Advertise with Googlier.com Darrah & Co. https://darrahreps.com/ Atlanta's Premier Gift Showroom Wed, 29 Nov 2023 21:50:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.11 https://darrahreps.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/cropped-Darrah-Web-Icon-32x32.png Darrah & Co. https://darrahreps.com/ 32 32 January 2024 Market Tips https://darrahreps.com/january-2024-market-tips/ Wed, 29 Nov 2023 20:32:19 +0000 https://darrahreps.com/?p=13518 January 2024 Market Tips
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The post January 2024 Market Tips appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Dave Clark

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January 2024 Market Tips
Darrah & Co.

January 2024 Market Tips

The countdown is on with January Market arriving next month! Or as we like to refer to it as the “Super Bowl” of the gift industry. Except it doesn’t cost over $1,000 for a ticket!

As you prepare for your trip into our peachy city, take a look at our quick go-to guide that will help you plan your successful week at Market.

Don’t miss these tips:

  1. Come to Atlanta! You really shouldn’t miss all that Darrah & Co. has to offer. Don’t miss out on our good southern hospitality and our fabulous line package! It’s not too late to book your hotel. Find it here!
  1. Get the @Market ANDMORE Buyers App. AmericasMart has a brand-new buyer’s Market App. Register first on AmericasMart website here. Download the app on the App store to navigate market easily. Once logged in to your account, go straight to Scan & Go registration to scan for your printed Market Badge. No need to wait in long lines. Store photos, create a plan, get directions, find a place for lunch all on the new App. Save the Darrah & Co. showroom first!
  1. Make an appointment with your Darrah Rep. We work best if we have set aside time to just work with you! We will open at noon on Sunday, Jan. 14th, 2023. We also hold a special raffle for an IPAD to those customers who BOOK and KEEP their appointments! If you win, your rep wins one too. That’s how much we love our Reps! And how much we love you!
  1. Start at the TOP – Darrah & Co.–18th Every morning we start the day with Coffee and Donuts, come join us!
  1. Park and shuttle for FREE! AmericasMart will offer a FREE shuttle from Americasmart to the airport. It runs every hour on the hour between 1 and 6 p.m. Check out that and other transportation options Check to see if your hotel has a shuttle service. Driving? Check out parking options here. SHHH! There is free buyer’s parking at the American Cancer Society and Peachtree Center. Apparently, you can also reserve parking if you’re not cool with FREE parking! But who wouldn’t be cool with FREE and convenient parking?
  1. Eat well! Find great dining options on the @Market app and the website. Or check out some of Darrah’s favorite places: Alma Cocina, for fresh guacamole and margaritas to top off your day or also try the vibrant and tasty Tex-Mex, Superica. Looking to order a pizza to go for your crew? Stop by Amalfi Pizza or call in and order ahead. Also, a Darrah favorite is HSU’s. If you are looking for more traditional American style options, check out Ted’s Montana Grill, Gus’s Fried Chicken, White Oak, and AG at The Ritz Carlton. Ponce City Market, Municipal Market, Inman Park, Old 4th Ward, and Buckhead Village District, which are all just a short drive away offer incredible options for your foodie cravings. Make your reservations now! Atlanta is a Foodie town with tons of great options.
  1. Have a COCKTAIL on us from our 2 new cocktail vendors! Stop by our showroom on the 18th Floor all week for tastings from The Southern Spirit where they believe (and we do too) in the “fundamental principles of God first, family next and hospitality always.”  Come “slay the day with drinks your way” at D’Marie for a frozen cocktail as well.  And I almost forgot, SWIG has a permanent bubble bar in our showroom full of prosecco ALL DAY LONG!
  1. Have fun! Come have fun with us! We have so many new and exciting lines to show you this year. We have great new products from lines we just love and can’t part with. We just can’t wait to show you!

Look out for our 2024 January Look Book – it will be a sneak peek into all that awaits you in January at Darrah & Co. It will feature all our lines and all the January Market events that you won’t want to miss. It’s coming to your inbox real soon! Can’t wait to see you at the TOP!

