Do You Rule Ribbon, or Does It Rule You?
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:
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?
Give Your Gift Baskets an Elegant Look Without Spending A Lot
Today’s Wholesaler Wisdom guest writer is Sarah Botchick of Pioneer Wholesale Co., Berea, OH.
In the gift basket industry, there is a common thought that to offer higher priced gift baskets the designer needs to purchase more expensive baskets.
But there is a little known trick to making your baskets LOOK more expensive without spending more on the components.
Use nicer ribbon and cheaper baskets!
The ribbon is the “face” of your basket – it is the first thing your customers see, and we all know the importance of first impressions.
If you spend more money on the ribbon, it increases the perceived value of the basket. You can then use a less expensive basket to make up for the increased cost of the ribbon.
Pioneer Wholesale Co. is an experienced wholesaler and importer. They sell beautiful ribbon to adorn your baskets. Visit www.pioneerwholesaleco.com or call 888-234-5400.
DESIGNERS: What do you think about Sarah’s suggestion? I encourage you to share feedback for her in the comments section.
Treat Your Ribbon Right
What happens to ribbon when it arrives in your studio? Here are four options.
Ribbon wastes your money if it’s not coordinated and ready for placement either on a gift box or fashioned into a bow for a basket, as you see displayed in the ribbon section of this site. That’s what happened to ribbon in the picture on the Gift Basket Design Studio Extreme Makeover page.
When ribbon arrives in your workspace, whether in a delivered box or carried by you from a warehouse, add it to your design area right away.
Treat your ribbon right, and it will reward you with sales and smiles from happy customers.
Learn more about ribbons and bows at Retail Wraps.
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