Another unexpected alliance, Garden and Gun (the Soul of the the South magazine) and Creative Women. I met Haskell Harris, an associate editor, at the February New York Gift Show. She was interested in featuring a Creative Women Dots Beach Blanket in their summer edition. I was being my Vermont, somewhat reclusive self, and wondering if this was a good match. See for yourself; we both share a number of similar interests and values ... beautiful things for the home, healthy life styles and good food, well designed products, and Emmylou Harris (she's featured in the June/July edtion).

GardensGunss

Oh, I forgot to mention that the first day out, we got a phone call from a Texan, who wanted to get one of the Dots for his wife ... it was their 44th wedding anniversary. He told me, "haven't been to Vermont yet, but I hear it's beautiful." Then he commented, "I think that creating jobs in Ethiopia's a pretty darn good thing, too."

Thanks Haskell and Garden and Gun.  Come see us again at the NYIGF.

Ellen

How does it happen? Before I even finish writing to all the people who visited our booth at the NY International Gift Fair, the show managers are asking for my (hefty) deposit for the next show.  But no complaints, this NYIGF (1/29-2/2) was an amazing show.

Creative Women had more buyers, first time lookers, media folks, friends, and sales than ever.  And, NY had another big snow storm.  We never lacked something to talk about ... what kind of boots do you wear in this weather (here I am, from VT, and I didn't have the right kind); what's it going to be like tomorrow; the reason it's quiet now is that everyone is afraid to come out in the snow; it's busy because the sun finally came out; you need a kayak to navigate the floods in the intersections.

But while everyone talked about winter, we listened to the oohs and ahs over our new Dotted towels and beach blankets.  More of that fabulous Ethiopian cotton, this time used for beach and picnic ware. 

Our new Dots Beach Blankets.

I found myself day dreaming about the waves at Montauk, the sand on the Vineyard, and the breeze and cliffs at Point Reyes.  I love NY, but ...

Back in VT, more snow, and more shipments to unpack with summer scarves, pillows.  And in just a few weeks, I'll be sending in our deposit for the Summer NYIGF ... where we'll be showing new wool/cotton scarves, cozy winter throws, maybe even some felt containers.  Better take some time to enjoy my summer daydreams.

Gauzy cotton from Ethiopia.

Ellen