Archives: News
‘Cash Mobs’ Boost for Local Economy
Edmonton, AB – If you don’t have anything planned yet for Saturday, you should consider taking part in a local cash mob.
Cash mobs spin off the idea of flash mobs, and encourage people to put money into local businesses by gathering together and “mobbing” a store.
I took part in a cash mob in April where the small used bookstore chosen for the mob raked in more than $1,000 in just one hour. Fantastic, right?
noa Gift and Jewelry Shop Opening New Location on Charles Street
Boston, MA – A shop selling locally made jewelry, handcrafts, and gifts is preparing to open on Beacon Hill’s Charles Street.
noa, an independent shop with locations in Groton and West Concord, is set to bring their fares to 88 Charles St. in early September.
“We’re all about shopping local, buying locally made items, sustainability, and really trying to recreate Main Street,” the shop’s owner Barbara Scofidio told the Beacon Hill Civic Association’s Board of Directors at its monthly meeting Monday.
Pleasant Surprises Await at Alpine Chocolat Haus
Gaylord, MI – Visitors to downtown Gaylord’s Alpine Chocolat Haus, 208 W. Main St., will be pleasantly surprised, thanks to what owner Bruce Brown referred to as a retail face-lift.
The confectionery shop, open in Gaylord since 1985, embraced changed on multiple levels, including décor, product line and overall philosophy.
Every aspect of the interior was touched in some way, according to Brown.
Parent Testers Rate JumpSport Kids Trampoline as Exceptional
Anyone who has answered a written survey knows the format, “on a scale of 1 to 5 where 5 is exceptional…” Chances are most people answer each question somewhere in the middle, with a 3 or maybe a 4 if the product was good. Companies issuing the survey hope for results resembling a bell curve. When Parent Tested Parent Approved (PTPA) handed back the results of their questionnaire to JumpSport for their iBounce Kids Trampoline, there were many bells, followed by whistles!
Parent Testers Rate JumpSport Kids Trampoline as Exceptional
Anyone who has answered a written survey knows the format, “on a scale of 1 to 5 where 5 is exceptional…” Chances are most people answer each question somewhere in the middle, with a 3 or maybe a 4 if the product was good. Companies issuing the survey hope for results resembling a bell curve. When Parent Tested Parent Approved (PTPA) handed back the results of their questionnaire to JumpSport for their iBounce Kids Trampoline, there were many bells, followed by whistles!
The Chicago Market Introduces Culturally Rich South African Pavilion at Beckman’s Handcrafted Show
The collaborative efforts between the Department of Trade and Industry South Africa, the South African Consulate General in Chicago and The Chicago Market have resulted in the creation of a special South African pavilion in the Beckman’s Handcrafted area of the show.
The Beckman’s Handcrafted Show showcases the best in original work to discerning specialty retailers looking to differentiate themselves from their competition.
C & F Enterprises Licenses “Surf Rider” from Artist Heidi Dobrott
C & F Enterprises introduces a Heidi Dobrott collection to debut at summer markets.
The Surf Rider quilt is a patchwork of “SoCal” vignettes — starfish, palm trees and long boards conjure images of early morning wave riding. When asked about the idea for this design, Heidi said, “I am so inspired by the amazing coastal environment that I have called home all my life. The colors… the sounds… sand… the scent of ocean air.
Wholesale Dog Jewelry a division of Doggy Toyland LLC Changes Name to Dazzling Paws Jewelry LLC
Wholesaledogjewelry.com announced today that it is changing its name to Dazzling Paws Jewelry LLC, effective July 9th, 2012. The new name more accurately represents the business evolution, expertise and identity in the marketplace.
The announcement of the name change is made by Myra Westphal, President of the company. “This marks a significant milestone for our company. We experienced tremendous growth and popularity since the introduction of our jewelry line in 2004,” explained Myra. “It became difficult to keep up with consumer demand for our jewelry designs.
