Archive for the ‘The National NeedleArts Association (TNNA)’ Category

Time is always a challenge.  Between industry trade shows, we’re all so busy . . . Then, at the shows, everyone is trying to squeeze everything into a mere few days.

Events, meetings and classes . . . time to spend with great friends . . . a moment to meet a new colleague or make a new deal.   The challenge has always been “how to stuff even more into the short time we have together.”

One of the things that’s come out of months of work by the by TNNA’s volunteer Trade Show Committee is the new TIPs program, being offered in Columbus at the NeedleArts Market on Friday, June 11, 2010.

TIPs stands for Trends, Ideas & Product Series . . . and is a major change in the traditional form of educational programming at TNNA shows.  On this morning, exhibitors will offer 30 minute sessions focusing on how to help retailers get customers into their shops to buy.

Of course, there are many actual classes to take at the show, as well.  But on Friday morning, Retailers can attend any TIPs sessions they want for $35. . . and with the Retailer Luncheon for only $25 more, it’s a real bargain.

The purpose of every session is to inform, inspire and educate our retailers.  I see it as an amazing way to gather a lot of valuable and practical information in a short time.

TNNA couldn’t stretch the actual time, so instead, they’re creating the opportunity for exhibitors and retailers to use this time most effectively.

It’s a chance to interact face to face, to hear the latest . . . straight from the exhibitors, the people who have their fingers on the current trends, newest products, promos, and techniques.

The program is already proving to be drawing attention and attendance.  Online registration has been open since April 6th, and already the response is positive from what I’ve heard.

So, if you’re an exhibitor, let TNNA know you want to participate.  It’s an easy and inexpensive way to reach your customers.  Deadline for you to sign up to sponsor one of these sessions is May 1st.

If you’re thinking of attending, it’s time to register now . . . If you’re a member, you can take care of it all online . . . so it takes no time at all.

There’s more going on at the show, but that will have to wait for another day this week.  When I have a little more time.

Online registration for The National NeedleArts Association’s June 2010 Market in Columbus OH is now available for all retail members.  Just click here . . . and “presto” you’re there.

The show takes place from June 12-14 at the Great Columbus Convention Center.  Education begins on the Thursday prior.

Isn’t technology grand?  There was a time you had to call or fax . . . or yes, even mail in your registrations.  The funny thing is, that really wasn’t very long ago.  In fact, TNNA still mails out postcards and various other correspondence to make sure everyone sees everything. The Attendee Registration Brochures are being mailed out as we speak.  You all received an email notice . . . Did you notice?

We know how busy all our TNNA members are, so please excuse us if we seem to inundate you with materials.  But the old marketing adage of “6 hits to make an impression on any viewer” is still true today.  Perhaps “truer” .  . . if that’s even a word.  It seems, because so many of those “hits” get lost somewhere or just aren’t seen at all because of the masses of communication we filter through each hour, today we need to add even more hits to that formula.

So, knowingly being redundant, we urge our Retail Members to go now to register. You don’t have to wait for the brochure.  All the information is available for viewing or download at TNNA.org.

And, if you’re not a retail member, you can register online beginning April 6th. . . which I’m sure we’ll remind you about again . . .

If you haven’t had a chance to take a look at the most recent TNNA newsletter, I urge you to do so.

I realize how busy all our members are.  All TNNA members, Retailers and Wholesalers, as well as others involved in the needlearts industry, certainly have their hands full  . . . regardless of the economy.  So, now is no different than any other time.

It’s even more important now that our members stay informed about what’s going on with TNNA.  The newsletter includes valuable information about the many programs and services the association offers, the structure of the organization, as well as the activities of the product segment groups.

The opportunities to be involved in the association and the industry are myriad . . . and as members, your involvement is essential to our future.

So, please take a minute to find out what’s happening.  Visit TNNA.org, log in, and take a look.You’ll be glad you did.

TNNA’s Yarn Group and Needlepoint Groups have both posted their latest, and most exciting, new designs, patterns and fibers, introduced at the recent Winter Show in Long Beach CA, on their web sites.

Utilizing the latest technology, each group has taken major steps to ensure the public has the opportunity to see these amazing products even before they hit the shelves.

Take a minute to check it out.  There’s everything from needlepoint handbags, dog collars and even elephant embellishments to be found at WorldofNeedlepoint.org.

The Yarn Group highlights everything from swing coats, to shawls, to bikinis . . . with lots of lace, fantastic color palettes, and breath-taking designs to inspire anyone who loves to knit or crochet.  You can even upload the videos to your own Web site if you choose (just go to Youtube).

Welcome to The National NeedleArts Association’s official blog.

We hope to keep you up to date on things of importance to our members and to other needlearts professionals.

First and foremost . . . REGISTRATION for TNNA’s Winter Show in Long Beach CA is OPEN!  If you’re a member, you can register online.  If you’re not a member, this is the perfect time to join . . . Although you can join when you get to the show, you can’t get the deal on the classes . . .such a deal!

If you’re a member of the Needlepoint Group, it’s time to sign up for your spot on the WorldofNeedlepoint.com web site.  We’re drawing more and more attention so you don’t want to miss out.

TNNA is also looking for members interested in hosting a student intern or apprentice this year.  Since we’ve changed the PiPN program to include two other options (internship or apprenticeships without the U of Akron coursework), we’re having many requests from interested students and recent grads.  This is a great way to re-energize your company, and get a little help at the same time.  Let us know if you’re interested by contacting me directly at bdirect @ columbus.rr.com (remove spaces to email.)