The post January 2024 Market Tips appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Dave Clark

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Vendor Spotlight: Penguin Random House https://darrahreps.com/blog-post-vendor-spotlight-penguin-random-house/ Thu, 05 Oct 2023 23:35:33 +0000 https://darrahreps.com/?p=13428 Vendor Spotlight: Penguin Random House
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Vendor Spotlight: Penguin Random House
Darrah & Co.

Vendor Spotlight: Penguin Random House

The month of October is upon us, and that means that we’re heading into the biggest gift-giving season of the year!  What’s more, October is also National Book Month — a month-long celebration of reading, writing, and literature.  It’s time to celebrate the joy of books and to promote the joy of reading!  Penguin Random House, and the many publishers under their corporate umbrella, are overflowing with awesome books to help spread awareness!

Books make perfect gifts for everyone on your list!  Regardless of their age, gender, or interests – there’s something for everyone!  Whether you’re looking for nostalgia, escapism, sports, history, cookbooks, interior design, floral design, children’s, or fiction, we have you covered!  You’ll be rewarded with the knowledge that your gift will be read and referenced over and over again!

Here are some top category suggestions: 

Food & Drink 

Fashion & Beauty

Pop Culture & Trend    

Interior Design

Children’s 

To reiterate, books are perfect gifts!  While you’re purchasing for others, feel free to treat yourself!

 

CONTACT YOUR DARRAH REP TO ORDER!

The post Vendor Spotlight: Penguin Random House appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Cindy Clark

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July Will Bring New Vendors, Fresh Collections, & Exciting Events https://darrahreps.com/july-will-bring-new-vendors-fresh-collections-exciting-events/ Wed, 05 Jul 2023 16:18:50 +0000 https://darrahreps.com/?p=12813 July Will Bring New Vendors, Fresh Collections, & Exciting Events
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July Will Bring New Vendors, Fresh Collections, & Exciting Events
Darrah & Co.

July Will Bring New Vendors, Fresh Collections, & Exciting Events

Summer Market officially takes place July 11 – July 17, 2023. It will be an exciting week with lots of NEW vendors to see as well as established brands featuring fresh collections, not to mention many special events and show specials.  Read on and make your appointment with us today. {Book and keep your appointment with us and be entered to win an iPad for both you and your rep!} 

Meet SIX New Brands Joining the Darrah Family

 

India Handicraft 

A name you may already recognize, India Handicraft was established in 1985, specializing in handcrafted tabletop, gifts, and home décor. We are honored to partner with this incredible company to connect you with their amazing product mix of beauty, function, and practicality in the home accessories industry.  From entertaining and serveware, to rugs and lighting, you won’t want to miss their debut with us this July.

View Catalog

Jollity & Co. 

Anything but basic, this woman-owned online party boutique was founded in 2016 out of Norfolk, Virginia. Jollity describes themselves as “A one-stop shop for stylized party supplies for the discerning hostess!” which we think is spot on. Offering every paper product under the sun, to all types of decorations, favors, and gifts, these ladies have it all for your perfect soiree. They even have a children’s party line called Daydream which includes puzzles and games!

View Catalogs 

Zingz Home

Zingz Home specializes in beautiful furnishings, charming accents, and more for the indoor and outdoor living spaces. Introduced to the scene in 2014, their motto “enjoy your home” rings true in every category offering from unique lighting, décor accents, fun furniture designs, birdhouses and more.

View Catalog

Up With Paper

Up With Paper offers a playful way for people to connect through stationary, books, and greeting cards. However, these are not your average birthday cards! Think pull-tabs, sound-makers, and push-button light effects! In 2018, the company celebrated their 40th year anniversary and has been nationally recognized in the design community for developing outstanding pop-up greeting cards.

View Catalogs

The Original Standing Stocking

The Original Standing Stocking which is the FIRST of its kind and will change the way your customers decorate for the holidays forever! Enhance their traditional Christmas décor this season with a stylish and fun stocking that can be used year after year. It stands up on its own, and even lights up with LED lights! The Original Standing Stocking is a safer alternative to hanging stocking holders and putting holes in your walls.  Spread the spirit of joy and giving in your store with these collapsible, safer, and coolest stockings ever!

