MARKET HAPPENINGS

Time: All show hours

Location: Booth 928

Description: Join INKED by Dani for a fun, free temporary tattoo activation! Hand-drawn in NYC, these unique designs let you express yourself without commitment. Whether you’re into 90s nostalgia or just want to try something new, INKEd by Dani’s one-of-a-kind, wearable art pieces are for everyone. Stop by to celebrate self-expression with us!

Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Location: Booth #1234

Description: Make your time at NY NOW truly unforgettable by crafting your very own custom friendship bracelet! Swing by our DIY Station to unwind, get creative, and design a personalized keepsake that pairs perfectly with your new booth buddy’s. It’s the ultimate way to take home a piece of the show and a reminder of the connections made.

Time: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Dates: Sunday, February 2 and Monday, February 3

Location: TBD

Description: Add a touch of elegance to your show tote with beautiful, hand-written calligraphy! Our talented artists will personalize your bag with your name, a fun quote, or a design of your choice, making your tote truly one of a kind. Whether it’s a gift for yourself or a stylish keepsake from the show, you’ll walk away with something special!

Presenter: JK Adams

Time: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Dates: Sunday, February 2 and Monday, February 3

Location: Booth 114

Description: Snag your custom engraved wood board with JK Adams. Rooted in nature and based in Vermont, JK Adams offered stunning wood products for the home that you won’t want to walk away without. Have your carving board engraved as a gift for yourself or a loved one and enjoy the presence of Mother Nature in the comfort of your home. Limited supply!

Moderator: Patti Carpenter – Global Trend Ambassador

Panelists:

• Mike Peterson –  Founder of Science and Design
• Eryn Oruncak – Designer and Founder of Elan Design

Time: 11:00 am – 11:45 am

Dates: Sunday, February 2

Location: Central Hub

Description: Discover how the cutting-edge science of neuroaesthetics and dopamine-driven design are revolutionizing the home, gift, and lifestyle retail spaces. Learn how sensory-rich environments are elevating mood, enhancing well-being, and creating unforgettable customer journeys. Whether online or in-store, see how these transformative design strategies are reshaping the way we shop, feel, and connect.

Leader: Patti Carpenter – Global Trend Ambassador

Time: 2:00 – 3:30 pm

Dates: Sunday, February 2

Location: TBD

Description: This curated tour, led by Patti Carpenter, an acclaimed global trends expert, will spotlight the international exhibitors and pavilions at NY NOW. You’ll explore a diverse array of global trends and gain insights into how these innovations shape the retail and design landscapes. Focusing on fostering meaningful brand-buyer connections, the tour is ideal for buyers seeking fresh, globally inspired artisanal products. It also provides opportunities to build relationships with international exhibitors and better understand the cultural influences driving today’s marketplace.

Presenter: NellyRodi, expert strategic consulting and consumer trends agency for the creative industries

Time: 2:00 – 3:00 pm

Dates: Sunday, February 2

Location: Central Hub

*To note: This presentation will be on a monitor.

Moderators:

Time: 3:00 – 3:45 pm

Dates: Sunday, February 2

Location: Central Hub

Description: Join Kelly Bristol and Angela Schmook, co-founders of Reps Are Local Too, for an inspiring founders’ fireside chat. Discover the power of local representation with “Reps Are Local Too.” Learn how partnering with local sales reps can strengthen your retail ecosystem, foster authentic connections, and drive brand growth. This dynamic session will reveal the benefits of working with local reps, sharing actionable insights for brands ready to elevate their presence and impact. Join us to connect with experts reshaping the way brands, reps, and retailers succeed together!

Leader: Robin Kramer, Founder of Red Boot Consulting

Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Dates: Monday, February 3

Location: In front of the Crystal Palace Registration

Description: Robin Kramer of Red Boot Consulting offers an engaging and educational tour as part of her bootcamp for emerging designers, providing an insider’s perspective on the world of trade shows. Through this guided walkthrough, participants gain valuable insights into every aspect of a successful trade show experience—from understanding the venue layout to effective marketing strategies and standout booth presentation. Robin’s expertise has also helped connect us with talented emerging brands, serving as a valuable bridge to foster growth and collaboration within the NY NOW community.

Time: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Dates: Sunday, February 2 and Monday, February 3

Location: TBD

Description: Add a touch of elegance to your show tote with beautiful, hand-written calligraphy! Our talented artists will personalize your bag with your name, a fun quote, or a design of your choice, making your tote truly one of a kind. Whether it’s a gift for yourself or a stylish keepsake from the show, you’ll walk away with something special!

Presenter: JK Adams

Time: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Dates: Sunday, February 2 and Monday, February 3

Location: Booth 114

Description: Snag your custom engraved wood board with JK Adams. Rooted in nature and based in Vermont, JK Adams offered stunning wood products for the home that you won’t want to walk away without. Have your carving board engraved as a gift for yourself or a loved one and enjoy the presence of Mother Nature in the comfort of your home. Limited supply!

Time: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Date: Monday, February 3

Location: Booth 928

Description: Step right up to our live artists and walk away with a hand-drawn portrait of you or your loved ones! Simply share a photo and watch as our talented artists create a personalized masterpiece. It’s the ultimate keepsake to remember your time at the show!

