Features

Trend Report: Express Yourself

Feature image: Rachel Camfield, 2021. Defining oneself is a process of self-discovery. Self expression can take many forms — from clothing, jewelry, artwork, home décor, to everyday items that remind us to stay authentic to... more »

Special Delivery

Everyone enjoys celebrating the arrival of a baby. Long before the bundle of joy is due, family and friends have usually already started purchasing clothes, toys and other specialty gifts. After the darkness and isolation... more »

Delightful Debuts

Shop owners and merchandisers have likely bid adieu to to their holiday décor and displays as the Gift Shop® Plus Winter 2023 issue went to print, but we’re ringing in the new year with merriment... more »

A Store for Everyone

When Erin Walker first met Keewa Nurullah, owner of Kido boutique in Chicago, Walker’s daughter Sadie was pretty little, and they were new to her cerebral palsy diagnosis. “Keewa asked us right away how she... more »

A Chic Affair

As seen in Celebrations & Occasions 2022. Pink Flamingo Party Co. began as just a hobby in Ashley Sodipo’s apartment. The shop offers stationery and gifts in addition to party supplies.... more »

Celebrate Diversity

As seen in Celebrations & Occasions 2022. A few years ago, Andrea Harris was planning her daughter’s first birthday party and noticed a lack of party decorations that were culturally relevant. That lack of stylish,... more »

Meet the Maker: Unemployed Philosophers Guild

The Unemployed Philosophers Guild (UPG) is a gift company known for its intellectual, yet humorous, gifts. Thirty-three years ago, UPG was founded by brothers, Stephan and David Shaw after college graduation when they were disappointed... more »

Retail Chat: Branding in Motion

Ever feel like the only store on earth that hasn’t made a social media video? You’re not alone. In fact, 1 in 4 retailers report being initially “intimidated” to enter the video space – including... more »