There’s an old saying: Change is the only constant. We at Giftware News have undergone some changes recently. John Saxtan, who greeted you in this space, is no longer with the magazine. We want to thank him for all he brought to our magazine and wish him much success and happiness in his future endeavors.

As I’ve said, we’ve made some changes. There’s been a realignment of our gift-related magazine group that better reflects trends in retailing. Giftware News, Baby & Kids, and Fancy Food & Culinary Products magazines will be written by a team of four editors. Joining me and Ashley Trent on Giftware News are Associate Editors Stephanie Hunsberger and Mary Gerlach. Stephanie currently heads up Fancy Food and brings several years of experience covering gourmet food, tabletop, and home entertaining products. Mary, currently on Baby & Kids, brings knowledge of the always expanding world of gifts to celebrate births and treats for the younger set, including dinnerware and a variety of accessories. You can get to meet them this month since both of them have written previews for our AmericasMart Atlanta article.
 
So yes, some things have changed. But what hasn’t changed and never will is our commitment to offer our readers the most informative and helpful magazine possible—a magazine filled with the latest trends and giftware ideas to make your shop work and help you prosper.

Candles and personal care continue to be good sellers and this month Ashley shows you what’s lighting up sales. Ornaments make a lasting gift and I’ll look at what will decorate the tree for 2009. And Jolene Turner, who left for the bright lights of New York, shows you what was new at the National Stationery Show.

And speaking of new products, do yourself a favor and go to a gift show this summer. I’ve just finished compiling the information on the shows, and I can tell you that organizers have put together some great special events and informative programs for you.  Actually, the thing I like about these shows is that you get to see products “in person.” You can pick something up and picture it in your shop and think about the customers it would attract. And you never know what you’ll find around the next corner or in the next showroom—or what display ideas you’ll pick up that you can use in your shop. And be sure to take some time to socialize with your fellow buyers, again an opportunity to share information and ideas.

We’ll also be at the shows looking for the latest products and trends to bring back to you. Ashley, Stephanie, Mary, and I look forward to keeping you informed and continuing to make Giftware News your must-read.

See you next month-
Barbara Wujcik
Editorial Coordinator