Celebrations & Occasions 2024 - 40

Other design trends include classic typography and
deckle, aka rough or feathered, edges.
" Couples also love our specialty print processes like
Wedding Cake
Ornament.
Coton Colors.
thermography, foil-stamping and letterpress, " she added.
While wedding invitations are consistent bestsellers
for Carlson Craft, its personalized napkins are current
top-performers as customization reigns supreme across
weddings right now. " They add a custom touch to any
event, they're quite affordable, and they can visually
make a big impact wherever they're displayed, whether at
the bar, reception tables or cake table, " Schlauderaff said.
Wedding signage has grown in popularity for several
How should retailers plan to meet
the demand for the bridal and
wedding market?
" 2025 is going to continue to see growth in bridal and
wedding. Retailers need to make sure they are carrying
this category. So many retailers have done away with
bride, but I can tell you that they are missing out because
those that have a nice bridal area in their store are doing
well with it. "
- Michaela Martin, National Sales Manager, Totalee
" Focus on creating displays with pieces that complement
one another to make a visually impactful statement.
Today's couples are seeking items that reflect
their
personal style - mix-and-match sets, artisanal pieces
and unique materials are particularly popular. There's
a strong trend toward registry items that feel curated
and meaningful while also functional, rather than purely
uniform, allowing couples to build a table that truly
represents them. "
- Rachel Amy, Sales Director, Coton Colors
" In today's market, an online and social media presence
is more important than ever. Carlson Craft makes it
easy for retailers to be a one-stop shop for wedding
invitations and accessories, whether that's through a
customizable online store or by featuring our Wedding
Collections Boxes in a physical storefront. The key is to
take a consultative approach - knowing the product
and options inside out. Customers have endless options
at their fingertips, but what they truly need is a trusted
guide to help them make confident choices. "
- Jennifer Schlauderaff, Product Development &
Merchandising Manager, Carlson Craft
40 CELEBRATIONS & OCCASIONS 2024 GIFT SHOP® PLUS
years, including welcome signs, guest book signs, food
station signs and gift table signs. But Carlson Craft is
also witnessing traditional day-of items such as
guest books or favors take on new forms - think
signage instead of guest books and treat bags
instead of favors.
Another notable change in wedding stationery?
RSVP cards. " More couples are choosing to
include QR codes on the RSVP card that link
guests directly to their wedding website for
replies, " she said.
Because customization is so important to
brides and grooms, offering in-store samples and
customization options is key.
" Couples want to be able to touch and feel
the products. It's also essential to promote
customization options that help make their
invitations feel unique but still within their
budget. For example, we offer ink color choices,
wording
options
and paper
choices,
along
with options to add layers like pockets and
belly bands. "
GIFTABLES
As the modern couple evolves, so does their
approach to wedding planning and tradition. This
includes how they go about creating a registry.
" Gone are the days when brides register
exclusively for fine china, " said Rachel Amy,
sales director of Coton Colors Co. " Nowadays,
brides are more focused on registering for pieces
they love and will use daily. Because of this,
we're seeing them gravitate toward everyday
essentials like stylish tabletop and functional
entertaining sets - and even mixing the
classic fine china pieces in to curate their own
unique collection. "
Therefore, table linens are having a strong
comeback moment in 2024 and beyond.
" There was a period when this category was
often overlooked, but we're seeing a renewed
interest in how linens can elevate an everyday
Celebrations & Occasions 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Celebrations & Occasions 2024