View Catalog

Luv Bug

Luv Bug creates gear for life’s adventures. Blending function and high-quality design together, Luv Bug gear is multi-functional with on-trend, fresh styles. Sunscreen towels will have you ready for all of life’s sunny adventures. Shoppers will love these for themselves and for others as they keep your family protected with powerful UPF 50+ fabric that blocks at least 98% of harmful UV rays. These are perfect for the beach, lake, or pool and offer a highly absorbent, breathable and sand-repelling fabric that will make outdoor experiences an absolute breeze. Explore other product offerings such as infant car seat covers, cooler totes, and wet bags.

View Catalog

 

Mix and Mingle with Us in the Showroom

Start at the top with us each morning and enjoy complimentary coffee & donuts and make plans on Wednesday and Thursday evenings to shop late and enjoy dinner on us.  

  • Monday, July 10: VIB Day, Coffee & Donuts, Taco Bar Lunch 
  • Tuesday, July 11: First Official Day of Market, Coffee & Donuts, Afternoon Charcuterie Board 
  • Wednesday, July 12: Coffee & Donuts, BBQ Dinner Night, Shop Late Until 8 p.m. 
  • Thursday, July 13: Coffee & Donuts, Italian Dinner Night, Shop Late Until 8 p.m. 
  • Friday July 14: Coffee & Donuts 

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!

 

The post July Will Bring New Vendors, Fresh Collections, & Exciting Events appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Cindy Clark

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Your Guide to July Market Tips and Reminders https://darrahreps.com/july-2023-market-tips/ Wed, 21 Jun 2023 17:47:17 +0000 https://darrahreps.com/?p=12737 Your Guide to July Market Tips and Reminders
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Your Guide to July Market Tips and Reminders
Darrah & Co.

Your Guide to July Market Tips and Reminders

The countdown is on with July Market arriving in less than a month! As you prepare for your trip into our peachy city, take a look at our quick go-to guide that will help you plan your successful week at Market. 

Darrah Showroom Special Events 

First Things First! Start at the top with us each morning and enjoy complimentary coffee & donuts and make plans on Wednesday and Thursday evenings to shop late and enjoy dinner with us.  

Monday, July 10: VIB Day, Coffee & Donuts, Taco Bar Lunch 

Tuesday, July 11: First Official Day of Market, Coffee & Donuts, Afternoon Charcuterie Board 

Wednesday, July 12: Coffee & Donuts, BBQ Dinner Night, Shop Late Until 8 p.m. 

Thursday, July 13: Coffee & Donuts, Italian Dinner Night, Shop Late Until 8 p.m. 

Notable Market Tips 

Many of us have been coming to Market for years, even decades; but for some of us, this may be our first of many! To help make it a little easier and less overwhelming for our newbies, we have come up with a list of our favorite tips we have learned over the years to help make your week as enjoyable and successful as possible. 

  • Make an Appointment with your Darrah and Co. Rep. If you keep your Market appointment, you are automatically entered to win a free iPad for both you and your Rep! Winners will be announced following Market!
  • Explore the AmericasMart campus floorplans and directory. Learn the layout and get a head start on which showrooms and brands you’d like to meet with. Make appointments ahead of time and close to one another if possible. So, for instance, start your shopping at the top with us on Floor 18, Building 2 and make sure to visit any other brands you’d like to see on the same floor that day and work your way down.
  • Be comfortable! Wear your most comfortable walking shoes. Did we tell you our campus is over 7 million square feet? That’s a lot of feet for your feet!
  • Stay Hydrated! Bring your own water bottle and refuel throughout the day.
  • Know Your Budget! It’s easy for your eyes to be bigger than your budget when it comes to Market, but coming with a solid idea of how you want to spend your dollars is crucial for your store’s success. Ask about show specials and take advantage of free freight. Many of these offers are only available at Market!
  • Bring Your Business Cards! With each order you write, you will be asked for the same information: Store name, shipping address, phone number, credit card # etc. Save time and have this ready to provide in advance!

Our Favorite Eats {And Drinks} 

COFFEE, COFFEE, COFFEE 

But first, coffee. Start your day at the top with us every morning {and all day} for complimentary coffee! You can also find other caffeinated hot spots in Buildings 1, 2, and 3. Check out the AmericasMart Dining Guide for more information. 

