It's Black Friday. After a precious day off for Thanksgiving, merchants view this milestone as the "starting gun" of the Holiday Shopping Season. The name, "Black Friday," suggests that (on this day) retailers go from being "in the red" to "in the black." This oversimplification is rarely true. But the anticipation of brisk sales warms the hearts of shopkeepers. These December weeks may help correct for slower summer months. And good sales during the Holiday Season will ensure that the merchant's investments (merchandise, staff, decor, supplies) will be paid-off.
While I've been a merchant all my adult life, I have worked hard to remind myself that bountiful sales will never be the season's most important reward. Yes, they help. Yes, I have bills to pay. But the Holidays—and, for me, Christmas in particular—will always be, first and foremost, a celebration of love: for my family, my friends, my fellow man and my creator.
Shown above, an English bridal leather wallet which zips closed on three sides. The vegetable dyed leather will become "burnished" by use and handling—resulting in a piece that keeps looking better with age. The zipper—which is not too chunky—gives the piece a light urban look. More Sting than Sex Pistols. Still, the look is a gentle reminder of the wild boy who once ran through the East Village on a Saturday night. Click on the photo above to learn more about it.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
To arrange a visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only), please call 917-446-4248.