News

Mother’s Day spending expected to fall this year, but retailers say Southeast Texas sales are strong

Cambie Jenkins and Gina Savoie, two designers at Forever Yours Florist in Beaumont, expect to spend the next week knee-deep in twigs and flower petals. The two will be working extra hours to fill the... more »

Expanding bow business keeps moms connected

It's more than friendship that ties Julie Nitchie and Gretchen Stevenson together. Their innovative hair-bow business keeps them connected, too.The moms came up with the idea for a business, The Pink Hippo Hair Bows, when... more »

Gaylord’s Broadway gift shop caters to broad audience

Thoughts about shopping on lower Broadway can conjure up images of Hank Williams coffee mugs, Elvis ashtrays and more than a few hot-pink cowboy boots.But with the mid-April opening of Opry Originals: The Shop on... more »

Think local first to bail out the economy

When you're trying to make ends meet on a limited budget, you might not consider what kind of impact your spending power has.However, economists say the U.S. economic turnaround is dependent on consumer dollars. They... more »

Artists who think its good to cut corners

As much of an ancient practice as stone cutting or paper making, woodworking is a craft that produces both artistic and useable pieces.While carpentry or architecture are part of the trade, many wood worker also... more »

Women learn firsthand the ins and outs of importing

From Spanish olive oil to French jewelry to exotic Argentine handbags to antique chandeliers, the products they import are as different as the countries from which they originate. But what Susan Bullock and Laura Austin,... more »

Sustainability and Artistry Featured in NYIGF’s Handmade

White Plains, NY — Eco-friendly materials and fine craftsmanship will be showcased by newcomers to Handmade® at the summer 2009 New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®). Other highlights of the juried craft division include an increased... more »

Granville business celebrates anniversary with mothers tribute

Granville — Linda Smette, owner of Cozy Cottage in Granville, is wrapping an anniversary, birthday and Mother's Day celebration into one weekend.Five years ago, Smette opened her antique shop as a tribute to her deceased... more »

CatArt Cards Introduces Purrfect Occasions Notes

CatArt Cards has extended its line of artist-illustrated cards with Purrfect Occasions Notes. The smaller sized cards are designed for all those occasions when a special note says it all: Happy Birthday, Thinking of You,... more »

VHC Launches New Website, Adds Advertising for VHC Retailers

Our new website is now up, featuring many exciting enhancements and additions. We encourage you to click around and become familiar with the new look and expanded options. Our goal is to provide you with... more »