Other Downtown Coffee Spots:  

With AmericasMart hosting over 7 million square feet of wholesale products, you will want to come fueled and ready to write your orders! Some of our staff favorites are right here within walking distance. But do not forget, if you are at Market on Monday, July 10th, we will be serving a complimentary lunch!  

If you want to explore outside of AmericasMart, check out Alma Cocina, for fresh guacamole and margaritas to top off your day or also try the vibrant and tasty tex -mex, Superica. Looking to order a pizza to go for your crew? Stop by Amalfi Pizza or call in and order ahead. Also, a fan favorite is HSU’s. Since 1989, they have been serving the best Chinese in town, not to mention their service is one for the books. If you are looking for more traditional American style options, check out Ted’s Montana Grill, Gus’s Fried Chicken, White Oak, and AG at The Ritz Carlton. Ponce City Market, Municipal Market, Inman Park, Old 4th Ward, and Buckhead Village District, which are all just a short drive away offering incredible options for your foodie cravings. Read more here. 

Best Places for A Cocktail with a View 

Treat yourself after all that shopping. Atlanta has a top-notch cocktail scene to wind down the day. Check out these views while you sip at Polaris at The Hyatt Regency, Nikoli’s Rooftop at The Hilton, and the Sun Dial Restaurant at The Westin. 

Best Atlanta Hotels 

Atlanta is not only known for its southern hospitality but also its central and convenient location to downtown hotels and transportation. Downtown alone boasts 10,000 hotel rooms within walking distance of the Georgia World Congress Center. That’s a lot of options! Enjoy big savings by booking your hotel through AmericasMart’s official housing partner onPeak. Most official hotels feature free shuttle service or are within walking distance. 

July is an exciting time for us to be able to come back together in 2023 and present another great lineup of new products. We look forward to seeing our valued customers this summer! 

The post Your Guide to July Market Tips and Reminders appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Cindy Clark

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NEW Lines We are Loving Right Now https://darrahreps.com/new-lines-we-are-loving-right-now/ Thu, 04 May 2023 23:46:46 +0000 https://darrahreps.com/?p=12516 NEW Lines We are Loving Right Now
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NEW Lines We are Loving Right Now
Darrah & Co.

NEW Lines We are Loving Right Now

Refresh Your Inventory With These Three Must-Have Brands

Happy Spring Friends!

Or should we say Summer?! Where does the time go? We hope you are loving all of your January Market finds, and as you plan ahead {already!} for July, here are some NEW lines we encourage you to explore for the upcoming season.

POCKET SOCKS

The Most Clever Sock In The World

We introduced PocketSocks officially at January Market, but this incredible brand exploded onto the scene in 2019.  Seventeen Magazine recently listed Pocket Socks as “the most thoughtful father-daughter gift ideas for 2023” and Beauty News NYC included them under their best “travel essentials” list. These uniquely designed socks with hand-sewn, zippered security pockets were soon discovered by ABC’s Good Morning America. In less than five hours, 25,000 pairs of Pocket Socks were sold, and Pocket Socks have made securing valuables comfortable and fashionable ever since. Look for fun patterns like tacos, nautical, rainbow, unicorns, llamas, dots and more.

View Catalog

THE ORIGINAL STANDING STOCKING

An All-New Christmas Tradition

Welcome to the pack! Introducing The Original Standing Stocking which is the FIRST of its kind and will change the way your customers decorate for the holidays forever! Enhance their traditional Christmas décor this season with a stylish and fun stocking that can be used year after year. It stands up on its own, and even lights up with LED lights! The Original Standing Stocking is a safer alternative to hanging stocking holders and putting holes in your walls.  Spread the spirit of joy and giving in your store with these collapsible, safer, and coolest stockings ever!

And in case you were wondering, there are 238 Days, 14 Hours, and 00 Minutes until Christmas, but it’s never too late to start Christmas shopping now!

View Catalog

LUV BUG

Experience Life Unplugged

Luv Bug creates gear for life’s adventures. Blending function and high-quality design together, Luv Bug gear is multi-functional with on-trend, fresh styles. sunscreen towels will have you ready for all of life’s sunny adventures. Shoppers will love these for themselves and for others as they keep your family protected with powerful UPF 50+ fabric that blocks at least 98% of harmful UV rays. These are perfect for the beach, lake, or pool and offer a highly absorbent, breathable and sand-repelling fabric that will make outdoor experiences an absolute breeze. Explore other product offerings such as infant car seat covers, cooler totes, and wet bags.

