The San Francisco International Gift Show August 5, 2012
I had a blast, at today’s San Francisco International Gift Show. I’m looking for a few things I can “sprinkle” through the vintage and antique pieces of my new store.
An Asian importer has done a great job, painting pieces in colors pleasing to Western eyes.
How about surplus Army satchels and vintage medic bags?
I love this beautiful iron flag holder.
If I had a grandchild, this is where we’d party!
We’ll wrap up our visit tomorrow! Wish us well, as we try to “roll the dice” determining what buyers might like this winter!
The SF Gift Fair is nice (and huge!), but there are soooo many wonderful decorative accessories which are MADE IN AMERICA. Would love to see you join the ranks of those stores which only sell items “Made in America.”
Good point! One reason for going is to make sure I have a fairly good idea of what the current trends are, while trying to guess what’s coming next. Even selling antiques and vintage, you have to keep this in mind. (The show has shrunk by half, I understand, due to the economy and on line selling. Vendors who were there said business was slower than expected.)
I’d love to meet some northern California crafters I can work with! Etsy?
Thanks for your input!
Oh I would have loved to have been to that show, too. I remember once when I went to the Denver show how different everything was from the East Coast. Hope you are well and business is good.
xxoo, Barb
That is the kind of show I love…a peak into the upcoming trends, colors…always something unique to discover!
xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
2012 Artist Series
Hi Karena! Thanks for stopping by! Hope you’re feeling well these days!
Looks like a fun show, with some very interesting items. I’m sure you’ll find some great items for your store. 😉
Hi Donnamae,
I took a girlfriend with me, to be my sounding board. I don’t want my shop to look like everyone else’s, so it takes some time to come up with that “vision”! It’s slowly taking shape, which is really exciting.
It must be fun to buy for your store with the anticipation of lots of sales. I like the items that you photographed. Good luck on your buying trip!
Hi Kelly,
Yes, it’s fun and a little scary, at the same time! Sort of like throwing a party and wondering if anyone will come! 🙂
Barb…coming to the comment thread a bit late….so glad you had a great time at the show…how my heart skipped a beat when I saw that tent….do you know how many sheets and clothes pins I have to use to make a tent for my granddaughter?..too many….She would love that tent!!….
Hi Shirley, Yes, that tent is wonderful! I have great memories of letting my kids play fort with blankets, chairs and what ever else was needed. I didn’t look too closely, but I don’t think this tent could be too hard to make. Easier said than done! I’m looking forward to hopefully having a granddaughter someday!
How exciting…looks like a great show. Love the tent!!
Hello! I don’t think the company was selling tents, but it sure was darling and got your attention! I may try building one myself! Thanks for stopping by!