Exciting Finds at NYIGF 2011

I just got finished attending the 2011 winter NYC Gift Fair. There are so many designers out there doing incredible work, I thought I take the time to showcase some of my favorites.

Brasa Ventless Fires

I was excited to meet the entrepreneur that invented these fireplaces. He’d just been featured in New York magazine and is selling in stores like Design Within Reach. He realized you could use Denatured alcohol made of agricultural products to create a flame with emissions consisting of only heat, water vapor (steam), and low levels of carbon dioxide (CO2). www.brasafire.com I forgot to get the gentlemen’s name who started the business, and haven’t been able to find it on-line. He is a good example of someone selling from a product perspective as opposed to a designers, “story.”

Boskke Evolved Gardening

Designed by Patrick Morris these planters have a filtration system that gradually feeds water to the plant roots so there is no excess water drips.  Most of all, they look cool. A perfect marriage of form and function, the hallmark of smart design. www.boskke.com

Dolan Geiman

I met Dolan in the handmade section and was immediately drawn to his mixed media art. He creates funky wall decor using rescued wood constructions, panel paintings, and box prints.  He was open, personable, and friendly, and his personal style reflected in his work.  Dolan’s unique initiative program for new retailers promised he would personally plant 10 trees via carbonfund.org for every vendor that opened a new account. Check his website at dolangeiman.com. He’s a great example of a designer that has his head around personal branding and marketing.

Jewelry Designers

If you make or design your own jewelry the gift fair is a great place for you. I found some beautiful innovative stuff here, but had to remark at how difficult it must be to stand out in this crowd. There is soo much competition and only so many stores to sell in. I did recognize two young designers specifically from their social media presence. www.designglut.com These girls do a great job in making up for what they lack in experience with a strong on-line presence and well crafted story.