I think the thing I like the best about gift shops is the atmosphere. Each one is different, and the best ones tell fantastic stories throughout. I will even stay and browse in shops that carry items I'm not particularly interested in if the merchandise mix is interesting and the displays are creative. Often the way items are merchandised gives me the push to buy! People love to wander through a gift shop and soak it all in.

So, my advice to you is to think about your overall theme and use that to select your merchandise and displays. Having a clear picture of your shop in your mind makes buying so much easier! You'll be able to sift through the myriad choices to find perfect pieces to help tell the "story" of your unique shop. GOOD LUCK!