Capture your audience

Showplace, showcase or showrooms all require attention to detail and design

By Marcia Blake, Outdoor Interiors, Inc., President -- Casual Living, 9/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

Focusing on revolutionizing the performance, creativity and execution of design is the key to successfully grabbing the attention of buyers, whether they be purchasing product to sell or the actual consumer.

The latest development in display is creating buzz in our industry. Some manufacturers have begun to appeal to buyers by offering an all inclusive package for the dealers, a merchandise concept that not only showcases casual furniture but adds a touch of romance with an extensive collection of design-oriented accessories.

A great example of this was presented last month at the West Coast Casual Furniture Premarket, when O.W. Lee Co. introduced three new collections — San Cristóbal, which embodies the romance of the Spanish Baroque style; Monterra which takes its cues from French Renaissance style; and Outdoor Couture, a customized accessory program of designer pillows, drapes, throws and table runners that are designed to enrich and define outdoor living spaces.

Buyers are seeking an emotional connection to the display, as well as an impassioned connection to the color collections. Creating an environment that reflects the consumer's indoor rooms is essential for a smooth transition from the inside to the outside.

Color will be fresh and tranquil, utilizing blue, green with a hint of turquoise, warm and enveloping in the blood orange and brown colors of Tuscany, and contrasting with black and white. Create eye appealing displays using color and accessories while romancing the furniture.

Tell a story and you will capture your audience's attention long enough to close the sale. Increasing sales and profits is essential to our growing businesses so step out of the box, create interest, romance your customers and offer them everything that encompasses the ideal outdoor living experience.

Shown at the West Coast Premarket, Outdoor Couture, seen at right, was created by Blake for O.W. Lee and allows retailers a customized accessory program to help define outdoor living spaces.