NetworkN E W ST R E N D S | S A V I N G S | G I F T S H O P | P U B L I S H E D Q U A R T E R L Y B Y R E T A I L A D V A N T A G E G R O U P

JULY 2019

by Michelle Huie, VIM & VIGR Compression Legwear

What does it look like to be well every day? As a company focused on everyday wellness, this is something my team and I talk about often.When I started VIM & VIGR, I was struggling with an aspect of my health - achy, tired legs after long days traveling for my job. Since I found compression socks as a solution, I’ve been highly motivated by the idea of making everyday wellness accessible to everyone - no matter your age, location, occupation or present state.

Everyday wellness doesn’t happen by itself. In our fast-paced society, we have to be intentional about our health - physically, mentally and emotionally. The very definition of wellness speaks to this pursuit: the quality or state of being in good health, especially as an actively sought goal.

It’s important to note that wellness looks different for everyone. While I might need a high level of social stimulation to feel balanced, you might require a daily break from interaction. There are as many definitions of “being well” as there are people reading this article.

That said, there are common themes in how to cultivate a healthy lifestyle. As many of us prepare to enter trade show season and our customers prepare for busy summers of fun and travel, wellness is a timely topic. I’ve put together some of my favorite personal strategies for living a balanced, healthy life – whether I’m on the road, on vacation or at work.

EMBRACE THE EBB & FLOWFor many of us - as managers/owners of thriving businesses or busy volunteers - the idea of drawing a clear line between work and the rest of “life” isn’t truly feasible. Shifting my mindset from striving for the perfect balance to achieving a healthy integration was key for my well-being.

MAKE MOVEMENT A PRIORITYThis, too, looks differently for everyone - but we all need some form of physical activity to stay healthy in mind and body. Studies show again and again that a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to a whole slew of issues, yet our days often demand little movement! Focus on incorporating light activity into your daily routine - whether it’s parking in the furthest spot while running errands, setting a reminder to get up and stretch, taking the stairs instead of the elevator or scheduling a class at the gym - adding a little more movement to your day doesn’t have to be complicated or costly.

A CURATED COLLECTION OF PRODUCTS PROMOTING WELLNESS

VIM & VIGR COMPRESSION LEGWEAR (10%) tights are perfect for all-day compression that’s classy and comfortable. The footless tights feature a non-binding honeycomb waistband and graduated compression throughout the leg (15-20 mmHg). $25.00 (406) 493-6131 www.vimvigr.com

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Candy Classics recreated for today’s healthy lifestyles. Lady May Gourmet

Gummi Teddies, exclusively from CHICURBANO (10%), are a guilt-free, delicious alternative for those with dietary restrictions, as well as those who want healthy, guilt-free

candy. $35.99/12 pack (508) 277-2382 www.chicurbano.com

The authentic barefoot feel of DM MERCHANDISING’S (10%) FITKICKS

footwear ensures extreme comfort to complement a healthy lifestyle and the

pursuit of passion. Easy fold-and-go transport makes them ideal for any active lifestyle. (800) 548-6784 www.247dm.com

Sip your drink all day long! S’IP BY S’WELL’S (10%) insulated bottles keep your drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for 24. A leak-

free top allows you to toss bottle in your bag without worrying about spills or drips. Made of

18/8 stainless steel $12.50 (844) 517-9355 www.sipbyswell.com

CAIT + CO - AQUAMARINE/LUXE APOTHECARY 10% Discount | (678) 426-7716 | www.caitandco.com

Opening $300 Reorder $100

CAIT + CO is a family of brands that brings the very best to you and your home. Luxe Apothecary offers boutique, plant-based skin care products. Aquamarine offers hand crafted bath bombs with

unique and fun scents. Their products are made in the USA and 5% of proceeds are donated to The Lovin’ Soap Project!

SQUISHABLE 10% Discount | (800) 490-9784

www.squishable.comOpening $200 Reorder $200

Welcome to the world of SQUISHABLE, a collectible plush company with a reputation for creative aesthetics and high-quality products. Quirky, cuddly, soft and snuggly fuzzy characters to hug. Their trendy Comfort Food line - Giant huggable plush food - Tacos, Hamburgers

and even Avocados - is loved by “kids” of all ages!

introducing

GREENWICH BAY TRADING CO. 10% Discount | (800) 323-1209 | www.gbsoaps.com

Opening & Reorder - One Pack per Item

Since 1962, family owned and operated GREENWICH BAY TRADING CO., has been offering french-milled luxurious vegetable soaps and spa products enriched with shea butter, essentials oils and natural extracts in captivating botanical scents. They have created a fresh collection of

truly exquisite spa essentials to add a little elegance to every day.

