Chatterbox: Blog Central

The idea of going back to school isn’t as far fetched as we would like to think. It’s only the beginning of August, and back to school supplies and clothes have already hit the shelves. Excitement, sadness and feeling overwhelmed are just some of the emotions that come rushing back when the idea of starting school comes to mind. But don’t be fooled, these feelings affect you as parents, as well as the kids.

With August fast approaching us, you start to think, “Where did July go?” Or more so, “Where did summer go?” We tend to be so wrapped up in work, family, our children’s events and finding time for ourselves in the mix of it all that time flies by us. But there is still plenty of time left in August to get in fun, cheap activities you haven’t done yet this summer while still enjoying the sun and warm weather.

With the trade show season starting, The Giggle Guide™ will be busy publishing many Trade Show Reports. Co-founder/Editor Leesa Valentino and/or I will be attending the following shows: ENK Children’s in August and October, Bubble NY, KidShow Las Vegas, MAGICKids, ABC Kids Expo, Kids on 6 LA Market Week, Dallas Market, and Vegas Kids at World Market Center in Las Vegas.

Overall sentiment country-wide is that trade shows from Atlanta to Chicago to Dallas are trending down in both foot traffic and written sales. But can’t we all use some good news? Here it is: Buyers, reps and manufacturers are still attending trade shows, planning for the future and working together to make it through a tough retail environment.