REAs tonight

This is it...the big night. The Retailer Excellence Awards are at the Marriott Marquis this evening, during which the GHTA (Gift and Home Trade Association) will accept the coveted Industry Achievement award. As a member of the Board of Directors, my enthusiasm might be just a titsch high on the Bubbling Over scale.

This is the fifth time I’ve attended-—twice as an award recipient, once as an award presenter. Best part is the crowd, comprised of the smartest, most plugged-in folks in the gift industry. It never fails that by night’s end, my mind is wheeling with creative ideas, my pocket is full of new contacts, and my juices are flowing toward ways to further promote my consulting clients. Now tell me, what’s better than that?

...and next, some good news.

Yesterday’s shocker about the GLM layoffs was followed by a happier news blast today when finalists were announced for the upcoming Retailer Excellence Awards. Much to my joy and surprise, the Gift and Home Trade Association has been designated the recipient of the prestigious Industry Achievement Award. Not bad for a group that’s only been around for four years.

Needless to say, I was emailing my fellow Board members and Retail Advisory Board members lickety split.

Now...what to wear to the August ceremony...?