Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Palmer-Wirfs Portland Expo never disappoints . . . !



Happily exhausted from the Palmer-Wirfs Portland Expo show

(temperatures climbing to nearly 100 degrees!),

we've arrived safely home in Bellingham--greeted by comfortable weather

conditions around 70 degrees (we're soooo spoiled!!).



It's difficult to gauge how successful any show is going to be in

challenging economic times. I'm always tremendously grateful to

have a show that doesn't land me in the dog house.

Palmer-Wirfs Portland Expo certainly brought in the crowds!!



The buying public was a bit more reserved than in previous shows,

and--thank goodness--they were buying!!

Having said that, customers "just looking" at either merchandise

itself--or trying to determine

market values for something they own--does not help dealers afford

to return year after year. Purchases are absolutely essential.

Demands of customers have changed, both in terms of perceived financial

"value" of an item, as well as the desirability of the merchandise

itself . . . leaving many hard-working dealers with inventory

that may not meet the criteria of the new--increasingly younger--buying public.



This is a new "dance partner" . . . for both dealer and customer, and we

have to communicate and be fair with each other in seeking ways

to have our needs met. This is not "business as usual" for any of us, that's for sure.

But the challenge is exciting and keeps us fresh!



There is a new balance evolving, but it feels very much like walking a tight-rope

at times. Being just a bit *scared* keeps us on our toes, right?!



Many cultural, technical and political changes are certainly stirring the pot.

But humanity has shown tremendous resiliance, creativity and

drive over the years . . . the present being no exception.



It's easy to get discouraged . . . not knowing what the next right

step might be. It's important to remember the singular characteristic

that binds us to each other in this industry: PASSION!!



But passion is a two-sided coin (like love); and sometimes our interests

may collide--where creative jealousies and competition rule, instead of

mutual collaboration and sharing.



Hey, it's human--but we're all on the same, ultimate path. Soooo . . .



. . . like this beautiful customer, let's ENJOY that path together!!!

I thank each and every one of you for stopping by my booth--if only

to say hello. We share space on this amazing earth and are so blessed to be doing so!

THANK YOU Portland for another great show!!!

* * * *

xoxo Debi


10 comments:

Carol Bennett said...

Great pictures of the show. Thanks for sharing them! Hope the show was financially and emotionally successful for you!!
Carol

Dandelion and Daisy said...

Atleast, you recognize that "times they are a changin". I see a lot of dealers who just don't get it. The younger buyer doesn't seem to be into collecting for the sake of collecting and they aren't decorating with "antiques" like we did. It is hard to change, I don't think our mutual friend would have been able to, but if you aren't sellin' what they are buyin'.....your won't be in business long. Hope you made expenses and more and can't wait for October Expo!

Unknown said...

You're right Deb...It's all about the "passion" and working to stay relevant. So happy you had a good show!
deb @ Garden Party ;)

Summerland Style said...

I hear ya Deb! I am constantly amazed at your displaymanship & eye for the fantastic. Your passion shows!

Candylei said...

Wonderful pictures for us to look at and dream about! NEAT!

Debbie~ said...

Hey Deb, great post! I wish I could have gone, your booth pictures look AwEsOmE! Debbie @ Cottage Hann~Me~Downs

Junebug Furniture and Design said...

Deb,
Great post!! Thanks for sharing the gorgeous photos, your display designs are amazing!! xo Cel & Glad/Junebug Designs

BuNgAlOw BaY said...

Perfectly put! You Rock :) and I love the new banner pic ~ see ya soon ~

krys kirkpatrick said...

Yes, I think you are right. Evolve and change. People will feed off of your energy. Positive and excited, loving what you do...all this will transcend into what you collect, what you sell and attract as buyers. Great pictures, and I can tell you are one who attracts people with your positive outlook.

Chris Palmer said...

As the producer of a show, our highest hopes are for the success of our dealers. Debi definitely made her booth stand out, both with her beautiful ORMOLULU sign and the amazing contents that she worked very hard to bring to her customers. She's definitely a star to us with the right attitude, merch and she even markets herself! We wish we could clone her. Christine Palmer