Gift markets offer big selection of merchandise
Buyers find variety, unique products at seasonal shows
Staff -- Kids Today, 8/1/2005
At the Atlanta Gift Market last month and the New York Gift Market this month, along with many other regional shows across the country, buyers can hunt down plenty of youth offerings in a variety of categories. From plush to wall art to luxury bedding, gift markets offer the opportunity to ferret out unique merchandise and find the next great thing — before your competitor does. These finds can also add the perfect finishing touch to nursery and youth bedroom vignettes, giving them a lived-in look that attracts both kids and parents.
Pamela Drake's wooden push train features bright colors and whimsical characters that appeal to young eyes.
Rich Frog's cozy cotton velour caps keep little heads warm and also serve as hand puppets mom and dad can use to entertain their kids. The caps come in several colors and characters — dog, frog, duck, bunny, moose and unicorn — and retail between $11.95 and $12.95.
EeBoo's wall art cards helps kids learn to count as well as recognize several types of birds. The set of 10 cards, which double as wall art, retails for $20.
PBC International has added eight musical bears to its Chantilly Lane collection, including Cowboy Hank and Cowgirl Kitty, who both sing "Never Ending Song of Love" by Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty. The bears retail for $29.95 each.
Built NY's Double Thirsty bag is insulated and has a carrying handle that snaps to strollers, carseats, diaper bags and more. The double bag retails for $15; a single version is $10.
Jack Rabbit Creations is offering its fleece dot blanket in a fashionable orange and pink combination. It retails for $36.
These two-sided pendants are designed for the older child. One side reads "I'm the big brother/sister" and the other, "I'm the original prince/princess." From Squish, they retail for $10.
Kootie Bug Designs introduced several new giclee prints in Atlanta, including this one of Wilbur the Whale.
Zutano's Hip Hoppy plush is available in either chocolate or cream and comes outfitted in Zutano fashions.
The Robyn collection mixes hot tropical colors, stripes and a floral print for an up-to-date tween look. From Maddie Boo, the set retails for $696.
