The Biz

Get ready for NY NOW, the Market for Home & Lifestyle, which runs Saturday, August 17, through Wednesday, August 21, 2013, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 94. Overall, NY NOW, (formerly the New York International Gift Fair), will encompass 100,000 products in 400+ product categories. The event anticipates that 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries will attend. Our preview of discoveries includes mimish, Wash with Water, Funkins, and Kira.

Recently I brought my intern along to a client meeting. When we left, she expressed amazement at the scope of our discussion. “There’s so much to think about,” she said. And, she’s right, it is sometimes staggering to think about what goes into running a successful label. So it’s not surprising when designers become overwhelmed by the many decisions and tasks they must perform each day. Even for seasoned veterans and talented multitaskers, the fact is, you can’t do it alone.

Whispers of fall are already in the air, with the pressing heat of June and July beginning to give way to August. But while the seasons may be on the verge of change, one thing remains the same: the strong commitment of eco-conscious companies to the stewardship of the planet. Origany, the company that specializes in “Clothing Made Organic by Nature”, is already looking forward to cooler times. Origany is known for the splash it made by partnering with Ovie Mughelli of the Atlanta Falcons to create the Eco-Athlete collection. Now, it’s taking on the slide from summer to fall with the same passion.

“Itty bitty” brings to mind the tiny little feet of newborns and the sweet smiles from satisfied toddlers. It probably doesn’t bring to mind the grandness of an established company, but it should. Pavilion Gift Company is exactly that: dedicated to bringing evocative treasures to families and friends. Its Itty Bitty & Pretty (for girls) and Itty Bitty & Handsome (for boys) collections are studies in comfort and old-fashioned sweetness. From the coordinating bibs to the boxers and wearable blankets, Itty Bitty is targeted at grabbing attention and tugging at the heart.