Just got home from a wonderful, little whirlwind trip to Americasmart in Atlanta to do some buying for my store. When work feels like all play you know you are doing something right. I love, love, love Atlanta, an energetic big city, loaded with southern hospitality. Traveling solo this time, I wanted everything to be convenient so I could maximize my time. The Ellis Hotel, a newly renovated chic, boutique hotel, proved to be the perfect location, just a 2 block walk to the Mart. After dropping my bags at the hotel, I was off to do some serious shopping in the 3 high rise buildings that make up this wholesale market.
I just have to say that this show never disappoints! From the minute you arrive there is a buzz of energy and constant sources of inspiration. Beginning with the 2nd floor of Building 1, there is the wonderfully curated antique area. I always begin here to be inspired with antiques displayed in a modern context. It is also a wonderful source of fabulous art, authentic antiques with patinas and distressing to drool over, and for me, coral, shells and natural elements mixed in with all of these yummy treasures. It is the ultimate combination of all of my passions. After spending the first hour wandering these displays, I hit the ground running, sourcing my list of wants, needs, new finds and favorite old vendors.
I came to market with 5 things in mind-
- To soak in the design and color trends, and see all of the talented styling and staging ideas – both in the showrooms and at the seminars
- To visit the vendors which I currently do business with and see their new product and place orders
- To source new vendors
- To look for new items which my customers are requesting
- To take back some new trending jewelry pieces from the Cash & Carry section
Three full days of shopping was just perfect to accomplish my mission, although a fourth day would have allowed me to go to Scott’s Antique Show which always coincides with market. I found a great new furniture line with distressed furniture and wonderful benches, was awed with staging inspiration from Cody Foster and Company, and placed orders with all of my favorite vendors whom I have found at past markets, plus I found a playful line of resort jewelry at the apparel mart. An observation for me was that we are getting away from the minimalism that has been trending, and that the eclecticism and layering is here once again as well as a saturation of vibrant colors.
What a perfect work/play getaway it was! Just waiting for all of that new, yummy product to arrive in Naples. See you in July Atlanta!
