’s a unique buying opportunity for our retailers and a chance for them to order cause-related products that make a difference in others’ lives.”

More than a dozen artists will travel to Dallas before heading to Santa Fe, New Mexico for the annual International Folk Art Market, the largest international folk art market in the world. The mission of the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market is to foster economic and cultural sustainability for folk artists and folk art worldwide and to create intercultural exchange opportunities that unite the peoples of the world. Each artist is making a difference for their families and communities through the sale of their one-of-a-kind handmade products.

One of the exhibiting artists that will show at Market is Janet Nkubana, from Rwanda. Janet learned to weave from her mother and is now co-founder of Gahaya Links. Her organization was founded after the Rwandan Genocide to help women cope with minimal support. Among the baskets that she will show are the elegantly-shaped, conical “peace” baskets that have earned international acclaim. In 2005, the baskets were featured in O Magazine. Today, the baskets can be found in the displays of Macy’s department stores throughout the United States.

Alba Sepúlveda, another artist, from Chile began hand weaving delicate miniature sculptures and designs out of horsehair at the age of seven, and has developed her craft for more than 50 years. She is today one of the foremost weavers in Chile, with a long list of awards and recognitions on an international scale. Alba recently developed a cooperative called Arte en Crin, made up of 14 artisans from her hometown of Rari. The cooperative was developed with the intention of creating a space for artisans to be able to support themselves through their traditional art, to engage youth in the centuries old tradition, and to preserve this very important cultural heritage.

Also showing during Market is Elhadji Koumama from Niger, who is the ninth child of the famous Nigerien Tuareg silversmith, Mohamed Koumama, and heads a cooperative that specializes in making exquisite fine silver jewelry. The Koumama family works in several small groups of two to 15 men with boys beginning their apprenticeship at age seven to learn the methods their forefathers used centuries ago. Elhadji works with family members and others in the Inadin (blacksmith) subgroup of Tuaregs. Niger is the poorest country on earth so few Tuaregs can afford their jewelry. Tourists who once bought jewelry from the Koumamas no longer come because of the Al Qaeda kidnappings. The Koumamas are now almost entirely dependent on sales of jewelry in the United States to support themselves and their communities.

Macedonio Palomino from Peru is a master weaver and teacher and will also show in the Collection. He founded the company Artesanías WARI-URPI in 2004. Together with his wife Luzmila Huarancca, a highly-talented embroiderer, he provides training and dignified jobs to more than 300 artisans in 12 native communities in rural Ayacuhco, a region in Peru’s central Andes. WARI-URPI is dedicated to preserving its native culture, which differs from that of other pre-Colombian cultures in Peru. Taking advantage of the remarkable skills of its artisans, WARI-URPI has developed a range of handmade products such as pillow covers, table runners, tapestries, handbags, belts, curtains, and other products.

To learn more about the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market Collection artists, visit www.dallasmarketcenter.com/markets/overview/santafe and for information on the upcoming Santa Fe International Folk Art Market visit www.folkartmarket.org.

Art & Design Affair, an all-market party, will be on Friday, June 24 from 6 to 8 p.m. in The Grand Pavilion at the Trade Mart (1st floor). During the event, market attendees will have the opportunity to view the Sante Fe International Folk Art Market Collection, artists’ demonstrations, and the new Design FINDS area while enjoying cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres and listening to the sounds of Phonophreaks Collective.

To keep up-to-date on market information visit Dallas Market Center on Facebook and Twitter.

About Dallas Market Center

Founded in 1957, Dallas Market Center is the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace. Within its marketplace of nearly seven million square feet, retailers from around the globe source products ranging from home furnishings, gifts, decorative accessories and lighting to textiles, fashion accessories and men's, western, women's and children's apparel. With more than 50 markets each year attended by more than 200,000 retail buyers from all 50 states and 78 countries, Dallas Market Center offers hundreds of events and seminars geared toward helping retailers expand business and increase profits. As a result, more than $8 billion in estimated wholesale transactions are conducted annually within the Dallas Market Center complex. The website is available at www.dallasmarketcenter.com.

