Fall 2007

2 days + $500 = Whole new store! By Poornima Apte

Blue Hydrangea, a chic and cozy gift store located in Wickford, RI, typifies many of the gift shops we reach. It has a loyal local customer base, gets a lot of tourist traffic and has a good mix of merchandise in all the basic gift categories. When Donna Trottier, its proprietor, learned she had won GIFT SHOP’s Ultimate Makeover Contest, she was thrilled. “My customers have been asking why I am going ahead with this, I am excited—change is always good,” Trottier said.

The makeover was executed by Donna Kent, a visual merchandiser who has years of experience in the business, including a few at Laura Ashley stores.

GIFT SHOP thanks OneCoast for sponsoring the contest. Jeremy Hirsch, vice president of marketing for the company, said: “OneCoast strives to help its retailers grow their sales. One of the key ways for retailers to boost sales is through terrific merchandising. We love how The GIFT SHOP Magazine’s Makeover Contest pairs a design expert with a retailer who can benefit from the improvements.”

Please visit the Ultimate GIFT SHOP Makeover website for full details, including before and after pictures, copy and videos.

Poornima Apte

Poornima Apte is an award-winning experienced freelance writer and editor. Learn more at wordcumulus.com.