Roman announces Spring Open House

Roman has announced its Spring Open House, building incentive into the show for buyers.  

For each customer who qualifies, Roman will pay airfares for two to Chicago and one room night. A minimum order of $10,000 in Roman and/or Cottage Garden product must be written at Spring Open House to qualify.

Christian Art Distributors purchases wholesaler

Leading international gift supplier Christian Art Distributors (CAD) has bought Brisbane, Australia-based wholesaler Harvest Christian Products (HCP).

CAD had been distributing its products through HCP—a division of GPH Society Ltd. in New Zealand—since 1985, “and it was a natural next step to acquire the distribution business,” said CAD President Chris Johnsen.

Dicksons offers customization program

A new low-threshold customization program from Dicksons aims to help Christian retail stores connect with churches and other groups in their local community.

The “Just For You” line provides promotional items, gifts of appreciation and fund-raising aids on a small, in-store display unit. Among the items on which logos and artwork can be printed are bookmarks, key chains, buttons, pocket cards and magnets. T-shirts, calendars and travel mugs are also available, with minimum orders as low as 12 items for T-shirts and 144 for postcards.

Gifts of Faith grows acquired line

Gifts of Faith is expanding the evangelistic Witness line it took on from Primus Source last year, with 30 new SKUs unveiled at the Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market, held Jan. 12-19.

Among the new items is a line titled “Witness Kids Collection,” which brings primary colors to the five symbols created to provoke conversation and provide an opportunity for Christians to talk about their faith.

Abbey Press makes eco-friendly stationery

Abbey Press has launched a new stationery line intended to encourage people to slow down and save the planet.

“Snailspace” is a line of items made from ecologically friendly, 100% recycled paper by the monks at St. Meinrad Archabbey, a Benedictine monastery in rural Indiana.

Originally produced as a fund-raising opportunity for churches, “Snailspace” was introduced to retailers at AmericasMart. It includes gift tags and bags, magnetic to-do pads and general correspondence, Mother's and Father's Day, thank-you, Christmas and sympathy cards. Scrapbooking paper is also among the 150 SKUs.

Band Angels maker comforts with new nightlight 

The Nashville couple whose concern about boo-boos led to an unexpected success is planning to add to the accidental line.

Tim and Tami West were previewing their new Band Angel nightlight at AmericasMart last month. Referencing Ps. 27:1 and featuring the same cartoon characters who grace their Band Angel bandages, the comfort lights are due in stores later this year.

Calypso Studios introduces Love Cross

Family-owned Calypso Studios brings to market its Love Cross necklace this month.

Available in silver, black or copper, the necklace features a hand-crafted metal cross with overlapping heart design. The pendant is attached to all-natural suede cording. Suggested retail price is $11.99.

Based in Richmond, Va., the fashion accessory and gift company was founded in 2007. and “creates products that encompass a relaxed and vibrant lifestyle,” a company statement said. Most products retail for under $19.99.

For more information, visit www.calypsostudiosinc.com, call 866-897-9648 or e-mail info@calypsostudiosinc.com.

Blossom Bucket expands Amish line

Ohio-based Blossom Bucket has expanded its popular Amish line with new pieces shipping in March, including the Bless Our Home Amish Lady (pictured).

Designed by Esther O'Hara, the line debuted in June 2009 and has become one of the company’s best-selling lines. Handcrafted from resin, the Bless Our Home Amish Lady is approximately 3.25 inches by 2.25 inches. Suggested retail price is $7.49.        

For more information or to order, call Blossom Bucket at 800-662-5923.

Luke Harding

Director of sales & marketing—inspirational channel

Gregg Gift Company/Enesco

With Easter fast approaching, what types of products are not-to-miss? Easter has a tight window for vendors and retailers to work in, so it’s important to limit selection to products that typically have a lower price point than equivalent Christmas items, for example. Products, books and music that specifically celebrate Christ’s resurrection should be pulled together in a feature section in the front of the store. And, of course, don’t forget the kids. Even though Easter eggs and bunnies aren’t exactly Christian icons, they are a pervasive part of the holiday and can be used to package items or elements that illustrate the true nature of Easter. Opening price points of $5 and under tend to drive some of this business. Also, when choosing items over $25 or $30 retail, try to buy products that have extended shelf life beyond Easter; this will help minimize inventory risk while still allowing you to offer higher-priced merchandise. Items that work for Mother’s Day as well are the place to focus when looking at higher price points. Be sure to mix in some garden products at this time of year. Gardening is one of the largest hobbies in the U.S., and your customers are probably hard pressed to find faith-based garden products at big box home improvement stores.

1. Jesus, “Simply Christmas” (Lighthouse Christian Products) $9.99

2. Faith (Christian Art Gifts) $4.99

3. Grace (Christian Art Gifts) $4.99

4. Cup of Joy (Lighthouse Christian Products) $11.99

5. Hope (Christian Art Gifts) $4.99

6. Believe With Coaster (Christian Art Gifts) $7.99

7. Hope (Lighthouse Christian Products) $9.99

8. Love (Christian Art Gifts) $4.99

9. Names of Jesus (Christian Art Gifts) $9.99

10. Trust (Lighthouse Christian Products) $9.99

List based on sales data for Jan. 1-31, 2011, provided by Christian Books & More Gold and used with permission.