June 2015
It is thrilling to share the launch of our brand new website with you. This site has been in the works for months, so it feels terrific to invite you to explore! Our hopes are that our site will encourage you to engage in our wonderfully supportive retail community. Of course, there are practical features that just make sense – online renewals will make each year a breeze, digital issues of our publications provide you with the latest news at your fingertips…and then there is the ability to network with your peers for input that counts!
We are excited (and hope you will be to!) about our new blog. This is a chance for you to get to know us better, as we share our passion for retail with features exploring our favorite trends, marketing and promotional ideas, savings tips, events, product releases and more! It is our honor to connect with you – our Retail Members and Vendor Partners.
Our door is always open – we hope you will visit often.
Our first post is a look at creative display ideas. We confess that Pinterest is one of our favorite past times…it is such fun discovering ideas that can be easily translated to your gift shop, but have such a WOW factor!
Here’s a few we are loving right now. Looking for more – head over to our Pinterest page.
A – Attractive window displays entice potential customers to wander into your shop. The key is an attention-grabbing look that is constantly evolving. Displays should be clean and well-lit with professional signage. Don’t forget to update displays regularly. Holiday themes, color trends, products themes…are great foundations for building your display. This fresh approach breathes energy into your space all year long.
B – Hang a roll of brown paper that you pull out and write on. This is an idea that offers endless opportunity for your shop! Introduce new merchandise, vendors and collections. Does the gift shop revenue support your facility? Yes, let your customers know. Running a special promotion? Promote it here! What about the upcoming healthcare event, Volunteer Week, Nurses’ or Doctor Day, Write it down!
C – Another trendy option? Highlight events and merchandise to your customer base with chalkboards. Wall and counter signs can be used throughout the shop. This popular look is popping up everywhere! If you are really bold, use chalkboard paint on a wall and get creative. Maybe you have an artistic friend that will lend their talents and help you integrate cool artwork onto your chalkboard.
D – Make an intriguing display by combining odds and ends with antiques and modern pieces in an eclectic mix of finishes. Wood and metals in a range of tones form a striking arrangement that works beautifully year round.
E – In store displays are an opportunity to create excitement with a visual spectacle in your store. Merchandise trends, vintage looks, fashion accessory styling; there are endless options to inspire a creative display. The next time you are at a trade show, shopping for a gift, browsing through a magazine or trade publications, or scouring Pinterest, keep an Inspiration Notebook, add photos, notes, ideas. You never know when a light bulb moment will hit and a new display takes shape!