View Catalog

 

SHOP NOW

 

The post NEW Lines We are Loving Right Now appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Cindy Clark

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3 Growing Categories Your Store Should be Carrying: Sustainability, Self-Care, and Pet Products https://darrahreps.com/3-growing-catagories-your-store-should-be-carrying-sustainability-self-care-and-pet-products/ Wed, 15 Mar 2023 20:16:44 +0000 https://darrahreps.com/?p=12274 3 Growing Categories Your Store Should be Carrying: Sustainability, Self-Care, and Pet Products
Darrah & Co.

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3 Growing Categories Your Store Should be Carrying: Sustainability, Self-Care, and Pet Products
Darrah & Co.

3 Growing Categories Your Store Should be Carrying: Sustainability, Self-Care, and Pet Products

The key factor in maintaining a healthy business is to always be looking for new areas of growth. In today’s blog post, we would like to focus on three categories that are growing rapidly yet are often overlooked. They are sustainability, self-care and pet products.

Sustainability

It seems like everyone is moving towards doing better for our planet with more sustainable, and eco-friendly choices available to consumers. Just last year, IBM reported that “the demand for sustainable consumer goods is on the rise, with 3 out of 5 consumers saying socially responsible or sustainable products made up at least half of their last purchase.” With this booming category not slowing down, SHOP these planet-friendly options such as RIGWA and Swig Life. 

Following the “reuse vs. Single-use” philosophy, RIGWA simply helps us make better choices for our planet. RIGWA’s products offer highly durable and reusable containers that are sleek and functional for daily use – at home and on-the-go. These sleek food storage bowls “keep life fresh” and help preserve our planet with every use. Wholesale pricing begins at $19.00.  

Not only does Swig Life offer you the perfect drinkware options for fashion and function, the company is also extremely eco-friendly. Pair their reusable cups, mugs, and tumblers, with colorful sustainable straw sets, that you can use time and time again. 

 Self-Care

As we talked about in last month’s blog post, the self-care rapidly growing segment is clearly not going anywhere. We continue to see this global wellness market on the rise {and might we add, “sustainable”} estimating at more than $1.5 trillion, with annual growth of 5 to 10 percent.” {Mckinsey} Don’t walk friends, run and SHOP lines such as Mangiacotti, Cait & Co, and FarmHouse Fresh!  

Made in the USA, Mangiacotti features all-natural bath, body, and home fragrance and home are products that are kind to Mother Earth. Their plant-made products are created with recyclable materials and never tested on animals. Shop their Earth friendly products and feel the good in giving.  

Developed by female entrepreneur Cait Abshier, these hand-made bath and boy products are uniquely designed to bring joy. As Cait & Co says, “we are here to help you embrace the day, experience simplicity, soak up stillness, and radiate beauty.” 

If you haven’t heard the buzz on this farm-to-table skincare line, then skip to it! FarmHouse Fresh! is a must-have feel-good, do-good, beauty-enhancing gift for anyone special to you. This Texas company grows fresh ingredients daily, giving your skin the absolute freshest glow possible. Each product purchase also goes towards an animal in need, so you can always feel good about using this product.  

 Pet Accessories

Pet-lovers behold!  PR Newsire cites “The global pet accessories market size is estimated to increase by $13 million.” That’s a lot! And it makes sense, as each Market season, we see more pet lines popping up. Many successful {and smart!} vendors have expanded their product offerings to also include this trending category such as our very own, About Face, and PetShop by Fringe Studio, Love Is Project, Top It Off Accessories, and Swig Life. SHOP merchandise for pet-lovers now. 

You may already be familiar with these creative, heartwarming gifts, but About Face Designs also offers a complete pet collection featuring unique accessories such as bandanas, tags and collars. The perfect gift for your pet-loving friends. 

PetShop by Fringe Studio was created to offer high quality pet toys, beds, bowls, treat jars and more. And it’s not just humans that want sustainable products, pets do too! Their dog toys are made with recycled and natural materials filled with spun recycled water bottle filling. 

