Winter 2023 - 128

ONE LAST THING
molds - so we have an exact
representation of how the mini
will eventually look. It also allows
us to make changes, even minor
ones, much more efficiently. We
can go through many more rounds
of edits with this shortened cycle.
We're not relying on shipping
samples, either.
Keeping the sampling process so
direct keeps our ideas flowing, too.
We can explore many more ideas
when it's just a matter of having
artwork made and printing them
" We just want to keep spreading love and finding
the perfect fit stores to enhance our brand. We are
committed to the mom and pop boutiques across the US
and hope to continue to be a unique gift throughout the
United States. We are also excited about expanding
our offerings to add more unique products that are
important to Nora and the team! "
-Janice Dayon Christensen, President of nora fleming
out - it allows us to be much more creative because
we're not going through the trouble and expense of
having molds made every time a new idea comes to
mind. Before, when it might be several weeks before a
sample was in hand, it was difficult to start and stop the
creative process - now it just continues flowing because
we can get and give immediate feedback.
It's really harnessing the best of technology
and marrying that with the creative process in an
international setting. We know this technology can
be used in many industries (medical, engineering) but
we're happy to have found a use for it at nora fleming.
What caused you to rethink your production process?
NN: Changes in supply chain and shipping has made
things more difficult for everyone in manufacturing
and distribution. We consciously over ordered from our
suppliers last year in order to guarantee that we have
enough product for our customers. It's been difficult for
cash flow at times, but we have made it through and are
looking forward to some normalcy in the coming years.
How are the changes impacting your design and
production processes and timelines?
NN: We are just really trying to stay ahead of the
game, making sure we have mini and base production
artwork at least a year in advance. It can get tricky due
to trends but we hope to be the setters!
Tell us about the process of developing new minis and
retiring old ones.
NN: New minis are designed based on industry trends,
what our customers request and what our team feels
strongly about. Most often we retire pieces based on
what new pieces we are bringing in.
For example, if we are launching a new beach themed
Above: The final stages of making the prototype for the
home. sweet home! mini, below.
mini, we most likely will retire an older beach theme
mini. We'd love to keep them all, but what people
have to keep in mind is that we have a limited amount
of warehouse space and love to consistently bring nf
consumers new and fresh products.
The loyalty of nora fleming customers is unrivaled.
What do you have planned for those diehard fans in
2023?
JDC: Nora has some very exciting and new experiences
in the making for our customers! She is thrilled to
be back on the road doing signings and meet and
greets. Her hope is to have even more intimate curated
experiences for nf lovers!
The Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer colab with
Hester & Cook has launched. Any more collaborations
in the works?
NN: Rudolph's popularity blew us out of the water!
We were floored with his sales and response! Stay tuned
for more exciting collabs!
128 WINTER 2023 GIFT SHOP® PLUS
Winter 2023

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Winter 2023
