Megan Smalley
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You could call me an editor, KSU journalism school graduate, a wife, an older sister. But most important of all I am a daughter of Jesus Christ.
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Articles by Megan Smalley
Savvie's Blue Shell Boutique debuts on Solomons Island
On April 30, Savvie’s Blue Shell Boutique opened as a new coastal gift shop in Solomons Island, Maryland, providing the community with a new destination for coastal lifestyle collections. Owner Vickie Kite Milburn says her new store is full of resort-inspired fashion, unique handbags and accessories, thoughtfully curated gifts and a large selection of Solomons name-drop apparel and souvenirs.
Philadelphia Visitor Center opens Philadelphia International Airport location
The Philadelphia Visitor Center and Visit PA have opened a new location in the Philadelphia International Airport’s Terminal A-West, providing travelers with visitor information and a gift shop full of souvenirs from across the state. “This summer is one of the most exciting moments in Philadelphia’s history, and first impressions matter.
Dow Gardens opens new welcome center and gift shop
The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation has opened a new 22,000-square-foot welcome center at Dow Gardens in Midland, Michigan. The new space serves as a gateway to the 110-acre botanical garden, honoring a 125-year legacy of hospitality rooted in the stories of Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow, who built their home and raised their family on this property.
Heart on Main Street presents rebuilding grant to Webster’s Community Pharmacy
Heart on Main Street has presented a $5,000 rebuilding grant to Webster’s Community Pharmacy in Altadena, California, which was hit during the January 2025 wildfires in Southern California. Meredith Miller has owned the long-standing pharmacy and gift shop alongside her husband and pharmacist Michael Miller since 2010. Webster's Community Pharmacy owners Michael and Meredith Miller wear Altadena name-drop hoodies in the store.
Colorado’s new Lookout Mountain Park store opens after extensive renovations
Business is back in the Pahaska Tepee next to the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave at Lookout Mountain Park in Golden, Colorado. In late June, a new souvenir store named Pahaska Provisions opened inside the historic building. The new store features regional goods, park souvenirs, books, indigenous art, grab-and-go snacks, refreshments and more.
An idea takes flight
When people visit Oklahoma City, Plenty Mercantile is one of the go-to spots for gifts and souvenirs. The brightly colored store is known for its original finds, sustainable fits and a warm, hospitable atmosphere. Co-owner Brittney Matlock opened the store with the help of her mother and co-owner, Traci Walton, in 2012, in hopes of providing thoughtfully made and affordable gifts to the community.
Highway highlights
U.S. Highway 66, popularly known as Route 66, hit a major milestone this year as it celebrates its centennial. Even though the United States decommissioned this iconic highway in 1985, many travelers keep its legacy alive by driving the route and visiting famous stops along the way across the 2,400-plus mile stretch.
Event Network forms retail partnership with Tulsa Zoo
The Tulsa Zoo in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has announced changes to its concession, catering and retail operations by forming new partnerships. As of June 28, the zoo has partnered with cultural attractions retailer Event Network to manage its gift shop and pop-up retail locations. Jane Casanta, vice president of partnership development for Event Network, says the Tulsa Zoo is a good fit for Event Network’s portfolio.
One unique boutique
As visitors arrive at Majestic Meadows Alpacas & Boutique in Medina, Ohio, it initially seems like many other Midwestern farms — there are lush green pasturelands, some barn-like structures and occasional bleating sounds of sheep or goats in the distance. But as visitors begin either a private animal encounter or a self-guided tour, they often recognize that this destination is not your average farm.
Playful with plush
When park retailers find playful ways to showcase plush, it easily becomes a top-performing category. Many travelers come to the Red River Gorge in eastern Kentucky for its hiking trails, climbing routes and outdoor adventures. But for some visitors, an unexpected roadside sight becomes part of the experience: a giant, fuzzy Bigfoot lounging in a camping chair outside the Red River Gorge General Store in Slade, Kentucky.
Natural attractions
Many have dubbed Ohio Caverns in West Liberty, Ohio, as America’s most colorful caverns. “It’s very beautiful, naturally decorated,” says Ohio Caverns Manager JD Harshfield. A gift shop is attached to the Ohio Caverns Visitor Center. Harshfield says rocks are one of the bigger souvenir categories in the store. Several tables and containers show off natural stones, gems and minerals for people to take home as mementos from their tour.
Natural winners
The Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas, is known for its fun giraffe feeding experiences, a wide range of reptiles on display and its primate exhibit to name a few things. When Gigi Trevino joined the zoo’s team as an assistant store director through Event Network in January, she made sure that the gift shop highlighted all of these favorite animals and experiences with memorable merchandising displays.
Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show celebrates 20th anniversary
The Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show plans to celebrate its 20th anniversary this year as the show kicks off Oct. 6-9 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas. Throughout the show, attendees will see special 20th anniversary touches across the show floor, including commemorative merchandise, giveaways and moments recognizing exhibitors, buyers and industry partners that have supported the event over the past two decades.
Miracle Flights and Paradies Lagardere celebrate one-year partnership
For the past year, Paradies Lagardere has teamed with Miracle Flights to offer an exclusive airplane plush toy, Skyler, in airport retail stores across the United States. Since its debut, every Skyler plush purchase has directly supported providing free commercial flights for children and families traveling to access life-changing medical care far from home.
Seaside Retailer and SGN win 2026 Azbee Awards for editorial excellence
Medina, Ohio-based Breakwall Publishing has announced that its two publications, Seaside Retailer and Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties, have each been recognized by the American Society of Business Publication Editors with 2026 Azbee Awards of Excellence. ASBPE is the professional association for full-time and freelance editors, writers, art directors and designers employed in business, trade and specialty press. Winners of the Azbee awards represent the best of B2B publishing.
The Beach House Stone Harbor opens on Jersey Shore
The Beach House Stone Harbor has debuted as a family-friendly gift shop in Stone Harbor, New Jersey. Christie Schwinn who co-owns the shop with her mother Sandy Cohn, describes the store as a small shop full of “seaside essentials for the whole family.” The gift shop features beach toys, puzzles and games that customers can take back to their beach house, as well as some Stone Harbor name-drop shirts, caps and beach accessories.
Love From USA Group to open store at Orlando International Airport
Love From USA Group plans to debut The Neighborhood Market & Goods as a new spot for souvenirs and grab-and-go concessions at the Orlando International Airport (MCO) this year. The company says it expects the storefront will open mid- to late summer, with a temporary kiosk opening in June.
Love From USA Group to open store at Orlando International Airport
Love From USA Group plans to debut The Neighborhood Market & Goods as a new spot for souvenirs and grab-and-go concessions at the Orlando International Airport (MCO) this year. The company says it expects the storefront will open mid- to late summer, with a temporary kiosk opening in June.
Tennessee state park opens remodeled gift shop
Reelfoot Lake State Park has debuted a newly remodeled Camp Store and Gift Shop in Tiptonville, Tennessee. The northwest Tennessee park is known for having the only naturally occurring lake in Tennessee and its wetlands that are a hotspot for American bald eagles, according to the park’s website. Park Ranger Cory Hussey says the park had a gift shop for decades but decided to complete a major renovation and expansion to increase the store’s presence in the visitor center.
Little Libbie and Torchie debuts as new children’s book
To help kids take part in America’s 250th birthday celebrations, Little Libbie & Torchie Tour the U.S.A. has debuted as a children’s book to help teach kids about historic landmarks and iconic destinations across the United States. Jose Sepulveda, vice president of retail at Evelyn Hill, illustrated and self-published Little Libbie & Torchie alongside his daughter, Bianca M. Sepulveda, who authored the book.
Coastal Connections Conference announces 2026 speaker lineup
October 2023 Coastal Connections Conference The Coastal Connections Conference is bringing a wave of top retail talent to this year’s educational lineup. The conference, taking place immediately following Surf Expo, Sept. 18-20, at Margaritaville Resort Orlando, will feature eight educational sessions designed to provide hands-on strategies and actionable insights tailored to the unique challenges of running a seaside store.
Coastal Connections Conference announces 2026 speaker lineup
October 2023 Coastal Connections Conference The Coastal Connections Conference is bringing a wave of top retail talent to this year’s educational lineup. The conference, taking place immediately following Surf Expo, Sept. 18-20, at Margaritaville Resort Orlando, will feature eight educational sessions designed to provide hands-on strategies and actionable insights tailored to the unique challenges of running a seaside store.
Beach Bums Gifts & Decor celebrates one year in Punta Gorda, Florida
Beach Bums Gifts & Decor, a popular coastal gift store in Punta Gorda, Florida, is celebrating one year since reopening. The store, which was previously located in Punta Gorda’s Fishermen’s Village, closed during COVID. When owners Cathy and Bob Perry saw a storefront opening last year, they jumped at the opportunity and reopened Beach Bums at its new Laishley Park location in Punta Gorda.
Filled with faith
There’s something for everyone at all six of Dutchman Hospitality Group’s gift shops that are in the heart of Amish and Mennonite communities in Ohio, Indiana and Florida. Customers could easily get lost in these stores that are full of Amish and farm-themed souvenirs, rustic toys and plush, ornate home decor, gourmet food and locally made personal care items.
Trailside treasures
America’s national and state parks continue to dominate as popular tourist destinations this year, with people wanting to escape to these beautiful landscapes. The U.S. National Park Service reports that over 323 million people visited national parks in 2025, with 26 parks setting visitation records.
