Navigating Atlanta Market

Exploring market trends, top priorities and essential tips for attendees

(Sponsored) Howard Aspinwall, owner of Mellow Monkey Gifts & Décor in Stratford, Connecticut, offers his insight into the world of retail and market trends. From his current bestseller to his top priorities for July Market, Aspinwall discusses the importance of innovation and adaptability in retail. Sharing his preferred stops at Atlanta Market, plus offering essential tips for first-time attendees, Aspinwall highlights the dynamic market.

Current Bestseller: That’s a difficult question to answer because of our large inventory, but currently, our genuine Starfish Trees (sourced from Stetson’s Seashells) because they’re not only a hit during the holidays, but customers want to display them year-round.

Top Priority for July Market: We’ll be looking for emerging trends and suppliers that are bringing new ideas and products to the market. We also seek out makers who are willing to work collaboratively with us to bring new products to the marketplace that have never been made before. This strategy has been a success story for the store.

First Stop at Market: I’m almost always booked solid with vendor appointments starting on the first day of Market, but I do like to hit the Temporaries early on to see what’s new.

Favorite Temporary Floor: One of our very favorite temporary vendors, Second Chance Art, just moved to Building 2, Floor 2 with the Home category, so that’s our new favorite!

Favorite Showroom: It’s a tie between Creative Co-Op and Two’s Company. Creative Co-Op for stylish, decorative home decor and Two’s Company for gifts that consistently sell through.

Most Inspiring Displays: I’m always inspired by the displays by the main door of Demdaco. The staging is always lovely to look at and top-notch.

Go-to Meal on Campus: Definitely Chicken Salad Chick! Always tasty, fresh and a must-visit at least once, if not twice!

Favorite Atlanta Restaurant: When I come down south from Connecticut, I need to indulge in authentic Southern food, and Mary Mac’s Tea Room never disappoints.

Favorite Place to Stay: When I’m bringing my team down, I find it more cost-effective and comfortable to rent an Airbnb. But when it comes to staying at a hotel, I consider myself lucky if I can stay at the Glenn Hotel. It’s fun and trendy, a very short walk to Market and it has a MUST-SEE rooftop bar.

Top Tip for First-Time Market Attendees: Arrange to get a “virtual card number” from your credit card company, which is a secondary number to your card account. This way if your card is compromised, you won’t have to cancel the main card, which is always a massive headache. Also, as much as you want to look good at Market, wear comfortable shoes. Being on your feet all day at the pace of shopping makes for sore feet! As tempting as they might seem, avoid vendors’ complimentary drinks. Instead, drink lots of water because it’s easy to get dehydrated. Then, treat yourself to a nice cocktail after your solid day of shopping – a well-deserved reward!

For more information, visit atlantamarket.com