SOURCE: Dallas Market Center

Windchime honors Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

2011-06-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

Woodstock Chimes, the manufacturer of precision-tuned windchimes, honors the newlyweds, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge,with a Royal Wedding Chime. The chime will be available in July, coinciding with the newlywed’s first trip to the U.S. The chime combines the strength of five large silver anodized tubes with a warm, heart-shaped feather and charmingly designed top piece, featuring five interlocking hearts.
The feather and clapper are both offset by clear glass crystal accents. Woodstock Chimes says "symbolizing the strength of love and power of togetherness, the chime is tuned to the sweet notes of “Westminster Quarters,” made famous by the Big Ben clock tower at London’s Westminster Palace."
The Woodstock Royal Wedding Chime measures 64 inches in length and retails for $100. It can be seen at various shows throughout the 2011 summer market season, including Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles and New York.

New compact high performance two-way monitor

2011-06-21T06:01:00.000-05:00

Bowers & Wilkins’ Prestige Monitor 1 (or PM-1) is a stylish monitor for audiopiles. The PM-1 features a new Carbon Braced Tweeter high frequency driver, which features an aluminum dome that has been strategically stiffened with a ring made of filament-wound Ultra High Modulus Pitch based carbon fiber. This construction technique pushes the breakup frequency of an aluminum dome up to 40kHz. Of course, these wavelengths are well above the limits of human hearing, but as with the 800 Series Diamond tweeters, the design provides a marked reduction in distortion at audible frequencies below 20kHz, and results in what is said to be a sweet-sounding non-Diamond tweeter.

Like the 800 Series Diamond tweeter, the drive unit also uses the same new surround material that gives wider dispersion at higher frequencies. This wider dispersion preserves the harmonic structure of instruments and voices and enables the listener to pinpoint the position of the performer with greater accuracy and stability. The cabinet itself has been called "a work of art."

The PM-1 is available in a Mocha Gloss finish with an optional matching stand. Suggested retail is $2,800 per pair. Stands are $550 per pair. It will be available in late June 2011.

About Bowers & Wilkins
Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) is Britain’s leading exporter of loudspeakers, and is also the number-one imported brand in North America. Since 1966, B&W’s “Quest for Perfection” has resulted in a succession of technical loudspeaker innovations that have satisfied the world’s most demanding listeners. B&W’s rave reviews and universal acceptance as the monitor for classical music recordings have helped B&W become the dominant premium loudspeaker company throughout the world.

Magazine rack combines functionality and sophistication

2011-06-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Since its introduction of eco-friendly home décor products, Oceanstar Design Group Inc. has now launched a new line of functional yet modern looking magazine racks. The contemporary espresso-finishwooden magazine rack fits into the modern home.

Made with bentwood, this magazine rack holds magazines and books, and can complement any living room, bathroom, office, family room or bedroom with its beautiful espresso finish. This magazine rack’s modern and sophisticated design, along with its storage functionality, makes it a very popular item as a home décor product or as a gift.

The magazine rack also has cut-out carry handles on each side for easy handling and transferring between places. It is said to be easy to assemble, with and no tools required.

Oceanstar Design Group is a manufacturer and distributor focusing on eco-friendly home décor and furnishing products, with the vision to help customers live green and provide home improvement and solution.

FINDS Dallas Temp Show Features Hundreds of New Lines

2011-06-18T09:53:00.004-05:00

press release

FINDS Dallas Temp Show Features Hundreds of New Lines

– New product category, guest artists, dozens of special events, and more during June Market –

DALLAS – June 14, 2011 – Dallas Market Center, the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace, today announced that the FINDS Dallas Temp Show being held June 23-26 will feature hundreds of new lines showing during June for the first time. The June show will mark the debut of a brand new category, Handmade & Vintage FINDS. Also, one of the many highlights of the show will be artists from the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market Collection.