Spring 2012 Judges Adore QuickSmart: Parents’ Choice Silver to Scramble Bug & Dr. Toy’s Vacation Prize to 3-in-1 Play Yard
Got baby? Get QuickSmart. That was the consensus of toy industry judges as two more of QuickSmart’s stylish products get parents and kids up and away in style and ease. Thanks to the revolutionary and effortless folding system, the Easy Fold 3-in-1 Play Yard got Dr. Toy’s nod for Best Vacation Children’s Product for 2012. Likewise, the QuickSmart Scramble Bug enchanted judges at Parents’ Choice Foundation and earned their prestigious Silver award.
In her review, Dr.
C & F Enterprises and Gallerie II Salute Americana
C & F Enterprises and its subsidiary, Gallerie II are launching Americana home décor collections in bedding and tabletop.
Sag Harbor, C & F’s bedding collection, presents stonewashed hues of red, white and blue. Nostalgic patchwork stars and folksy calico are paired with Union Jacks and royal crowns for a twist on classic American motifs. Senior Designer at C & F, Kari Phillips said, “The Royal Wedding kicked it off last year.
Burnes Merges with Nielsen Bainbridge
Burnes (formerly known as Burnes of Boston), well-known designer and marketer of photo frames and home décor, has joined Nielsen Bainbridge, one of the world’s leading producers of professional picture framing products.
New Packaging Released for Limited Edition Fall Gourmet Coffees
Door County Coffee and Tea Co. is excited to release a NEW redesigned package for the limited edition Fall Line of Gourmet Coffees with 2012 season. With a more contemporary look that showcases the rich colors of Fall, the new package is anticipated to increase sales, particularly for gift store customers, with its’ eye-catching allure.
The new look comes in the 11th year that Door County Coffee and Tea Co. has been a leading roaster of Fall coffees showcasing the unique flavors of the Fall season.
Grandmother’s Buttons Announces 2012-2013 Jewelry Launch
Grandmother’s Buttons is proud to announce the launch of its 2012-2013 jewelry line at the Atlanta Gift Market, July 13-17 and the New York International Gift Fair, August 18-21.
This year’s jewelry is inspired by color and artistry, emphasizing the beauty in the vintage and antique buttons. Throughout the catalog you will find brushes, paints, and sketches from Susan Davis’ mother setting the stage for the jewelry.
Alexa’s Angels Spreads Wings with New Product Launches
Alexa’s Angels, a leading gift jewelry manufacturer recognized for its innovative and stylish designs that inspire, proudly unveils Maggies Mix-n-Match Magnetic Jewelry. The latest development from their extensive line of inspired designs, Maggies are sets of three bejeweled jewelry segments that connect in a variety of combinations by magnetic connector-beads. Each Maggies Jewelry Set is composed of one 8″ bracelet-length segment and two 18″ necklace-length segments. The pieces may be worn individually, all together as one long necklace, or in any combination imaginable!
Business Q&A: Lyn Gift Shop
Lynbrook, NY – Lyn Gift Shop has been a staple in Lynbrook since the 1930s. The Atlantic Avenue store’s unique inventory makes it the perfect stop for last minute gifting needs. Bill Gaylor has owned the Hallmark Gold Crown store since 1987. As President of the Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce, Gaylor is a strong presence within the village’s business community. Here, he explains what makes his shop stand apart.
What year were you founded?
I’m not sure.
Lavishly Posh Boutique & Parties Opens in Grovetown
Grovetown, GA – A gift boutique offering opportunities for local artists, designers and military spouses has opened in Grovetown.
Owner Michelle Suyeyoshi opened Lavishly Posh Boutique & Parties this month on Second Avenue across from Grovetown City Hall.
Suyeyoshi moved to Augusta in January when her husband was assigned to Fort Gordon. She started her business one year ago in Arizona and has a background in television directing, public relations, interior design and event planning.
Bentley’s Boutique Bids Farewell to 600 Block
St. Petersburg, FL – “It’s going to be the premier gift shop on the beaches,” said Tiernan-Jasuwan of the new and improved Bentley’s Boutique. Come August, the store will be closing its original location on the 600 Block in downtown St. Petersburg and moving to a space on St. Pete Beach.
Not only will the location change, but so will the inventory. As of now, Bentley’s is known as a high end consignment shop. After the move, however, it will be retail only.
A new mom herself, Tiernan-Jasuwan has discovered a love for baby products.