Hello Everyone,

I hope everyone is having a great time out at the tradeshows this summer!  I know we here at the Gift and Home Channel are gearing up for the NYIGF show next month which should be a lot of work, but also a lot of fun!

Did everyone get a chance to review this month's newsletter, Retail Insights?  If not, make sure to check this edition out to get the latest insights on what's hot for the Summer Markets, learn all about Open to Buy Planning for Market, and see the latest Trends in Floral and Home! 

If you have had the time to read our latest newsletter, let me know what you think!  Please use the comment section below to send in feedback on this month's newsletter.  Did you find the videos helpful?  Did the featured blog provide sound insight for your business?  Did you like Leslie's tips on how to make the most out of your tradeshow experience?  Or, better yet, have you used any of these ideas and tips yet at market?  Let me know by sharing below.

Finally, I wanted to let everyone know about my video debut on the Channel.  Now, although you have seen me around the site in pictures and on our message boards and blogs, I have not yet really said "hello" via our videos.  I must say, I am not the happiest of campers, being asked to be on camera, as I believe that should be left to the professionals, (actors, great presenters, sales men, news anchor men and women).  But alas, my video on blogging and message boards is up on the site this week.

You can check out my video here. Now, for most people reading this blog, you won't really need to watch this "how to" video on using our community tools since you are most likely active on the boards and blogs and have obviously found my blog post.  But for anyone you know who is new to the social networking scene, or new to the GHC site, this video segment will introduce them to the tools in hopefully a friendly and engaging way.

Well, that's it for me.  Until next time...

Happy Blogging,

Jessica