Top 10 feature articles of 2023

These 10 feature articles were the most read in 2023.

1. Gift Shop Plus reveals its 2024 Gift + Stationery Spotlight Awards winners

The Gift + Stationery Spotlight Awards honor an accomplished group of industry leaders. Gift Shop® Plus introduces the dozen honorees for 2024.

2. Expect the unexpected: Previewing 2023 Halloween, fall décor trends

Demand was up for products in nontraditional color palettes that encourage self-expression, and sustainability continued to trend.

3. Islander Energy: Fort Myers Beach shop remains a beacon of light after disaster

On Sept. 28, 2022, everything changed for Anita Cereceda, owner of three specialty retail shops in Fort Myers Beach, Florida.

4. Holiday 2023 Preview

Ivystone broke down the holiday 2023 outlook into four categories: All is Calm; Merriment to the Max; Classic Carols; and Christmas Cheer.

5. At its ‘core’: 5 trending fashion aesthetics

We present five popular fashion cores — Coastal Cowgirl, Cottagecore, Barbiecore, Mermaidcore and Utility — and share the latest pieces from the industry’s talented wholesalers and designers.

6. Selling Christmas: 20 tips to drive Q4 sales

The holiday season is retailers’ busiest time of year. From pre-planning to creating promotions and more, we share 20 ways to increase sales in the fourth quarter.

7. Trend Report: Express Yourself

Self expression can take many forms — from clothing, jewelry, artwork, home décor, to everyday items that remind us to stay authentic to our true selves. Life is a journey, and consumers want to surround themselves with the things that speak to them.

8. Going mobile: Considerations for incorporating a food truck at your retail event

Two garden retailers find success with food trucks during events.

9. Editor’s picks: Atlanta Market laden with new, shopworthy finds

Gift Shop® Plus editors attended the summer 2023 edition of Atlanta Market, perusing the show floor for the latest trends and product debuts. Managing editor Carly McFadden shares just a few of her favorite finds.

10. Stationery lookbook: What’s trending in cards, journals and desk supplies

In a world where digital communication dominates, people still appreciate the warmth and personalization that comes with receiving a handwritten note or a physical card.