I’ve always loved New York City. From an early age my parents would shuttle us kids into the bustling metropolis to see Broadway shows, go to museums or just sight-see. As a teenager, my friends and I would take the three-hour train ride from Pt. Pleasant to see shows and eat at the two-story T.G.I. Friday’s. (We were kids from the suburbs – a two-story T.G.I. Friday’s amazed us.)
 

I still love Manhattan. I look forward to the National Stationery Show (NSS), not only because it’s the best time to meet the talented people who are the pulse of the paper industry, but it’s an excuse to spend several days in NYC in glorious springtime weather. 
 

Preparing for this issue, it was evident that greeting card and stationery manufacturers are ready to revitalize the social expression market with bold and inventive new looks. While vendors have been busy readying their new lines, retailers have been focusing on providing customers with the perfect mix of items that will appeal to their respective demographics. 
 

In “Seasons of Change,” retailers share with Greetings etc. the items that have been having the best sell-through. The one common thread was that these successful store-owners have realized – sometimes through trial and error – what products their clients are looking for. The importance of staying tuned into the marketplace is more evident than ever as we all try to acclimate to this post-recessionary climate.
 

What better way to find the items that you and your customers will adore than to attend the NSS? I know I am looking forward to everything the show has to offer. From the diverse displays of new products to the networking and educational resources, there truly is a full spectrum of opportunities available to help you strengthen your business. 
 

I can’t wait to once again be enjoying everything the Big Apple has to offer this May and hope to see you all in the NSS aisles. My level of excitement for the NSS far exceeds what I once felt for two-story chain restaurants, but I am sure you will agree that there is nothing that compares to the city – and an industry – in full bloom!