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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Sunday special: A new book by Pamela Danziger

"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)

Events and specials from Atlanta gift show exhibitors

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.

Gift show briefs

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

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

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

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

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.