Do You Rule Ribbon, or Does It Rule You?

January 28, 2009 · Filed Under Bows and Enhancements

gift baskets and ribbon pair well together Ribbon was plentiful at the New York International Gift Fair, the show I attended yesterday, displayed in booths with familiar names and by suppliers I didn’t recognize.

Everything from organza in beautiful shades to intricate wired brocades tempted buyers to stop and feel the fabrics, and that included me.

Colors were as gorgeous for men’s gift baskets as it was for women’s. All of it reminded me of what Sarah Botchick of Pioneer Wholesale Co. said last month about focusing on ribbon and not so much on the basket. Looking at what’s available for spring and summer, Sarah’s suggestion is right on target.

Before you turn yourself loose on ribbon at an upcoming trade show, be sure to:

Check your existing inventory. If one ribbon isn’t dazzling, I bet you can team it with another spool you already have and make a fabulous bow.

Review all colors. It’s okay to buy if you have no ribbon with pink or yellow or green or another color you believe will be instrumental in selling your gift baskets.

Expand your widths. Are most of your ribbons thin? If so, go ahead and buy a few three or four-inch wide selections. It will look great by itself or combined with a thinner option.

The only reason I resisted buying a dozen spools is because I checked what I have in stock before arriving at the show.

I’m in favor of lean inventory that sells quickly because I understand what my clients prefer. That’s my plan for everything, including ribbon. Perhaps this same focus will benefit you, too.

You’ll find two New York International Gift Fair show report links on this page and more information about ribbon and bows here.

What plans have you made to buy new ribbon, or do you currently have enough available for spring and summer?

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