In the gift world, January means gift show season. Various markets around the country hold shows where retailers come and view (and hopefully purchase!) products from manufacturers of all things gift: baby products, home and garden decor, books, stationery, etc.
Past years have found these shows "down," due to our depressed economy. Things have been tough. This January, however, found both buyers and sellers in a more upbeat mood — and ordering was up for our books and products as well as for others we spoke with. Hooray 2010.
For those of you wondering what these shows look like -- here's a few photos. As a manufacturer, I can either show my wares as part of a "permanent showroom" or in a "temporary booth." For the past few years, we have participated in a temporary booth.
This was our space in Atlanta during the Winter Show. That's Colleen, our everything girl!
You can underestimate these shows as a great excuse to meet up with industry friends, too. Was happy to have dinner with (from left to right) Linda McDonald, a wonderfully warm licensing agent and Teresa Kogut, a talented artist who has been creating her beautiful art for many years!
Two weeks after Atlanta, the Chicago show started up. There, our company also participated in the temporary booths, but this time, as part of the LM Marketing Group, owned by Lynn Mierendorf.
It was great fun for me to chat with the retailers who have bought our books for years ... and I spent part of Saturday, signing and giving away copies of some of my newest titles: Big Brother, Big Sister, and Beautiful Brown Eyes. Was there a quick 24 hours, returning home just in time to see the Minnesota Vikings end their season one game too soon...
Hey Marianne! Love this post and the photo of You, Linda and me. It was great having dinner with you and catching up. I wish you a prosperous and healthyl 2010......your work is great!
Posted by: Teresa Kogut | January 26, 2010 at 12:42 PM