We're on our way to the New York International Gift Show!

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Only 4 more days!

We are looking forward to all that the NYIGF has to offer this year. Remember to check back to the blog and Twitter for updates on the show!

If you’ve ever been to a craft or trade show you know how hectic and stressful all the hustle and bustle can be. From parking...to crowds...to food, we’ve compiled a list of must do’s to make the NYIGF a little bit less stressful and easier to navigate while allowing you to fully enjoy what the best designers, artists and crafters across the country have to offer.

1. Get a Map and Mark it Up

Think of your map as your guide to a vacation. Everytime I go somewhere new, I get a map, some stickers and a sharpie and continue to mark up everything I know about it – where I want to go, where I’ve been, what I know about each place (this restaurant has the best tacos, or this is where the best view of the city is). As you go through the show, take a moment to mark each booth, write down the items you liked in case you get home and can’t stop thinking about that particular piece of jewelry, artwork or piece of clothing. This way, you know exactly where to go back to. And, everyone will be jealous of your map because you’ll look like a pro.

2.  See it all, then go back

After you have everything marked, use the last day of the fair to go back to those that you absolutely loved and want to purchase something from. You can also use this last day to bring your laziest friend along, who will be especially appreciative that you now know all the best booths and places that they would enjoy the most. Thanks again to that handy map.

3. Bring Snacks and Water

Depending on the show, most of the time you can bring in survival snacks. However, remember that the food there can be delicious if the show hosts local culinary artists. Water is very important as the shows can be crowded and hot, which means you may be walking for a long time before stopping to purchase a beverage or snack. I suggest the small 4 oz bottles because they fit right in your handbag. If you wanted to be professional, a camelbak is great too, even if you may look like you should be hiking a mountain instead of going to a gift show!

4. Be Patient

I know you may want to rush through the crowds and you might get annoyed with that woman in front of you with 5 strollers and her toy chihuahua in her handbag. Unless you really have to use the bathroom, try to be patient. Gift shows are large events and there is a lot going on at once, you just have to stop and take it one step at a time. Trust, me that comes from years of trying it the wrong way. If you feel like you are rushing around, stop, take a breath and look around at all the other people in a hurry. You’ll then think, “…I didn’t know that’s how crazy and impatient I looked…..”

That’s all for now, but stay tuned. If any more tips and tricks to the show come up you will know first thing!

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10 Must-See Booths at the New York International Gift Fair

Sunday, January 22, 2012

The New York International Gift Fair is fast approaching and we couldn't be more excited!

Artists, Creators, Crafters, Designers and International Vendors come together in one place for a market like none other. EmiLime is getting ready for this fabulous event and you'll be able to find us at booth #6319 in the Handmade Global Design section among the other great international designers. 

Here’s our list of the top vendors you should check out -

1. Robert Held Art Glass

Robert Held owns the largest hot glass studio in Canada and his work is simply phenomenal. Visit his website to check out his collections, they are beautiful. Expect to see detailed bowls and vases, as well as jewelry and paperweights all custom designed, Queen Elizabeth II herself owns a few of his collections. 

2. Ethno Art Vision

Created in London by Emmanuel shuga Kasongo, Ethno Art Vision specializes in handmade accessories and home furnishings from recycle materials and according to Emily makes the most  incredible jewelry. 

3. Apartment Therapy 

If you have ever found yourself on apartment therapy’s website, you probably spent a good amount of time cruising all the creative small space design ideas. Perfect for NY dwellers, apartment therapy claims to “save the world, one room at a time." At the show feel free to peruse  through their design books and home accessories. 

4. The Raging Bowl

        Original handmade ceramics and pottery created by Marissa Schooley are stunning. Unique yet classic designs make any tabletop, counter, or meal look great with each piece having unique characteristics. 

5. Aid to Artisans

One of emiLime's neighbors at this year's fair, Aid to Artisans bring a passion for cultures and  handmade traditions of the developing world with a commitment to building profitable businesses.  That's what we call a win-win situation!

6. Dolan Geiman

        Looking for that perfect country and urban piece of wall art to fill that blank spot on your wall? Dolan’s designs are versatile and unique. With varying color combinations and textures while mixing country ideas with urban materials, his works will definitely give that spot on your wall some “wow factor." 

7. Catherine Weitzman

Catherine is inspired by the elements of earth, wind, water, and fire. Her jewelry reflects these elements with elegance and wearability with the highest standard of craftsmanship. 

8. IsArt

IsArt is a collective of 4 individual Israeli artists that create a range of styles from art deco, to culturally influenced, colorful and classic silver. Unique designs that are reasonably priced. 

9. Ugone and Thomas

Returning as a top exhibitor, U&T introduces their new collection of lighting designs. Combining whimsy with exactitude, the custom lighting designs combine materials such as marble, copper, and natural papers. 

10. Sydney Cash

Sydney is an incredibly unique artist. His sculptures are the centerpieces of the gallery while his jewelry is elegant, modern and understated. Sydney manipulates light to move through the works  and creates "light sculpture" that will definitely catch your eye!

To learn more about what emiLime will be doing at the show this weekend, check out our release here and leave us a comment about the vendor your most exciting to see!            

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