TNNA’s Registration area has always run smoothly.  Regardless, isn’t it nice to be able to walk right past the line and move on to the show floor?

You can receive your badges and tickets in the mail if you register before May 6th. . . which is, as just a reminder . . . only a bit more than a week away.  My how time goes by.

And speaking of tickets, they’re going fast.  The traditional classes and the TIPs program are filling up fast, and the keynote (and luncheon) speaker is drawing a crowd, as well.

There are other events not requiring a ticket, though.  The new Happy Hour on Saturday after the show, the new Needlepoint Showcase, Sample-It (which is always new), and the new stats about our industry to be unveiled at the special Member Meeting on Monday.  There’s a lot to do, and not a lot of time, so now is the time to plan your show experience so you don’t miss out on anything.

So, take this as just a reminder.  Register now online at https://www.e-offinger.net/tnnadata/ScriptContent/IndexRegOH.cfm

I know you’ve heard that before . . . “new” or “improved” or another of those bizarre advertising buzz words.

But the truth is, TNNA’s NeedleArts Market in Columbus OH, June 12 – 14,  is full of NEW.

It’s the same trade show TNNA members have come to count on, of course.  NEW products, NEW techniques, NEW fashions and designs.  Easy move-in, easy to understand instructions, easy registration and clear show information.  But there’s a lot this time that’s totally NEW.

To begin with is the TIPs program I talked about in the previous blog.  That’s NEW.  What I didn’t mention before, though, are the other activities.

There’s a new event (didn’t think TNNA could squeeze another in, did you?).  It’s HAPPY HOUR!  At the close of the show on Saturday (6PM), you’re invited to join your friends for a little music, a little nosh, a little relaxation . . . along with a cash bar.  Before you head out for the evening, you can spend a little time catching up on the day while it’s still fresh on your mind.

Tne Needlepoint Group is also going NEW.  At this show, they’re planning a “Needlepoint Showcase” highlighting the NEWEST artists and designs.  The Yarn Group has been brainstorming ways to make the Fashion Show NEW again as well . . . so there may be some surprises in store.

In addition, TNNA is hosting a Keynote Speaker who will also address the Retailers Luncheon.  Again, a NEW activity intended to give every attendee a little more . . . a little NEW experience.

If you haven’t already, I’d suggest you register NOW.  You can take care of it all online.

That’s not necessarily NEW, but it sure beats filling out forms and snail-mailing them in.

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.

I’ve belonged to the Knitlist for quite some time now.  Every time it shows up in my in-box, I take a minute to scan the topics.  I’ve found all sorts of interesting tidbits, some of which I definitely do pass along to others in the needlearts industry, as well as others who don’t know much at all about the art.

I just saw a post regarding a totally cool commercial, and just had to let you all know about this one.  You can find it at: http://www.masondixonknitting.com/

Take a minute to watch the other video about “the making of the video” . . . it’s even more interesting.

It’s not really about knitting . . . but I won’t ruin it for you.  Totally entertaining.

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 . . .

March has been an active month for many of our needlearts members, several of whom are garnering national attention from the media.

As part of  National Crafts Month, TNNA members Lion Brand Yarn and the Knit Kit both received attention on Martha Stewart’s March 9th show.   Anduin Havens, a new knitter and Martha’s in-house art director, demonstrated using Lion Brand’s yarn to knit up up stitch gauges.  She’s made the gauge form available on marthastewart.com.

As someone who knits while traveling, she also highly recommended the Knit Kit, created by TNNA’s own Barbara Barry.  Havens commented that she was even able to take it on the plane since it’s TSA compliant.  Although it’s called a Knit Kit, she recommended it for all crafters on-the-go.  Everyone in Martha Stewart’s audience received a free Knit Kit to take home!

See the video at http://www.marthastewart.com/article/knit-gauge-template.

Both Knitty City and Habu Knits received cudos from Time Out New York’s recently published “Knitting Guide to New York.” Both were listed as favorite shops to buy yarn in New York City.  Knitty City was also mentioned as one of the best places to take classes.

Puffin & Co.’s thread organizers and “scissor sitters” and Amy Bunger’s DVDs all received rave reviews in NeedlePointers.  Puffin & Co. was also highlighted in Kathy Paterson’s column in the March/April 2010 issue of Needlepoint Now.

Jane Pauley recently partnered, as she calls it, with AARP.  Her program Your Life Calling focuses on the changing of our lives, and the reinvention process we all face in today’s world.