“We are amazed by the growth and success of the FINDS Dallas Temp Show market after market,” said Cindy Morris, COO, Dallas Market Center. “With the addition of Handmade & Vintage FINDS, The Santa Fe International Folk Art Market Collection and countless new lines, June is sure to be one of our best shows yet.”

During June, Design FINDS will relocate from the World Trade Center (WTC) 13th floor to the Trade Mart (TM) 1st floor atrium and include new lines such as: Aid to Artisans, Ann Gish, Cardboard Safari, Catstudio, JM Piers, Oxidos and Spaceform London.

Located on the WTC 13th floor, the new product category Handmade & Vintage FINDS will feature independent creators and designers including: Baabaazuzu, Farrah B, Global Handmade Hope, MPressions, Regina Lorraine, Saline River Diamonds, Sweet Talk and Vintage Rose Wraps.

The Santa Fe International Folk Art Market Collection will be located on the TM 1st floor atrium next to Design FINDS and feature more than a dozen artists from the International Folk Art Market in Santa Fe, New Mexico. For more information visit www.folkartmarket.org.

Highlights of new lines that will be shown at the FINDS Dallas Temp Show are:
WTC 6th Floor
Home & Hill Country
Adagio Water Features, Bit of Santa Fe, Darzzi, EZ Designs, Fresco Fabrics, Lampworks, Lulu & Co., Moon Rein by Christi Proctor, Shine Handmade, Tiles Across Texas and White x White

WTC 12th Floor
Christmas & Floral
Crafty Innovations, Cross Tread Industries, Heeney Company, Holispheres and Karen Didion
Designs

Collegiate & Souvenir
All Star Dogs, Ariki New Zealand, Champion Treasures, Prints Charming, Prizes!, Randy Smith Limited, Smith-Southwestern, Sticker Universe and Team Sports America

Garden & Outdoor
A’Cero, Amedeo, Fullei and Star Imports

Gift
Bennett by Design, Clay Chick Ceramics, Dog Is Good, EM Designs, Epic Products, Inspired Generations, Rickshaw Trading and Scent Sationals

Kids
Baby Legs, Bunnies by the Bay, Caden Lane, Elly La Rue, Moby Wrap, Mogo, My Buddy, Pick Your Pocket, Pop-In-Kins and SOZO

Paper & Party
Fair Earth Gifts & Paper, Lily For Hangables, Orange Circle Studio, Parc Packaging, Pumpernickel Press and Wexel Art

WTC 13th Floor
Bath & Body
Bec and Chelle, BiNu Soap, Berjang USA, Dead Sea Spa Care, Do Not Disturb, Feeling Smitten, Instantly Ageless, Lovely Dorothy and Mojo Cosmetics

Fashion
Accessories by M, Apron Flings, Felicia, Jab-Wear, Peacock International, Pin & Tube, Primrose Accessory, Tangerine, Troo and Wenzhou Lookee Optical

Red Haute
Barbosa Collection, Ciccia Bella, Elements Jill Schwartz, Good Works Make a Difference, Jillery, Judy P Apparel, Lori Bonn, Marigot, Novo and Scandolous

Market Hall
Cash & Carry (Open through June 27)
Ace International, Hip Together, Joli Jewelry, Le Muse, Lisa Toland, My Mothers Buttons, Retro-E, Silver Spoon Jewelry, Unforgettable and Water Gems

Furniture
Casa Bonita and Grandeur Couture

A complete list of all special events and seminars is available on the Dallas Market Center website. Also, to keep up-to-date on market information visit Dallas Market Center on Facebook and Twitter. Make plans now to attend the next Dallas Total Home & Gift Market, September 10-12.

Attendees may contact the Dallas Market Center’s in-house travel agency, Market Travel®, for substantial travel and hotel discounts by calling 1-800-DAL-MKTS.