Don’t miss the special LOVE dog collar from Love Is Project or a pet bowl from SWIG LIFE that matches your own sustainable tumbler or mug. Our most popular apparel line, Top It Off Accessories even sells dog “apparel” now.

In the coming months, we will be examining other categories that will help you to grow. But in the meantime if you focus on the three: sustainability, self-care and pet products, we believe that your sales goals will be easily reached!

The post 3 Growing Categories Your Store Should be Carrying: Sustainability, Self-Care, and Pet Products appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Cindy Clark

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4 Reasons Why Your Store Needs FarmHouse Fresh https://darrahreps.com/4-reasons-why-your-store-needs-farmhouse-fresh/ Wed, 01 Feb 2023 23:14:03 +0000 https://darrahreps.com/?p=12043 4 Reasons Why Your Store Needs FarmHouse Fresh
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4 Reasons Why Your Store Needs FarmHouse Fresh
Darrah & Co.

4 Reasons Why Your Store Needs FarmHouse Fresh

The global trend of health and wellness continues to be on the rise with consumers wanting more and more naturally safe, and organic products for their skin. This billion-dollar industry isn’t slowing down any time soon, so stay up to date and in the know on the latest self-care products like this farm-table-line, FarmHouse Fresh.

#1 Every Purchase Rescues An Animal

Everyone loves a good story behind the product they purchase, but this one is REALLY good. What if we told you that every FarmHouse Fresh product purchased gave animals a second chance while nourishing and improving your complexion? They believe (and we do too) “life is infinitely richer when we help those we love, and we LOVE animals.” The Today Show and People Magazine have even taken notice of their rescue mission – watch here. And what’s super special and makes consumers feel connected is the ability to track the batch code purchased and see the animals saved! A product that truly does rescue more than just your skin!

#2 Ingredients are Organic, Fresh, Cruelty Free, & USA Made

We all know Kale is good for you but did you know that FHF-grown micro kale contributes to smoother, firmer skin and can fight signs of aging? Seriously – They have a Kale Moisturizer! Their specialty are Microgreens which are “tiny potent botanicals are more nutrient-dense than many full-size vegetables!” It’s no wonder spas, hotels, and resorts from all over choose FarmHouse Fresh for their farm-to-table harvested botanicals!

#3 – Truly A Gift For Every Occasion

Consumers are always shopping for gifts! A friend’s birthday, mother’s day, a new-mama self-care gift, a galentine’s gift, hostess gift, even guy’s gifts – you name it, FHF is the perfect present for any shopper. FHF even has it all broken down for you by occasion, price, and recipient – see more here. Add this feel-good and do-good product to your store assortment, your customers will thank you!

#4 – A-List Celebrities LOVE FarmHouse Fresh

FHF has been selected by Southern Living Magazine as one of their “favorite companies making beautiful products, right here in the South.” And not to name drop, but the Honey Heel Glaze was featured on Oprah’s O List and the Shea Butter Bar Soap is a favorite of Martha Stewart Living….not to mention Lisa Kudrow and Reba McIntire have also been known to indulge in this skin and animal saving product. Need we say more?

FarmHouse Fresh is zip code protected, so please contact your rep for more information on ordering.

SHOP NOW and discover this animal loving and skincare rescue line that truly lives up to it’s mission. #farmieglow

The post 4 Reasons Why Your Store Needs FarmHouse Fresh appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Cindy Clark

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2023 January Market Tips! https://darrahreps.com/2023-january-market-tips/ Wed, 07 Dec 2022 21:40:08 +0000 https://darrahreps.com/?p=11676 2023 January Market Tips!
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2023 January Market Tips!
Darrah & Co.

2023 January Market Tips!

The holidays are upon us and we all know what comes next. After the hustle and bustle of your busiest season, it’s time for market! There’s no rest for the weary as it will soon be time to head to Atlanta to find new and exciting products to restock your shelves for a brand new year. How can it almost be that time already? Let’s go over a few market tips that will help you plan your strategy to tackle the world’s largest collection of wholesale home, gift, and apparel showrooms! After all, market week is not for the faint of heart. It is a test of will and fortitude!

