New contest from Midwest-CBK, Colonial Candles

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

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

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'

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.