Nuts & Bolts: Las Vegas Market 2023
February 17, 2023
Nuts & Bolts – Las Vegas Market 2023
I’d like to share my trip report from the Las Vegas Market show on 1/28-1/29.
First, if you have never been to Las Vegas let me tell you, it’s over the top, dramatic and so extra! I have been many times and it’s always a feast for the eyes.I enjoyed the bonus of being there while the Chinese New Year decor was still in full force. There is no expense spared on decor in this town.
This image of Liberace really caught my eye, featured at the Conrad Hotel at Resorts World. I found it wonderfully coincidental that it was red and gold complimenting the rich colors of the Chinese New Year.
It has been a while since I’ve attended a tradeshow. It was energizing to be in the middle of the buzz and among so many inspiring creators and hopeful entrepreneurs. I forgot how exhausting trade shows are but so worth the effort.
Although the LVMarket is primarily a home goods and decor show, there was a small contingency representing the Stationery category. Here are a few card designers that I met that would be right at home at GCU. Perhaps we’ll be welcome them to our community!
– 2MyHero – Hannah Hurley – niche cards licensed for all of the US military branches
–Sun Day – Alan Kellman – hundred of everyday humor cards
– Near Modern Disaster – Sam Kramer – fun fonts and LOLs
– Just Art – Lis Gerber – simple expressions and puns
My takeaways of noteworthy trends at the show:
COLORS:
– natural color palette, southwestern tones
– high contrast with very dark / black backgrounds
– pop of bold neon (fits with Viva Magenta) magenta, orange, mustard yellow
STYLES:
– predictable patterns but in fresh color combos – plaid
– stacked books, stamps & postage indicias
– Matisse inspired – doodles, squiggles, colorful shapes
– gnomes, woodland creatures, mushrooms and botanicals
– clean minimalist with focus on typography
– reclaimed, vintage, apothecary
TRENDS & MESSAGES:
– beauty for men or gender neutral
– positivity, empowering and encouraging vs snarky
– humorous observations on everyday life
– organic, natural fibers, artisanal, naturally & responsibly sourced
– pet parents is an emerging category
Looking forward to the spring I am excited to walk the SF NOTED show in April 2023, right in GCU’s backyard! Let me know if you plan on exhibiting or attending NOTED so we can plan a meet up! Drop me an email at Mindy@GCUniverse.com
See here on the blog about this show visit and a possible new award for the Founders’ Choice Awards.
The difference is made in the details!
Mindy
GCU Community Manager
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