Display Inspirations

Bring in Holiday Greens

1. This Hollywood Gems tree is from Jim Marvin's Atlanta showroom. Muted pearls, golds and silver add elegance to the display. Notice how the wall next to the tree is used to display the ornaments... more »

When Opportunity Knocks

It was a really wet spring here in New England. One particularly miserable, wet day had caught me unprepared. I stopped by a local retailer and was relieved to find that she had stocked some... more »

The Long Run

I have always admired the tenacity and passion of small retailers. Take Los Angeles retailer Desiree Galvez for example. Faced with a slowing national economy and the local fallout after a debilitating writers' strike, she... more »

Back Room Basics

Want to bring some order to your store's back room? Here's a layout that can help. A: Employee bulletin board B: Gift wrap desk C: Flexible tiered storage D: Office E: Kitchen (refrigerator, coffee maker, etc. F: Merchandise processing area G: Merchandise... more »

Display Inspirations

Consumers are going back to nature. As these displays demonstrate, birds are very trendy thematic elements right now. They appeal to our sense of freedom and are among nature's most appealing ambassadors. Materials and motifs... more »

The Power of Networking

Where would we be without our support systems? I know as a publishing professional, I sometimes rely on business networks to bounce off ideas or to trade advice. One of GIFT SHOP's primary missions has... more »

Sensational Appeal

Setting out diffusers, candles and even bath and body products appeals to customers' sense of smell. Invite customers to taste your gourmet goods and watch them fly off the shelves. It's one of the first... more »

A Fresh Start

I have always loved makeovers—the idea of rejuvenation, of a clean start, is endlessly appealing to me. Since GIFT SHOP is about fresh new ideas and perspectives the idea of a makeover contest seemed like... more »

Color Sells

Subtle touches speak volumes! Notice the strategically placed sand-colored towel set at the top. It acts as a great complement to the white and sand mixes in the entire row. Boots that match the raincoats... more »

Holiday Holly Jolly

A little whimsy, like good ol' Santa coming down the chimney, is a fun way of getting your customers in the holiday mood. The choice of turquoise blue on the Christmas tree nearby spices up... more »