It's Market & Inventory Time

It's that time of year, friends!  It's Market & Inventory Time!

Whit and I will be packing up the car and heading to Dallas for market this week. Market is such a fun experience but can be a little overwhelming and tiring with lots of walking. This is where I meet with my sales reps and see what's new, new from the lines that I already carry, and new lines to bring in. It's fun to see what the new trends are and it's always fun to see my sales reps. After being in business for 17 1/2 years, I've developed some good friendships with my reps.

Market is also a good place to learn something new whether it's about products, merchandising, or marketing. A couple of years ago, the actress, Diane Keaton, who had just published a book about using Pinterest for decorating, gave a talk. She was fun to listen to and I've always been a fan of Pinterest.

My husband, Whit, enjoys market as much as I do.He likes to call himself my bodyguard, lol. He doesn't shop but accompanies me in the morning and takes me out for dinner in the evening. The rest of the time, he entertains himself at the market by wandering in and out of the gourmet food area, scoping out refreshments, and relaxing in the lounge. He'll send me texts throughout the day with notice of specials and refreshments. For example, "They're serving nachos and margaritas on floor 6 at 2 pm".

Due to a lack of staffing at this time, Smockingbird's will be closed while I am away. It will also be closed upon my return for inventory:

January 7-13 - Closed for market

January 14-18 - Closed for inventory and sprucing up

On-line sales will resume on Jan 14th. The shop will reopen on January 20th or when inventory is complete. See you in a couple of weeks!

Happy New Year, 

Virginia