Living longer, we have more decisions to face . . . and to make . . . as we get older.  Today, more than ever before, we are in the position to move through several different careers, and to find fulfillment in our day to day lives.

Recently Pauley interviewed Betsy Lee McCarthy, formerly an executive in the health care industry, who turned in a very different direction.

After living with constant stress, ten years ago at 57, McCarthy gave up her career and six figure income, and turned her secret hobby of knitting into a business.  She now travels all across the country teaching others how to knit socks.  She’s even written a book.

McCarthy is eloquent as she explains why she did and how much she’s enjoying her knitting business.

Check out the interview on the AARP web site at http://www.aarp.org/money/work/your_life_calling/articles/knitter_betsy_mccarthy.html

Time management has always been an issue for small businesses, and that includes needlearts businesses. Whether you’re an independent entrepreneur or the owner of a company, resources are limited and time always feels tight.

But everything still has to get done.

Now, with the advent of social media, small business owners are faced with even more to do in order to successfully market their companies.  But there is no doubt, these activities are a vital part of any marketing strategy.

TNNA’s Board Member Kathy Elkins, Retail Council Chair and owner of Webs-America’s Yarn Store recently sent us a link to a very interesting and helpful blog:

30 Minutes a Day Small Business Social Media Strategy, written by Mark Hayward.

To be honest, when I first looked at the page, I stepped back.  But I’m one of those people who just hate being told what to do or when to do it.  (I can never follow a diet.)  I also grew up in the paper age, and still have trouble reading long blocks of text on the computer, no matter how large I make it.

But, after overcoming my phobias, I found his suggestions to be very helpful for two reasons.

The “schedule” he proposes is a great overview of the different social media vehicles available. (Of course, I’m sure there are new ones on the horizon.)

He includes

• blogging – what you write and what you read (for example, a list of Needlepoint blogs can be found on the Needlepoint Group Web site by clicking here WorldofNeedlepoint.com)
• Twitter (again your own and others)
• niche forums (for example, the Knitlist and NeedleworkBiz)
• FLCKR, YouTube, and Facebook for both community building and business promotions
• Review sites (for example, Ravelry and Knitters Review).

In addition, his day-to-day strategy also gives you a comprehensive view of how these different vehicles fit together and can work together, and a suggestion as to how much time to spend on each.

He also includes links to more information on each of these topics.

All in all, the blog is especially helpful if you’re trying to put your arms around all this social media “stuff.”

Whether or not the exact time table he suggest works for you, he himself suggests it’s meant to be adapted to each individual’s needs and styles.

Regardless of how much time you think you have, I would suggest you take the time to check out the blog, spend the time to digest it, and invest the time into incorporating it into your marketing program.

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.

I’m writing this from the Embassy Suites Hotel in Nashville TN where TNNA is hosting the Needlework Market.  Hundreds of wholesalers and buyers are here, and the air is filled with excitement.

I just came upstairs after having spent a little time at the Meet and Greet, and can tell you, people are interested and engaged . . . The room is filled with people eager to talk and see . . .  and, of course, do business.

The hotel shows are really different from the large convention shows.  They’re more intimate, with people exhibiting their needlepoint, cross-stitch, embroidery, yarns and other supplies and accessories in their hotel suites.  I must say, the first time I came to one of these, I was a little taken aback.  All the newest patterns, threads, and more displayed right in the rooms . . . sort of like visiting someone’s home, or more precisely, stepping into their bedrooms.

But at these shows, needlearts retailers come to buy and take right back to their shops.  Not that you can’t place orders, but these shows are considered “cash and carry” which is very different from the “orders only” approach at the convention shows.

And, of course, there are classes, as well.  I had the privilege of teaching two marketing classes today which, I hope, gave the class participants a good overall idea of what marketing is all about, as well as some specific ideas they can use.  The “students” also shared their own ideas, which I think helps create those amazing bonds which tie the industry . . . and more specifically, our TNNA members together.

When I asked them why they came to the show, they all agreed . . . it’s not just the products or the classes, but the opportunity to connect with others who share their passion for fibers.  They come away rejuvenated and refreshed, and knowing they’re not alone but are, rather, a part of a big, welcoming and comforting community.

You simply can’t get that through any other means . . . no matter how much time you spend online blogging or twittering . . . Nothing quite compares to getting a real hug from a true friend and colleague.