Atlanta

By Diane A. Maicon -- Gifts & Decorative Accessories, 4/1/2001

If you're looking for a fresh look, consider stopping by Present Tense in AmericasMart 2 (AM2), space 907. There's a myriad of casual tabletop items from which to choose, and a number of pieces also serve as decorative accessories throughout the home. Introductions include Flirty Coquette, a free-spirited cascade of color such as orange, a rich blue, shades of green, and a fiery red set against bright white. There are three new shapes, and new textured paints adorn this pattern. Dreamy Cosmic Giraffe, developed by a new artist, Tania Schuppert, is a children's design featuring a green baby giraffe decorated with pink daisies set against a night sky. It comes in a three-piece bowl, plate, and mug set. There are also a decorative square plate, table lamp, and furniture knobs. Nautical Mermaid, which can be mixed and matched with a coordinating pattern (how hot is that in the trend department?), is just right for anyone with a longing for the more relaxed coastal lifestyle. In addition, the company expands its "Bunny Garden" collection with a bunny-shaped pitcher, a platter and tureen, plus decorative knobs.

Brownlow Corp., 603-A AM2, expands its line of coordinated inspirational gift books, stationery, giftware, and gourmet items to include kitchen-themed accessories. Licensed artists Sue Zipkin, Cheri Blum, and Linda Grayson all contributed to the new products, including the Kitchen Tango recipe box ($14.99 suggested retail), a recipe book ($14.99), an address book ($9.99), and a recipe cards. Kitchen Tango features fruit, vegetables, and teapots. Tuscan Harvest has an Old World feel with rich colors from the Italian countryside. An apple cranberry gourmet gift tea rounds out this offering. The company gives buyers yet another choice with Served with Love, featuring a "distinctive French flavor" in a floral and rooster-themed design. This collection includes a Quiet Moments Darjeeling Gourmet Tea set.

From Primal Elements, 1621 AM2, a "Happy in Love" handmade soap has heart eyes, a wide smile, and a strawberry scent. It is available either hand-cut and wrapped-to-order in the store, or pre-wrapped in a 6.8-oz. size that retails from $6.50 to $9.00. Each product is also featured in gift packs retailing for $12 or $25 for the Color Bowl and Soap Gift Set.

Vanmark has a new showroom in Atlanta, 1410 AM2. Featured lines are Character Collectibles, Vanmark, Blue Sky, and the new Golden Leaf.