The NY Now Show Summer Market: Celebrating 100 Years Of The Most Innovative Gift Items!

The NY NOW 2024 Summer Market made its way to the Jacob Javits Center in New York City from August 4 to 7, 2024, showcasing an exciting array of global exhibitors and engaging experiences. I was lucky enough to go to the editor’s preview on August 6th and mix and mingle with some of the vendors, all who were friendly and happy to discuss their products on display.

Renowned as the premiere gift, home, and accessories wholesale show, NY Now Summer Market is always a powerful reflection of NY NOW’s unwavering commitment to showcasing brands with diverse perspectives, as well as a wide range of values and cultural backgrounds. Above is an Indian brand of natural skincare named Luxova whose Watermelon Mint Face Scrub blew me away. (It was their first time at the NY Now show!) They do not have distribution here yet but you can check out their their products via @luxova_official on Instagram!

The Summer Market traditionally showcases dynamic brands across gifts, accessories, global and home design, luxury lifestyle, toys, and stationery, emphasizing the cultural richness and industry excellence that define the event. Above you can see the innovative tote bags by Quilted Koala. QK provided the bags for VIP gifting guests and often provide items for prestigious charity events around the world. I took this photo at their booth because I fell in love with their crushed velvet totes. They also provide cosmetic and toiletry bags for luxe hotels including the Ritz-Carlton. For more info, go to quiltedkoala.com.

The show floor always features an impressive range of exhibitors, each bringing unique perspectives and innovative designs. Attendees can explore a robust mix of domestic and international exhibitors, highlighting the world’s diverse cultures and design philosophies. Many items are entirely new inventions that are fun yet practical. Above you can see the main rack at the Seat Square booth–there are many cute designs and they are great for New Yorkers who do not want to sit on naked subway and bus seats. For more info on this fun but functional brand, go to seatsquare.com. My favorite patterns are the pink flamingoes followed by the pink martini!

“NY NOW is proud to provide a platform where diversity is not just represented but celebrated,” said Kim Mancuso-Telford, General Manager of NY NOW about two weeks before the Summer Market event. “Our commitment to showcasing brands that align with our core values of diversity, equity, and inclusion is unwavering. We’re thrilled to feature a wide spectrum of brands that identify with 16 different values, including Black-owned, disability-owned, LGBTQ-Owned, AAPI-owned, and more.” Many legendary New York brands are also repped at the show, one of them being the LAFCO candle brand available at many fine boutiques and department stores. Their official website is LAFCO.com but you can check out their items in person at Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s. You can’t beat checking out their amazing scented candles, room sprays and soaps in person!

Continuing its celebration of a century of excellence, this past Summer Market offered a wealth of educational opportunities including insightful panels, interactive workshops, and the industry’s most innovative products and latest trends uniquely translated into inspiring onsite installations. (These resources are designed to help industry professionals and brands stay relevant, on-trend, and informed about the latest developments in the retail sector.) There were even classes in natural skincare and home products. You can see an immersive bath pack with dried peaches and flowers by Selv Rituel above. For more info on this innovative line, go www.selvrituel.com/en. For general info on the next NY Now Show, which will be from February 2-4, 2025, go to nynow.com/market.

Article by anne241

Hardcore NYer who loves to enjoy the good life here in the Big Apple and beyond!