  1. Do your homework! It’s best not to show up without a plan and you can’t have a plan without putting in some study time. Don’t be that kid in school who’d always stumble in late for the test with no pencil and no idea of what chapters the test was covering. That never ended well. Browse vendors online and get a feel for the floors and showrooms that will fit your customer base. Keep your customers in mind as you shop. What do they want? What is their price range? What sells best? What seasons are you shopping for? No need to wander aimlessly on a floor devoted to soup tureens and cuckoo clocks unless, of course, those are hot sellers for you. It’s good to look over the Exhibitor Directory and Floor Plans on the AmericasMart website to help you get your plan in place. Make appointments in showrooms you always shop to keep your wait time to a minimum and to guarantee you’ll work with your regular representative who knows you best.
  1. Nobody is coming to market to look at your shoes. The sooner you can convince yourself of that unshakable truth, the happier you’ll be. The importance of comfortable shoes cannot be overemphasized! In one day, you’ll be walking as much as you’d normally walk in four at home. Your Fitbit may even begin to believe it’s been stolen by an avid hiker or long distance runner- convinced those number couldn’t possibly belong to you! Yeah, it’s a lot of walking and we all know if our feet aren’t happy, neither is the rest of us! Nothing can ruin a day at market like a big blister on the heel, so forget about fashion from the ankles down. This week is about comfort and endurance and less than stunning shoes.
  1. Bring a rolling bag even though others will hate you for it. Yes, there will be complimentary tote bags everywhere. Everyone and their mother will try to give you a bag- but if you’d like to lighten your load- a small rolling bag is a great way to do it. Just try to remember your rolling bag etiquette and keep it close to you and out of the way of others. This will help you avoid ugly looks from other buyers who may have worn cute shoes and have a blister and your rolling bag is blocking their way to the elevator door. And don’t try to gather catalogs while you’re there or you’ll quickly pop your tires. No, have those mailed to your store. The bag will come in handy for order copies, freebies, samples, and essentials. You’ll need to pack like you’re going on a hike because you’re about to scale the Everest of retail. Advil, band-aids, a phone charger, a water bottle, a notepad, and your market directory are good ideas. Maybe even a compass in case you plan on wandering over into the West Wing.
  1. Did someone say free food?  You’ll be too busy to stop very long for lunch, but there are snacks-a-plenty in many showrooms. Wear your stretchy pants because there will be M&M’s, buttery popcorn, chips and dips, warm cookies, candy bars, and cheeses laying around everywhere. It may not be the best week to try to get that cholesterol down, but it will give you the boost you’ll need to keep going. If you have an appointment during a meal time, your rep may even offer you a plate of real food and it will be the best thing you’ve seen all day! In the evening hours, some showrooms will provide adult beverages. A glass of wine may unwind you after a long day, but four glasses may unwind your monetary judgment so proceed with caution.  
  1. It bears repeating- write it down! It’s a great idea to put all your info on one card! Store name, store phone number, contact name, contact number, tax identification numbers, shipping address, billing address, credit card numbers, expiration date, security code, etc. When placing orders, you’ll be asked for this same information over and over and over again. Unless you just enjoy repeating yourself ad nauseum, make it easy. Having all this information on a single index card to hand to your sales representative makes it faster and easier for everyone! Just remember to get it back each time. If you keep it in your wallet and treat it as carefully as you would a credit or debit card, you’ll find it keeps you from sounding like a broken record… record… record …record… record.
  1. Don’t forget to use the B word. Engage in budget talks before you come. Nobody likes the B word, but it’s part of life. Go in with some perimeters and keep a running tally of your order copies to get an idea of where you are on your budget. You may want to break it down and determine how much to spend on each season or each area. When you finally get back in your hotel room with your feet propped up, waiting on room service to bring your $30 hamburger, you can assess your budget and the areas where you’re lacking to help steer your spending for the next day. Ask about show specials and other promotions like free shipping that may help you stretch your budget as far as possible.

Yes, market is a lot of work and completely exhausting for buyers and sellers, but it’s such an exciting time for us to be able to present our lineup of new products. We look forward to seeing our valued customers each market season and January will be no exception! You are the reason we do what we do and together we can really accomplish some BIG things! Make an appointment with your representative today to ensure a time slot and let’s all look to 2023 with excitement and anticipation of a year of new possibilities!

