Lori's completed file on Feb. 3, 2014
Ideas To Help Power Your Gift Shop -  May 22, 2014


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On Our Radar 
 
* Remodeling. 53% of U.S. homeowners will remodel in the next one to two years, with an eye on increasing the value of their home. Where is that money going? Mostly kitchens. 
 
* Emoticon Pendants. They're showing up in the high-end jewelry market -- to the tune of $790! I think the gift industry can do better than that, don't you?
 
* Pinspiration. I'm always on the hunt for unique Pinterest boards, and I think Michael Wurm of Inspired by Charm has some of the best. Even his board names are creative: I Wear. I Celebrate. I Cook.
What's Hot? Giftbeat's exclusive Online Community is chatting about how to handle returns, especially fashion items.
 
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Tip: A Page-Turning Display

A Springdale, Utah retailer uses old books to showcase jewelry. He says customers love the display, and often take pictures of it. Simply fold back the pages of a book to create pockets for bracelets (or rings). Make sure you choose books that lie flat when opened. Want more display ideas? Follow my Display Creativity Pinterest board.
Pick: DEI's Farm to Table Collection

Look at these fresh new additions to DEI's Farm to Table home entertaining and accessory collection, featuring colorful vegetable artwork and functional kitchen items. The gift set includes an oven mitt, measuring spoons and cutting board (sugg. retail: $39.99), while vegetable icon aprons are packaged in mini baskets (sugg. retail: $16.99).
Trend Alert: Women's Eyes 

This past Sunday I had the pleasure of attending Leatrice Eiseman's trend seminar at the National Stationery Show. The color expert and trend forecaster says eyes are on her radar. Feminized versions are showing up in design, even human eyes on a butterfly (another popular motif). Will lips be next? You can follow Leatrice's observations at her blog.
Feeling Inspired
"The finest gift you can give anyone is encouragement."                              -- Sidney Madwed
Thanks for joining me. See you next time!

 
Joyce Washnik, Editor
Giftbeat

P.S. Get even more product ideas and find out what's trending in gifts. Check out my Editor's Picks pins on Pinterest!