Jan 22, 2013
A Prominent Miniature PresenceBy pmihalek

Last week I was quickly reminded how warm one can get walking (meandering) the floors of AmericasMart. Note to self: Next time leave the hiking socks at home. During my recent two-day trip to check out the International Gift & Home Furnishings Market in Atlanta, the event continues to impress me with new products, new companies and inspiring showroom merchandising.

But what really struck me was the nod many of the vendors are giving to fairy/miniature gardening — many new to the category. To be honest, I really thought the craze of this trend peaked last year. I was wrong.

In what I’ve been guilty of calling a trend, Garden Wise TV’s Arlena Schott would say, “It’s not a trend, because it’s here to stay.” Maybe she’s right.

What do you think? Are you still skeptical? Is fairy/miniature gardening still not a part of your offering in 2013? Email me your two cents at [email protected].

Also, check out photos from my time at AmericasMart on our Facebook page. From miniature merchandising to chandeliers made of dead branches, there’s something for everyone.

Deadline Extended!

Do you know someone awesome…in our industry? Are they under 40, too? Perfect!

Our sister magazine GPN is looking for the next 40 Under 40, Class of 2013. Click on the news item below to learn more about it and nominate that awesome someone. But don’t dawdle. The deadline for nominations is January 31.


pmihalek