The post 2023 January Market Tips! appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Cindy Clark

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Coffee, Anyone? https://darrahreps.com/coffee-anyone/ Fri, 11 Nov 2022 19:29:18 +0000 https://darrahreps.com/?p=11617 Coffee, Anyone?
Darrah & Co.

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Coffee, Anyone?
Darrah & Co.

Coffee, Anyone?

How about a cup of Joe? According to a recent article in the Journal of Marketing, that’s a question you should be asking your customers! The article was based on an international study led by the University of South Florida that looked at the effects that caffeine had on shoppers and the findings were eye-opening!

In one experiment, a group of 300 shoppers were divided into two groups. Half were given a complimentary cup of coffee with about 100 mg of caffeine and half were offered water or decaf coffee before they began shopping. The group that was given caffeinated coffee spent significantly more money and purchased a higher number of items than the group with no caffeine. As in 50% more money spent and 30% more items purchased! Not only did the caffeine seem to affect how much was spent, but the items purchased under the influence of caffeine were more impulse purchases meant for enjoyment and not for practical uses. The impulse buys included items like scented candles, décor, and fragrances. Some of the things you probably sell in your store!

What causes this spending buzz in shoppers? It’s thought that 25-200 mg of caffeine enhances impulsivity. Caffeine is a powerful stimulant and releases dopamine in the brain, which excites the mind and body. This physical chain reaction can decrease self-control when we shop and lead to the purchase of more non-essential items. That could mean good news for retailers!  

It’s that time of year when our stores are filling up with shoppers who are eager to check names off of their Christmas lists. Given the findings of this study, maybe it would be a good idea to pull out the coffee pot and set up a complimentary java station for your holiday customers! They’ll appreciate the pick-me-up and who knows- it may have benefits for you, too!

So, drink up, buttercup!

The post Coffee, Anyone? appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Cindy Clark

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Love Is Project https://darrahreps.com/blog-post-love-is-project/ Fri, 28 Oct 2022 18:17:44 +0000 https://darrahreps.com/?p=11565 Love Is Project
Darrah & Co.

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Love Is Project
Darrah & Co.

Love Is Project

What’s love got to do with it?

EVERYTHING!

Our next new line to introduce to you was built on that crazy little thing called love! It’s the Love Is Project! The idea was born when founder, Chrissie Lam, moved to Kenya and met women in the Maasai tribe who made gorgeous beaded items. Chrissie was blown away by their artistry and worked with these women to design a bracelet incorporating the word, LOVE, because it’s the one thing that helps us all thrive and stay connected in this big world.

What started in 2012 in Kenya has now grown to empower over 2,000 female artisans in 10 developing countries using materials native to their country! This partnership gives economic opportunities for these women to enjoy financial freedom and look toward a more positive future. Each bracelet is literally a labor of love and will impact the lives of women all over the globe in places like Indonesia, India, Guatemala, Philippines, Bhutan, Kenya, Ecuador, Vietnam, Colombia, and Mexico. The goal of Love Is Project is to empower even more communities with the power of love!

Maybe you saw Love Is Project when it was featured on Shark Tank in 2021. Chrissy and her mom, Gladys, who run this business all alone, showcased their products and the idea behind them on the show. They’ve also been spotlighted on Good Morning, America! Love Is Project has appeared in Vogue magazine and Oprah featured their dog collars in Oprah Magazine! We think it’s safe to say that Love Is Project has created quite a buzz!

You can have all this love delivered to your store when you join this partnership powered by LOVE and a tribe of collaborators, artisans, and a worldwide support system. They offer a beautiful collection of wearable art from friendship bracelets, seed bead bracelets, kids’ styles, love bracelets, dog collars, and even assorted kits that give your customers a wide variety to choose from at great price points! This will be a great addition to your inventory as we head into those gift-giving months and you’ll be helping women around the world at the same time! It’s a win-win for LOVE!

Call your rep and make an appointment! They’ll LOVE to show you the beautiful intricate artistry of these bracelets. You’ll be amazed! Colorful, vibrant, fun – and a reminder that we’re all in this together! We’re sure you’ll fall in love just like we did!

 

 

The post Love Is Project appeared first on Darrah & Co. written by Cindy Clark

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