Conversations with Cindy: Back on the Road

Over the course of the trip, we packed in retail store visits, headquarters tours, a footwear conference in Washington, D.C., and High Point Furniture Market — and I came home full of energy, ideas and genuine inspiration.

The timing was intentional. As DMC sharpens our own AI strategy, I wanted to hear firsthand how our customers are thinking about it, too. I heard excitement, and learnings, from AI implementation at several stops. At the footwear conference in D.C., I heard sharp perspectives on the midterms, trade and sourcing shifts, consumer behavior and supply chain realities. High Point offered its own important conversations as we continue to expand our open-daily Design business.

But honestly? The highlight of the trip was the retail store visits. It always is. Here’s what I learned.

Business Is Good — Don't Believe Everything You Read

Most of the stores we visited were in the gift, home and lighting categories, with a handful of apparel stops along the way. Their message? Business is good. Many owners told us their results have been contrary to the economic headlines — a reminder that independent retail is more resilient than the news cycle suggests. And time and again, owners knew their customers by name. Relationships aren't just a nice-to-have in this business. They're everything.

The Stores That Stopped Me in My Tracks

Keith Kinkade of Kinkade's Fine Clothing was running a clever "Don't Get Caught in April Showers" promotion — a free Kinkade's umbrella with purchase. I will say, after getting soaked in the torrential (and much-needed) rain across Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi, I understood the assignment. Keith also mentioned he gives out 300–350 pecan pies the three days before Thanksgiving and cinnamon rolls before Christmas. His store was buzzing on a Wednesday afternoon. That's not an accident.

Gus Mayer in Birmingham, AL is something to behold. Beyond a beautiful apparel assortment, they offer luxury handbags, a stunning shoe department, fine jewelry, cosmetics, fur storage, on-site alterations and — yes — an on-site spa. A true one-stop destination with service that sets the bar for everyone in retail.

Kennedy Miazza at Martin Miazza in Gulfport, MS is celebrating 60 years in business this year, and they're doing it with style — featuring one of their iconic brands every third Thursday of each month with a 20 percent discount. Sixty years. What an accomplishment, and what a smart way to celebrate it.

Brooks Terry at Babcock Gifts in Memphis found his answer to customer demand for quality luggage in Briggs & Riley — a lifetime warranty that practically sells itself. He also does something I love: announcing the exact date new McCarty Pottery will hit the sales floor. Anticipation is a proven marketing strategy.