Gift Shop Plus Fall 2023
From the Editor: Winding Down By Carly McFadden

This time of year is hands down my most treasured. From amber leaves to chilled air to the merriment of another holiday season, these final months
resonate deeply with me.

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They present a quiet, fresh change that I find myself yearning for after summer. For retailers, though, the fourth quarter represents their busiest time of year. Holiday shopping is in full swing, many owners extend shop hours, and time can easily feel rushed. Behind every successful Q4 are months of planning, buying, merchandising and training.

Therefore, it is as important as ever to find time to slow down — a theme ever so present in the fall 2023 edition of Gift Shop® Plus. Take our Trend Report, for example, inspired by cozying up with at-home comfort items — think throw blankets, candles and stress-relief items.

Additionally, carving out time to spend with kids during these months is just as crucial for you as it is for them. Toys, games and puzzles that allow playtime to double as family time are on the rise, which we explore in an exclusive fall feature. Conversely, self-care is as important as ever, and we take a look at the latest trends promoting rest and relaxation in our bath and body feature.

Perhaps the greatest reminder to slow down in this issue comes via our Meet the Maker, Kate Walsh-Dodok. Her candle and home fragrance company, Peripeti Home, is founded on the importance of slowing down. But while Walsh-Dodok was caught up in the busyness of entrepreneurship, she found herself in a situation where slowing down was not just encouraged but critical. This was ultimately a catalyst for the business, revealing an opportunity to accelerate growth while adding to Peripeti’s purpose and role in the community.

The year is winding down just as holiday shopping is gearing up. But take time to find moments of peace and gratitude as we close the chapter on yet another year.

My own gratitude points to you, readers. I cannot thank you enough for your time, interest and support as we wrap up our last main issue of 2023.

Until next time,

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