Gingerich Group - The Red Thread

Colour in Branding: Orange

Lauren Shirreffs — Fri, 18 May 2012 09:09:00 EST

Continuing this week with our exploration of colour in clothing, we take a look at vibrant orange. Not just for Halloween, orange is a popular colour for the hot summer months, as well as Spring, leading up to summertime.

Orange is flamboyant and chaotic, passionate and loud. It is a colour that explodes with attitude, fun and personality. Often this colour is associated with ambition, spontaneity and a positive outlook on life.

Often times, this is a great colour to use during economic times, keeping us motivated and looking towards the brighter side. Emotionally, orange offers strength in difficult times. It helps us to bounce back from disappointments and despair, assisting in recovery from grief.

A great colour to not only use in events to but to incorporate in the logo and branding of your company, always illustrating that you are forward thinking, ambitious, positive thinking and ready to rock!

The color orange relates to social communications and conversation. An inviting color, it is both physically and mentally stimulating, so it gets people thinking and talking.

Wearing orange during times of stress, or shock can help to balance your emotions. It can bring about our your creativity and willingness to embrace new ideas.

Companies Using Orange: Pizza Pizza, Home Depot, Chicago Bears, Phoenix Suns, Tropicana.

Colour in Branding: Navy

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 10 May 2012 15:48:00 EST

Last week we discussed the importance of the colour Black in marketing and branding for your company. In the family of blue, but a close relative to black, this week we look into the meanings behind NAVY.

You may think of police officers, the navy, or military when you think of the colour navy, and this is because it is a colour that symbolizes power, authority, confidence and importance.

Alongside the power in navy, and the confidence the colour eludes, it can also convey intelligence, sophistication and a beautiful sense of elegance. It is more than an accent colour, but a colour that isn’t as harsh as black, but yet carries strong under tones to promote your company or next event.

It isn’t a surprise that dark shades like navy and black are so popular in the trade; like black, navy contours the body and is complimenting to various body types.

Navy is conservative enough to be appropriate for every occasion, and brings with it authoritative confidence that lifts morals and defines your company.

Examples of brands using navy: The Dallas Cowboys, TELUS, Gap and the Chicago Cubs.

Importance of Colour in Branding

Tom Fung — Tue, 01 May 2012 17:28:00 EST

Last week we spent some time over looking the importance of various colours, and the role colour plays in corporate branding. In the weeks to come, we will be reviewing colour to colour, and hopefully help you make these crucial decisions to your company’s vision.

Black

Black, not traditionally considered a colour, is the most intrical and important “colour” for promotional and corporate apparel.Always a compliment to any figure, black can hide our flaws while accentuating our highlights.

It is one colour that fits for all corporate apparel, but is it right for branding?

Black is associated with power, elegance, formality, mystery but also death, evil and grief. Although suggesting strength and authority, it can also have a negative connotation in corporate branding.

Black is formal and elegant, think black Mercedes, black tuxedo, but doesn’t have the punch factor of strong corporate colours.

However, combine black with other strong colours like red and orange, and it can be a winning factor in reflecting a strong power image to clients.

Companies who have used black in it’s branding: Nike, Adidas, Blackberry and Sony.

Importance of Colour

Lauren Shirreffs — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:57:00 EST

In today’s North American society, it has been determined that colour can influence the human mind so much that in fact, consumers will spend more money if they are attracted to a particular colour. This is why companies use careful consideration when choosing the colours that will represent who they are and what they believe.

Many companies use the colours blue and green in their corporate branding. Blue symbolizes depth and stability, while green symbolizes safety and wealth, and in combination these colours make a strong duo of stability and financial safety.

Bell Canada uses the colours blue and white to display to the consumer that the company is stable, and pure, providing the uttermost satisfaction in regards to telephone, cable, and internet.

Pepsi Cola uses the colours red, white and blue, not only to show patronage to its country (U.S.A), but to show consumers that they are stable, pure, yet have an inner fire that builds their strength and determination (red).

