Caroline Kennedy

When you work in a business like publishing, where there are always deadlines looming, and in the gift industry, where there are always trade shows and other events that keep us on the road, carving out two weeks away from the office is not an easy task. Long weekends? Yes, although maybe not during the summer. A week? Yes, depending on the time of year. Two weeks? Are you crazy?

This trip was planned a year ago, when everything looked as if things would continue operating on an even keel and the status quo would remain in place. The timing of the trip didn't seem as if it would impact dramatically on any of the normal work flow or put an unfair burden on any of my co-workers.

Little did I know then that many things would change in the months ahead, including my role on this magazine becoming editor-in-chief.

Nevertheless, the vacation, a tour to Italy, was already paid for and I couldn't not go. After all, who could resist the lure of Rome, Capri, Florence, Venice, Milan and Pisa? Certainly not someone like me, who minored in Art History, and has always wanted to see some of the masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture up close and personal. Michaelangelo is one of my heroes!

Even while I was on vacation, it was hard to avoid two things: (1) news reports of the emerging economic crisis, and (2) noting Italian design and retail, especially the fashion, gifts and decorative accessories, while I shopped and toured. The news reports kept me in touch (but not too much) with the developing economic events affecting the business climate.

And the shopping? That's something I enjoy, so even looking at retail businesses with more than just a regular consumer's eye is a pleasure. It's not work, it's a passion. Being in this business gives me a greater appreciation for what I see, and I saw a lot of creative and inspiring stores.

Not only was the trip a dream-come-true, it was the best thing that I could have done for myself. It gave me a well needed break from my work before tackling the tough task of putting together this issue, Gifts & Decorative Accessories' State of the Industry Report. Back from vacation, with a mind refreshed and rested, and the warm glow of memories of new friends made and new places explored, I unburied my desk and dug right in. The results, while perhaps not the lightest subject matter, we hope you find interesting and helpful as you venture down the difficult path ahead.

P.S. For more on my trip to Italy, check out my blog: “Dancer in the Aisles” at www.GiftsandDec.com.