Jan 18, 2022
Gift Shop Plus recaps favorites from Atlanta Market

Atlanta Market was buzzing with optimism and urgency. Exhibitors and buyers were glad to be there and wanted to make the most of their time together. Order writing seemed to be fast and furious as no-one wants to get left out in the cold when customer demand is on the rise.

Julie McCallum, editorial director for Gift Shop® Plus and Stationery Trends, and Sarah Schwartz, editor-in-chief of Stationery Trends were in attendance to spot emerging trends and visit with industry colleagues at the show. Here is a wrap-up of some of the trends and products that caught their attention.

Home Décor

Color ways are earthy and muted but the indigos and blues are still going strong with organic pops of green added in. Texture is everywhere with wood, wovens, and wicker — all grounded with matte black metals and black stained woods. Ceramics and stoneware, both glazed and unglazed, along with terra cotta, are pure form AND function.

Transpac

DEMDACO

Mud Pie

Games, Puzzles and Crafts

Craft kits, puzzles and games continue to delight consumers even after lock-downs. Puzzles have become works of art and outdoor versions of popular games take fun to a new level.

Artisan by LANG through C.R. Gibson Signature

Designworks Ink

DEMDACO

Inklings Paperie

Kailo Chic through C.R. Gibson Signature

Luxe Dominoes

NIQUEA.D

Jewelry & Accessories

Jewelry with natural cut gems and predominantly gold and silver is making a statement with delicate layers and long links. For accessories, tote bags and crossbodies, along with wristlets can be found everywhere in a variety of materials. Silicone totes are having a moment as the easy-to-clean, waterproof bags can literally go anywhere. Scarves as a canvas for emerging artists are a beautiful way to offer wearable art and cozy wraps and lounge wear are dominating the apparel selections.

Keva Style and Created By Artist Series

BlueQ

Lotus Jewelry through Road Runners

Packed Party

The Well-dressed Desk

Working from home has never been so stylish when the desk can be outfitted with fashionable accoutrements.

C.R. Gibson Signature

Fringe

Kailo Chic through C.R. Gibson Signature

Primitives by Kathy

Whiskey River Soap Co.

Kitchen

The kitchen ranges are all about functional designs and colors, with easy-care melamine making a statement. Mugs remain a staple but new shapes and clever statements keep them fresh. The charcuterie board trend born out of quarantine is expanding to include individual platters – perfect for entertaining.

NOW Designs by Danica

DEMDACO

P. Graham Dunn

Mud Pie

Partyware

Parties and gatherings are still in high demand, inside or outside, especially as the spring and summer weather approaches. Buntings and banners, along with die-cut shapes in paper plates and napkins are very popular.