2009

I have neglected this site for nearly a year while I've been writing, teaching and running the gallery. As I read and experience what is happening to the crafts marketplace I am drawn back to this blog as a way to get ideas out to even more people. Therefore I intend to post often here and hopefully begin a conversation that will be helpful to you as you navigate your careers in 2009. This is going to be a challenging time for us, however I see clues that the consumer may be prepared to reward the handmade. I get regular mail from George Little Management, the promoter of the New York Gift Show. This morning's contained the following Trend Report that offers clues to what may be a clue to what we can look forward to.
TREND REPORT: JUSTIFIABLE REWARDS
Gifting has become less of a reflection of the heart, and more a consideration of coin. Consumers will reach for the price tag before their wallet, opting for small but meaningful gifts. However, many still have disposable income for premium goods. Status is increasingly attached to scarcity—the more unique, one-of-a-kind, or limited edition, the more desirable. “Because I want it” just isn’t good enough these days to merit an indulgent purchase. Fortunately, there are still justifiable exceptions. Handmade items are always a hit, and quality counts. Artisan, ethnic, and regional design speak to consumers, encouraging the sale. Products that do good for the environment make people feel good—another prompt to purchase.Retailers may need to refresh their knowledge of “Sales 101” basics, by offering greater service and product knowledge, upselling, and closing. E-commerce offers a recession-resistant marketing solution.
This is all about us! We make the things we sell, we provide the best customer service around and who can be more knowledgeable about the product than the maker.