Mardel Christian & Education President Jason Green, a CBA board member, said, "It was a great show for us" and that it "exceeded expectations."

Price noted that the new VeggieTales Crocs shoe was "the biggest hit of the show for us." "We doubled our orders from ICRS in Orlando, Fla.," she added. "This was like Christmas in July."

Bob Taylor, CEO of Things Not Seen (TNS) Clothing & Accessories, said the convention was "phenomenal." "I'm just blown away by how well we did in sales," said Taylor, who decided to exhibit at the last minute. "I'll definitely be in St. Louis for the next show. I can't wait."

Standard Publishing President Larry Carpenter said the company was "much more busy than last year," adding: "We've had tons of international business and interest."

Carpenter attributed the upswing in sales to a number of factors, including Standard's author event Sunday during the show that drew 250 retailers. "We had so many retailers say that 'we appreciate you doing this because so many publishers were cutting back,' " said Carpenter, noting that Standard also received a boost from releasing new trade titles. "The retailers were rewarding us for giving them a good time."

First-time ICRS attendee Annette Rajskup said she placed a number of orders. "There's a lot to take in, but it's digestible," Rajskup, who started Hanford Bible and Gifts in Hanford, Calif., with her mother in December 2007, said. "I'll definitely go to the next one.

"If I have to, I'll close the store to be able to come," she added. "We are not in this battle alone. It's encouraging to see other Christian retailers who are also here wanting to make a difference."