The mountains are calling! The Smoky Mountain Gift Show brings Tennessee’s largest selection of top-name souvenirs, resort gift lines, and innovative tourism products together under one roof for optimum buying convenience. Taking place November 9-12, 2022 at the Gatlinburg Convention Center, this presents a prime opportunity for all souvenir and gift shops.
Only in Gatlinburg will retailers have the opportunity to shop an unrivaled selection of new and existing lines and products from hundreds of leading manufacturers and innovative newcomers in the souvenir, resort, and gift industry. Here are just some of the categories you will see at this event:
- Nature & Wildlife Products
- Green & Conservation Merchandise
- Apparel & Clothing
- Home Accessories
- Lifestyle Products
- Gourmet Foods Section
- Lake, Mountain & Lodge Decor
- Made in the USA Products
- Souvenir, Novelty & Trend Items
- Collegiate Merchandise
- Games, Puzzles & Toys
- Holiday & Seasonal Items
- Jewelry
- Licensed Products
- Custom Logo & Promotional Items
- Personalized Products
9 Tips to Get the Best Trade Show Experience
Whether you are a new entrepreneur or a seasoned buyer with years of experience, here are a few tips to help you make the most out of your trade show experience:
1. Avoid the Lines & Register Beforehand
Make sure you are registered for the show and have printed out your advanced registration confirmation to gain quick and easy entrance into the show. Buyers can register here.
2. Save Money & Book Your Hotel Early
Book your hotel and stay using the Smoky Mountain Gift Show’s housing partner, Connections. Clarion Events has teamed up with Connections Housing to offer attendees deeply discounted hotel rates. Buyers can book their hotel here.
3. Pre-Plan Your Purchases
Be sure to visit the website and view the online product preview guide, exhibitor listings, show specials, show features, and more so you come fully prepared.
4. Walk the Entire Show Floor
You never know what you will find, so be sure to set enough time aside to walk the entire show floor. That one item may be your next best-seller.
5. Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ditch the fashion first rule and opt for comfortable shoes. Especially if you want to make the most out of your trip and have enough energy to enjoy the nightlife after hours, this is very important.
6. Eat, Drink, Shop, Repeat
Remember to drink plenty of fluids and make sure to take breaks to eat or enjoy a quick snack.
7. Bring Plenty of Business Cards
In order to make lasting business relationships, it is important to give suppliers your business card so they can keep in touch in the future.
8. Take Notes
Be sure to bring a notepad and a pen so you can take notes throughout the event. After you have viewed products and talked with the vendor, it can be helpful to jot down notes that you can reference at a later date.
9. Network with Other Buyers
Speak to fellow retailers about what is working and not working in their stores. From trending products to management techniques, help each other out!
For 57 years, The Smoky Mountain Gift Show has been the nation’s oldest and most beloved souvenir show. Come and see what everyone is raving about and keep your shelves stocked with the hottest merchandise.
The Smoky Mountain Gift Show
November 9-12, 2022
Gatlinburg Convention Center
234 Historic Nature Trail | Airport Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738