A coastal concept
Cuffy’s of Cape Cod is not your ordinary coastal souvenir store. Over the past five years, owner Dominic “Cuffy” Albano has turned the longtime coastal store into a go-to retail destination on Cape Cod.Located in West Dennis, Massachusetts, Cuffy’s spans 20,000 square feet and includes a picturesque boardwalk atop a pond and colorful landscaping that makes for a great selfie spot.
Styled for the shore
On Fort Myers Beach, Florida, The Islander is known for its wide selection of coastal gifts and decor. The 3,800-square-foot space is filled with everything from apparel to jewelry, drinkware, personal care items and home decor. “It’s almost like a mini department store,” describes owner Anita Cereceda. By far, apparel is the store’s largest category. For the kids, the store has plenty of stylish dresses, sweaters, shirts and pants.
The Silly Goose opens as coastal children’s store in Cape Cod
The Silly Goose has made its retail debut this spring as a new coastal kids’ boutique in Harwich Port, Massachusetts, with the owners’ vision to make the spot a one-stop destination for kids’ toys and gifts on Cape Cod. Co-owners Calista Pons and Allie Daigle hosted a soft opening of the store on March 14, inviting community members to browse the 1,800-square-foot store full of coastal-themed kids’ apparel, plush, puzzles, blankets and more. “All of our family and friends came out,” says Daigle.
Event Network opens two resort stores in Hawaii
To kick off 2026, Event Network has opened two new resort stores in Hawaii, with new stores at Honua Kai Resort & Spa in Maui, Hawaii, and Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort in Lihue, Hawaii. Craig Obina, Event Network district manager for Hawaii, shares that he and his team spent months planning and preparing for these two resort stores to come online. “These had to open within one week of each other. It wasn’t the ideal situation, but both properties wanted us to open at a certain time,” he says.
Event Network opens two resort stores in Hawaii
To kick off 2026, Event Network has opened two new resort stores in Hawaii, with new stores at Honua Kai Resort & Spa in Maui, Hawaii, and Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort in Lihue, Hawaii. Craig Obina, Event Network district manager for Hawaii, shares that he and his team spent months planning and preparing for these two resort stores to come online. “These had to open within one week of each other. It wasn’t the ideal situation, but both properties wanted us to open at a certain time,” he says.
All-American mementos
When the ball dropped in Times Square this January, a yearlong celebration kicked off across the country with 2026 marking America’s 250th birthday.
Curated, connected and essential
Museum souvenirs play an important role in generating revenue and engaging customers at a critical time for museums. Overlooking the Delaware River in Philadelphia, the Independence Seaport Museum has been interpreting the city’s story to visitors through its maritime roots since 1961. In recent years, that storytelling mission has taken on a refreshed view.
Souvenirs that delight and do good
Putting a spotlight on sustainable and conservation-focused souvenirs can win over customers while also helping the environment and others. When Beaches & Beyond opened a souvenir store inside the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center several years ago, both conservation and sustainability tied into much of the merchandise. “Our store is run by Indiana Dunes Tourism,” says Retail Director Linda Palko. “Our organization is passionate about sustainability.
Heart on Main Street plans rebuild for Bette’s Boutique
After almost two years of rebuilding and working toward recovery following Hurricane Helene, Bette Boutique is nearly back in business in the Biltmore Village of Asheville, North Carolina. The store was severely damaged by Hurricane Helene, which left visible water lines and structural damage throughout the Biltmore Village. This spring, Heart on Main Street is planning to help the retailer to return to its original storefront.
Heart on Main Street plans rebuild for Bette’s Boutique
After almost two years of rebuilding and working toward recovery following Hurricane Helene, Bette Boutique is nearly back in business in the Biltmore Village of Asheville, North Carolina. The store was severely damaged by Hurricane Helene, which left visible water lines and structural damage throughout the Biltmore Village. This spring, Heart on Main Street is planning to help the retailer to return to its original storefront.
Great Lakes Promotions announces new wholesale gift shows for 2027
Great Lakes Promotions LLC, an event company dedicated to serving the gift industry, has announced several new shows for 2027, including the Ohio Gift Show, the Great Lakes Campground Show and the Upper Midwest Gift Show with dates to be determined.
Bigger view in mind
With its beautiful, expansive views and miles of hiking trails, Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most visited of the 63 U.S. national parks. According to the National Park Service, just over 4.9 million people visited the Grand Canyon in 2024. Arizona’s iconic mile-deep canyon is a natural marvel that many people enjoy seeing at least once in their lifetime.
National treasures
For almost a century, Evelyn Hill Inc. has provided hospitality services and retail management operations to some iconic American destinations: the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Baltimore-based Fort McHenry. American-themed souvenirs are everywhere throughout these gift shops — Statue of Liberty replicas are plentiful in both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island gift shops, and star-spangled flags are on just about everything in the Fort McHenry gift shop.