About Dallas Market Center Founded in 1957, Dallas Market Center is the world’s most complete wholesale marketplace. Within its marketplace of more than five million square feet, retailers from around the globe source products ranging from home furnishings, gifts, decorative accessories and lighting to textiles, fashion accessories and men's, western, women's and children's apparel. With more than 50 markets each year attended by more than 200,000 retail buyers from all 50 states and 78 countries, Dallas Market Center offers hundreds of events and seminars geared toward
helping retailers expand business and increase profits. As a result, more than $8 billion in estimated wholesale transactions are conducted annually within the Dallas Market Center complex. The Dallas Market Center website is available at www.dallasmarketcenter.com.

SOURCE: Dallas Market Center

Albums, photo frames for baby's first years

2011-06-10T06:00:00.005-05:00

Story of Me

Prinz's Little Angels selection of frames and coordinating albums features new additions to the 2011 baby collection. There are 11 new frame series and two album collections, all featuring a variety of formats, styles and price points. Commemorating baby’s first year is Once Upon a Time, a collage frame featuring word art matting with openings for 12 photos, one for each month, and a larger 5x7 opening to showcase baby’s one-year photo.

Also new in the Little Angels line is Just Arrived, a silverplated frame with shiny silver baby buggy and teddy bear accents. At the center of the frame is an area to record baby’s name, weight, length and birthdate. The frame holds a 4x6 photo.

Prinz’s best-selling baby frame, New Addition, suitable for displaying a sonogram photo, has prompted the company to introduce a new frame series, Counting the Days, featuring a 5x4 opening for sonogram or other photo. Featuring mirror star cutouts, the wood frame includes a heartwarming expression beneath the photo opening. Two styles are available – "We wished upon a star and here you are" and "Love at first sight."

Baby Talk

Counting the Days

Just Arrived

Little Miracle

Once Upon A Time

Give Dad an upside-down beer glass gift on Father's Day

2011-06-09T06:00:00.001-05:00

This upside-down beer glass novelty from Final Touch is made of hand-blown borosilicate glass. The insulated, double-wall design prevents condensation forming on the glass and marking the bar, table or linens. The design is said to keep beer colder than a typical pint glass (though the capacity is 13.5 ounces or 400 ml). It is sold in a gift box (singly or in a pair).

Colorful toaster matches any kitchen decor

2011-06-08T07:18:00.000-05:00

Dualit noticed its toaster at the Prime Minister's residence at 10 Downing Street while First Lady Michelle Obama had tea with Mrs. Cameron.

The NewGen toaster from Dualit has a defrost setting for frozen bread and the option to toast buns and bagels. The selector control allows the user to heat either one or both slots. Designed for commercial use, the toaster is hand assembled in England and built to last, with an insulated stainless-steel body, variable controls and automatic turnoff. It is available in several colors, including those shown below.

For Father's Day, give an electric grill

2011-06-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

Hammacher Schlemmer calls its new grill "The Best Electric Grill." In tests, the grill reached an average temperature of 617.2 degrees F, 259.6 degrees higher than a competing model. The grill’s stainless steel grates have integrated electric heating elements that produce powerful, direct heat. Coils below the grates generate even, radiant heat to ensure thorough cooking.

The Best model has 216 square inches of cooking surface that holds up to six 8-ounce filet mignons. It scored the highest for features because it was the only unit with a hot dog roller that rotates automatically, it has a removable searing plate that accommodates vegetables or eggs, and it has two 13-inch by 11¾-inch prep shelves.

Furniture, lighting, decorative accents from Maitland-Smith

2011-06-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

Maitland-Smith introduced furniture, lighting and decorative accessories at the spring furniture market in High Point.

The amber-finished brass and tiger penshell inlaid lamp with cream silk shade is part of Mack’s Lounge, a new lifestyle Group inspired by the exclusive tuxedo clubs in Palm Springs frequented by the Hollywood Rat Pack. It measures 17 inches wide by 12 inches deep by 31 inches tall.

Faux birch mahogany box on pair of Pompeian patina brass squirrels.

Parisian walnut-finished king bed with raffia inlay and vintage leather headboard.

The Safari brown-finished chest of drawers with luggage motif and leather accents is part of the Cape Colony Lifestyle Group, inspired by an African holiday.