After a busy 2020, members of the Oak Street Business District have their sights set on another productive year.
A few members recently attended the Home and Gift Market on Jan. 6-7 at the Dallas Market Center. They went to look for new and exciting items to include in their stores for the new year. The market hosts different events throughout the year for distributors, and vendors can showcase their new products for the upcoming season.
This year was Grace Designs owner Becki Collier's first year attending the market.
"It is a great way for us to see the trends and buy for our stores in one location and actually have the opportunity to visit with the vendors and look (at) and touch all the products we decide to carry," Collier said.
For Grace Designs, since customers typically come in for custom gifts and graphic apparel, Collier focused on items that would make good additions to those purchases. Customers will soon be able to pair custom-made monogrammed jewelry and key chains with their purchases, along with lots of fun accessories from jewelry to wine glasses to cosmetic bags.
"It was also very eye-opening to see the many new trending products that were items that we are able to make ourselves with the unique equipment that we have, so it will be fun to do our own product development over the coming months," Collier said.
Julie Bolinger, owner of Winding Road Gifts and Interiors, is no stranger to the market; this was her fifth year attending.
This year, Bolinger was able to find three new lines of home decor and furniture for her store. She said she is excited for the big plans she has in the works for the year, and is ready to bring in new inspirations, ideas and the latest styles to her store.
"I am doing my best to find more options for specific customer requests, whether they come from our local crafters or furniture and decor companies," Bolinger said. "My employees and myself are always working to expand our product knowledge and design ideas to help all who come through our doors."
The market is just the start of what is to come for the Oak Street Business District. The group has also started to work on its calendar to create new and fun events for the community to enjoy. Up next will be a Galentine's event in February, with details soon to come.