Travel reports highlight rising interest in adventurous beach trips in 2026
As people begin to plan for their 2026 trips and vacations, several travel reports show that more travelers are opting for less mainstream destinations to beat the crowds. Both mountain views and natural landscapes are expected to be popular next year. In Expedia Group’s Unpack ’26: The Trends in Travel report, Fort Walton Beach, Florida, was the top U.S. beach on its Destination of the Year list. The company says search increases were up for Fort Walton Beach by 45% this year.
Sun and Surf Beach Shop reopens and grows after hurricanes Helene and Milton
October marked one year since hurricanes Helene and Milton hit, and Sun and Surf Beach Shop spent much of this past year rebuilding and finding ways to grow after the storm. The Anna Maria Island, Florida, beach store has become a go-to destination for beach gear, apparel and souvenirs on the island over the years.
New Mote SEA attraction comes with brand new gift shop
Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium has debuted its new Mote Science Education Aquarium (SEA) in Sarasota, Florida. Opened on Oct. 8, the 146,000-square-foot facility is located at Sarasota’s Nathan Benderson Park and is twice the size of Mote’s facility Sarasota’s City Island, which is continuing to operate as a Mote research facility. The educational attraction also comes with a new gift shop, managed by Event Network.
Wild winners
When the Detroit Zoo remodeled its gift shop earlier this year, the retail buying team refreshed the store with fun new picks that connected to the new feel of the store. Anna Pearson, divisional merchandise director at SSA Group, serves as the buyer for this zoo store, and she says she ensures that all the merchandise ties back to the mission of the Detroit Zoo and its community.
Wall-to-wall success
Offering classic destination-themed art along with intriguing signs can help destination retailers develop a strong-performing category with good profit margins. As the old saying goes, a picture is worth 1,000 words. When a tourist finds an artistic wall print or sign at a gift shop at the end of their vacation, that one souvenir just might capture the essence of their vacation in one frameable canvas.
Crane Point Museum & Nature Center revamps gift shop
In early October, the Crane Point Hammock Museum & Nature Center debuted some renovations across the museum, offering guests more interactive exhibits to learn about sea life at the Marathon, Florida, destination. To match the museum renovations, the attraction also revamped its gift shop to provide a consistent look and experience throughout the attraction.
Silver Streak releases Pawparrazzi collection
Silver Streak has debuted Pawparrazzi as a new pet line featuring pet charms, pet necklaces and pet collars.
Guy Harvey teams with Hedley & Bennett to release marine-themed apron
Guy Harvey Inc. has partnered with Hedley & Bennett, a culinary lifestyle brand known for premium aprons and kitchen gear, to launch an apron featuring iconic artwork by Dr. Guy Harvey. “We’re thrilled to bring together Guy Harvey’s art and the art of cooking through this collaboration with our new partners Hedley & Bennett,” says Alex Harvey, licensing and marketing director for Guy Harvey Inc.
Hartford Prints! opens expanded storefront in Hartford, Connecticut
A recent expansion and remodel has led to significant growth for one Hartford, Connecticut, gift shop. Rory Gale opened Hartford Prints! as a small stationery store in 2013 along Pratt Street in Hartford, Connecticut, serving as an expansion of an art studio and letterpress printing space she had been running for several years at that location. What started as a store featuring handmade letterpress products grew over the past decade into all kinds of Hartford souvenirs and gifts.
Guy Harvey and Groove Life launch new ring designs
Guy Harvey Inc. has teamed with Groove Life, creators of outdoor lifestyle gear, to expand their collection to include three new silicone ring designs for men and women. The Guy Harvey x Groove Life silicone rings are comfortable to wear as well as both flexible and durable. The patented, breathable inner grooves of the rings allow air in and keep moisture out while also providing a snug fit, perfect for active users and outdoor enthusiasts.
66 & Sunny Trading Company debuts as souvenir store
To help tourists and locals alike celebrate Route 66 and its history in Tulsa, Oklahoma, one local retailer decided to open 66 & Sunny Trading Co. as a new souvenir store in town. Located in Tulsa’s Mother Road Market food and shopping hall, 66 & Sunny Trading Co. opened in early September and features a mix of Route 66-themed souvenirs and Tulsa keepsakes.
An inviting little hiking store
Oregon’s Silver Falls State Park has a new shop in its Smith Creek Village for park visitors coming to check out the iconic waterfalls and 7.2-mile hike. Ten Falls Supply Co. is housed in a quaint hut adjacent to the South Falls Lodge & Café, offering customers a mix of hiking gear and souvenirs to commemorate their time in the park. The store made its debut in May after Guest Services Inc. won the contract to operate concessions at Silver Falls State Park.
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