Have you heard the news? BURTON + BURTON® has restructured their discount level for Retail Member Stores to 10% off list price. That means extra

savings for you all year long on trendy décor, holiday must-haves, and the latest in balloon designs. Don’t miss burton + BURTON’s exclusive new coordinating designs

featuring jumbo shapes that pair nicely with matching 18” foils.

burton + BURTON10% Discount | (866) 241-2094

www.burtonandburton.com | Opening $200 Reorder $75

VENDOR SPOTLIGHTGET TO KnoW...

Say Thank You with a ‘Sealed with a Kiss’ greeting card and heart-shaped soap from THE SOMERSET TOILETRY COMPANY (10%), The refreshing scent of pink grapefruit will make someone’s day. Simply write your own message and pop in the post. $3.00 (561) 237-2888 www.thesomersettoiletryco.com

FRESHPICKS

DOG SPEAK’S (10%) women’s t-shirts are made of soft 50% cotton/50% poly blend, so it will wash and wear very well! Soon to become the favorite T-shirt in the drawer; great fit and comfort! Sizes: S, M, L, XL & XXL $12.00 - $14.00 (866) 796-0476www.dogspeakcards.com

BE SMART ABOUT YOUR ACCESSORIESWhen you’re pulled in a million directions, it’s important to choose tools, clothing and technology that work for you, simplifying your life and advancing your health. For me, compression socks are one of those tools. They keep my legs healthy and energized and help ease the effects of the long hours of sitting and frequent travel my job requires.

GET OUTSIDE, OFTENFor generations we’ve known there’s something revitalizing about fresh air. Whether it’s catching a brisk walk with friends or enjoying a few quiet moments on the porch before the day begins, spending regular time outdoors can boost your mood and energy level.

INVEST IN RELATIONSHIPSConnecting with friends and family takes time and persistence - but prioritizing healthy relationships enriches life in countless ways. Schedule time regularly for those that mean the most to you - and when you’re together, put away distractions as much as possible.

TRAVEL SAFELYEven if it’s a short trip, travel can take its toll on your health. To prepare, I focus on incorporating healthy elements from my daily routine - like a nutritious diet, daily exercise and adequate sleep - to help maintain consistency. You can pack your own snacks - like dried fruit, nuts and fresh veggies - for the plane and long days of meetings or at trade shows. And don’t forget to bring your own water bottle ensure you’re staying hydrated (bonus points for reducing your need for plastic bottles!).

To really hit the ground running after a long flight or car ride, try wearing compression socks. They’ll help reduce swelling and fatigue, decrease your risk of blood clots, and keep your legs healthy and energized, despite the hours in the air or on the road.

CONSIDER DIGITAL MINIMALISMMore and more, we’re hearing about how our devices are reshaping our lives. Taking a thoughtful approach to technology is becoming increasingly important. Think about how to make the most of it for your job and to simplify your life - then create space to unplug. Set daily or weekly limits for checking your phone or watching TV. Perhaps leave your phone in another room in the evening while you spend time with loved ones or turn off work notifications on the weekends. To stay refreshed and creative, we need be intentional about screen time.

CREATE TIME TO PLAYIn a world where we’re constantly under pressure to perform, it’s crucial to remember how to play. Spend time figuring out what makes you laugh or feel young again - and create space weekly for that activity. It could be a game night with friends, trying a new recipe, playing with your dog - whatever helps you remember to relax and not to take life too seriously.

Everyday wellness is a journey. We may not get it perfect every time, but by focusing on small steps to improve our health - mentally and physically - we head in the right direction.

Stay Well!

