Thoughts from the Summer Show

I had my doubts about the CHA Summer Show in Orlando.  Honestly, I didn’t think it would go well, and when I walked in on Monday during set-up I was a little shocked at the number of booths at the show.  But I was pleasantly surprised!  Most of the booths had steady traffic and several manufacturers I spoke to reported their sales per store seemed higher.

The designer showcase had a fantastic location directly across from the show floor.  We had a wonderful turnout of editors, publishers, and manufacturers tour the showcases.  Thanks to all who stopped by to view my table!

While I didn’t take many photos this time around,  I did manage to catch a few of some products that caught my eye.

My friend Eileen Hull, next to the display of her new line of ScoreBoards dies for Sizzix.  I’m so happy for her, and the dies are wonderful!

New “Grandma’s Christmas Soup” collection from Jillibean Soup.  As a crafter who prefers small to medium patterns (and hasn’t seen many of them in the last few years), this company is one of my new favorites.  And their accessories are great too.

Nunn Designs always has wonderful displays in their booth.  It’s just a beautiful booth to visit, and their metal pieces and collage sheets are downright stunning.

And of course, something from Prima, whose booth is always packed to overflowing with stunning embellishments.  They’ve taken their popular gossamer butterflies and expanded the line to include leaves, birds, and yes, more butterflies.

Of course, there are bugs to be worked out in this new venue.  And the weather, with it’s roasting heat and daily monsoons, wasn’t ideal.  Overall though, I enjoyed the show with it’s slower pace and time to see everything.  I hope CHA can continue to improve and keep the show going.

I’ll add some thoughts from the consumer portion of the show tomorrow.

Until next time…
C.