Moderator: Kelly Bennett – Brand Strategist & Podcast Host

Panelists:

Time: 11:00 am – 11:45 am

Date: Monday, February 3

Location: Central Hub

Description: In today’s ever-evolving retail landscape, buyers and brands alike face unique challenges and opportunities. This dynamic discussion gathers top thought leaders, retailers, and editors to explore the four “C’s” that matter most: Category, Competition, Curation, and Connection. From navigating competitive categories to curating assortments that truly resonate, and fostering lasting connections with key customer communities, our panelists will deliver actionable insights and real-world strategies to help you stay ahead in the market.

Leader: Helen Joffe – People Connector and Social Impact Change Agent

Time: 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Date: Monday, February 3

Location: TBD

Description: Transcend commerce and inspire positive change. This tour will allow you to engage with visionary artisans and pioneers who are redefining how business is done. Discover the captivating stories behind these brands’ creations, where innovation meets sustainability and craftsmanship intertwines with ethical practices. Witness the power of conscious consumerism firsthand and how your choices as a buyer can shape a better future for retail.

Moderator: Crystal Vilkaitis, Founder, Rooted in Retail

Time: 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Date: Monday, February 3

Location: Central Hub

Description: In today’s crowded retail landscape, the secret to standing out isn’t just in what you sell—it’s how you make people feel. Customers crave memorable experiences that turn them into lifelong fans.

Crystal Vilkaitis, retail strategist and Unreasonable Hospitality certified coach, will inspire you to transform ordinary customer interactions into extraordinary, repeatable systems that build emotional connections and lasting loyalty.

In this session, you’ll learn how to:

• Identify and elevate customer touchpoints

• Build a sustainable system to hold your team accountable for unforgettable service

• Blend in-person experiences with social media and digital tools to amplify your impact

Packed with inspiring stories and actionable ideas, this keynote will empower you to make exceptional hospitality your store’s ultimate competitive advantage—creating loyal customers who can’t stop talking about you.

Moderator: Patrick Keiser – Executive Director of Heart on Main Street

Panelists:

• Edward Nader –  Owner of Nader’s Gallery

• Jennifer Simoni – Owner of The Sunshinery

• Kathy Safi – Owner of Pineapple On Main

Time: 3:15 pm – 4:o0 pm

Date: Monday, February 3

Location: Central Hub

Description: Join us for a lively fireside chat moderated by Patrick Keiser of Hearts on Main Street. This engaging discussion will feature a diverse panel of seasoned and emerging retailers, packed with real-world anecdotes and actionable advice. They’ll share what they wish they’d known before opening their businesses, from avoiding common pitfalls to implementing smart strategies. Whether you’re a well-established retailer or just beginning your journey, you’ll gain valuable insights to overcome challenges, adapt to trends, and build a thriving business in today’s competitive market.

Time: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Date: Monday, February 3

Location: TBD

Description: Let’s kick off the 2025 NY NOW Shows in style! Celebrate with us on the show floor, where you can sip on refreshing beers, elegant wines, and a specialty winter cocktail crafted just for the occasion. It’s the perfect way to toast to a new year of inspiration, innovation, and industry connections.

Moderator: Carlos LLansó – CEO at Legacy Publishing Group

Panelists:

Time: 4:15 pm – 5:00 pm

Date: Monday, February 3

Location: Central Hub

Description: With Americans purchasing approximately $6.5 billion greeting cards annually—generating up to $8 billion in retail sales—greeting cards remain a powerhouse category for retailers. Join us for an inspiring Fireside Chat featuring some industry superstars and gain expert insights, discover emerging trends, and take away actionable tips to boost your card sales. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the leaders shaping the future of the industry.

Presenter: NellyRodi, expert strategic consulting and consumer trends agency for the creative industries

Time: 5:00 – 6:00 pm

Dates: Monday, February 3

Location: Central Hub

*To note: This presentation will be on a monitor.

Moderator: Kathryn O’Dwyer –  Ascendant Loyalty Marketing Consultant

Time: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Date: Tuesday, February 4

Location: Central Hub

Description: Discover how modern loyalty programs can transform your retail business, ecommerce site, or store. This session dives into cutting-edge tools, strategies, and insights to create programs that go beyond the old punch card model. Learn how to harness customer data, leverage apps and agencies, and implement innovative approaches to attract, engage, and retain your audience. Walk away with actionable ideas to drive sales, enhance customer experience, and build a loyal community around your brand.

Presenter: NellyRodi, expert strategic consulting and consumer trends agency for the creative industries

Time: 12:30 – 1:30 pm

Dates: Tuesday, February 4

Location: Central Hub

*To note: This presentation will be on a monitor.

Moderator: Amy Loewenberg – Director of Buyer Relations

Panelist: Beth Rich – Owner of Mix It Up Gift & Mix It Up Home

Time: 3:00 – 3:45 pm

Dates: Tuesday, February 4

Location: Central Hub

Description: Join us for an engaging fireside chat with Beth Rich, the owner of Mix It Up, an award-winning retailer with two thriving locations. Beth will share how she transformed her business by hosting creative, community-driven events like “Laundry Night,” cultivating a waitlist culture, and leveraging local partnerships to triple her store revenue in just four years. Gain behind-the-scenes insights, actionable tips, and fresh ideas for hosting impactful events, scaling creativity, and adapting these strategies to your store. Don’t miss this chance to discover how events can revolutionize your business!