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Nurse Bears knee length, closed-toe therapeutic compression socks from

CUTIEFUL (10%) fits women’s shoe sizes 5-11 and a calf circumference up to 17”. The

mild compression of 8-15 mm/Hg offers a graduated compression to invigorate! $6.50

(513) 892-9265 www.cutieful4u.com

A dainty pyramid focal piece made from an absorbent lava bead and genuine gemstone beads, LAURA JANELLE’S (10%) stretch

bracelet is every fashion-wellness lover’s dream come true! Add a drop of your favorite essential oil and enjoy the scent throughout the day! $7.00

(844) 366-6900 laurajanelle.com

The Little Book of Meditations from ANDREWS MCMEEL PUBLISHING (10%) is a charming gift book to teach readers about the fascinating history, physical and mental benefits of meditation, and the practical ways to engage in mindfulness. SRP $12.99 (800) 851-8923 www.publishing.andrewsmcmeel.com

A CURATED COLLECTION

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BONITAS INTERNATIONAL (5%) is pleased to introduce a new licensed collection by artist Anne Pryor, creator of Lovitude™, an inspirational story of Love & Gratitude. These beautifully bold creations have been called ‘visual blessings’ with powerful messages of love and healing. (888) 726-6533 www.bonitaswholesale.com

AVANTI PRESS, INC. (10%) has rejoined as a Vendor Partner. Look for their Vendor Introduction in August. (800) 228-2684 www.avantipress.com

Due to a lack of orders, the following Vendors will no longer be extending a discount to Retail Advantage Group Member Stores: CQ PRODUCTS, D & T DISTRIBUTION, INC. JANDALS BY PALI, EEBOO, THE FANATIC GROUP

VENDOR UPDATES

It is stressful for new mom to go out in public with their new baby. No Longer, THREE LITTLE TOTS (10%) clever signs are a great way to politely ask others to admire but not touch the precious baby. $5.00 (254) 595-0039 www.threelittletots.com

Be inspired to health and wellness with TRANSPAC’S (20% P1 Prices) set of yoga-loving frogs. One of the top sellers for Spring;

they’re great gifts individually or as a set for health conscious family or friends. $21.50/set of 6 (800) 449-9903 www.shoptii.com

All BEEKMAN 1802 (10%) farm to skin products are proudly made in the USA, including the featured goat milk bar soaps. They try to eliminate harmful chemicals while featuring botanical based ingredients in soaps and skincare products. $6.00 (407) 351-5656 www.beekman1802.com

Made in the USA, NOODLE & BOO (10%) products are manufactured

to ensure the highest quality and integrity. Every formula is

hypoallergenic, clinically-tested to minimize the risk of allergic

reaction, and dermatologist-tested for skin sensitivities.

$19.00 (888) 400-5454 www.noodleandboo.com

THE GRECIAN SOAP COMPANY (10%) goats milk and olive oil soaps, some with natural sea sponges built-in,

lotions and other fine bath and body products are handmade

with natural ingredients; Made in Southern California. $6.50 (951) 339-8661 www.greciansoap.com

FARMHOUSE FRESH (10%) natural and organic bath, body and skincare is Texas-made through and through.

They use fresh ingredients from U.S. farms to make 90-99% natural products that are free of parabens and sulfates. $7.50

- $15.00 (888) 773-9626 www.farmhousefreshgoods.com

The perfect yoga bag for any pet owner! Dog and cat lovers can stylishly tote their yoga mat to class with DENNIS EAST’S (DEI - 10%) Yoga Pet yoga bag! The canvas yoga

bag features dog or cat icons with zipper enclosure. Two assorted styles $14.00 (800) 430-5665 www.deidirect.com

Indulge in a blend of creamy Coconut, warm Madagascar Vanilla, and soft Amber with NATURAL

INSPIRATIONS (10%) new fragrance, Coconut Ambre Vanilla. Pure essential oils of mandarin and

iris meld with soft undertones of sandalwood creating a warm and enticing fragrance. (952)

466-7418 www.naturalinspirations.com

A CURATED COLLECTION continued from page 3

Focus necklaces from CENTER COURT (10% ex displays) offer a variety of

messages for what speaks to you most. Wear the stainless steel bar necklace as a

reminder of what you are focusing on. $9.00 (574) 273-8985 www.centercourtonline.com

5224 West State Road 46 #337Sanford, Florida 32771

407.268.4444www.retailadvantagegroup.com

USAMADEIN THE

SKINCARE EDITION