Red and white are the colours that represent Rogers. This shows consumers that Rogers has a strong energy which helps improve their duty as a service provider, but white to show neutrality.

McDonalds chose bright reds to generate extremem excitement into their environment. Red and yellow are not complimentary, and both create an impression when standing alone, leaving a take away for the client and a lasting impression on consumers.

Colours and branding play an important role in the future and successful progression of your company. While on the golf course, and in the corporate culture, colours unifies a team and lends an identity to a workplace.

What are YOU corporate colours, and why? Tweet at us @gingerichgroup

Please check back with us, as we continue to explore the importance and relevance in colours for marketing, branding and corporate apparel.

Accessories

Lauren Shirreffs — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 17:09:00 EST

When most people think of accessories, they think of girlie hair ties, bracelets and earrings, or airport shops with tacky ties and a plethora of $10 pashmina scarves. However, at the Gingerich Group, we know that quality accessories actually mean so much more; they can add value, visual unity, and appreciation for your staff when used for events or incentive programs.

Finding the appropriate accessories for the office place is essential. The classy understated look of less is more, or the signature eye catching piece, can work wonders on projecting your image and boosting your confidence in the boardroom.

Whether you are looking exclusively at our Skagen Denmark watch and sunglass collections, or our Knirps umbrellas or Swiss Gear/Roots bags, promotional merchandise is an essential part of your branding, and when you want to stand out with more than a brightly coloured lanyard at an event, choose quality accessories that carry their own wow factor without having to feature the flashing lights or gimmicks that can be present at promotional events.

It is the little things.

Details are the things people notice at your event, from gift bags to minor touches like buttons, every little detail paints a big picture on the effort, the message and the overall memory of your upcoming event. Perception is a large factor in attracting and maintaining clients, offering these details with a higher perceived value will always set you apart from the competition.

At the Gingerich Group, we help remind you of these little details, and how they can play into your events to help voice your message and project your corporate branding in an effective and stylish way. Offering brands with quality and market value remains at the forefront of our corporate strategy.

Watches, Sunglasses, Umbrellas, Buttons, chic polo’s and cardigans… we have what you are looking for.

Spring, Summer and Crazy Weather

Lauren Shirreffs — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 11:37:00 EST

What does unpredictable weather mean?

Well, it means our fashion sense can sometimes be in a state of flux. One day it is 27 degrees Celsius, AND the next day the weather people are predicting snowstorms.

The best way to prepare yourself for anything Mother Nature throws our way, is to keep layering pieces as a staple in your wardrobe. Also, be sure to keep an umbrella nearby. With all the different styles and sizes, an umbrella actually makes a nice accessory to your outfit.

Unpredictable weather does not have to mean bad style. Be prepared!

James Harvest has some beautiful outdoor pieces and 3 in ones to take you from cold chills to light breezes. Also, the assortment in active wear will be the perfect corporate statement during your next charity event or marathon.

Cutter & Buck is a Canadian tradition, with offerings of high quality and brilliant design. Light sweaters, crisp polo’s and cardigans perfect for the changing temperatures. Also, while travelling in the summer months, you can never go wrong with tying your favourite cardigan around your waist, or across your shoulders in preparation for any weather ahead.

Popular world-renowned Knirps umbrellas are always a stylish fashion accessory to pair with both corporate fashion and leisure wear. You cannot go wrong with the perfect umbrella, and can laugh in the face of sudden London-esque downpour.

Fashion without function, is good looking without sense. We think you are the whole package. Call us today!

Business Casual

Lauren Shirreffs — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 09:27:00 EST

DO’s and Don’t in the office place

Obviously we know, you can’t wear a Hawaiian shirt around the office place (thank goodness!), but the rules for casual dressing seems to have changed in every occupation.

For creative agencies, casual Fridays are a way of the past, and casual everyday is more likely. Pressed shirts, golf shirts, crisp dark jeans or slacks, and sundresses paired with a blazer, are likely to be worn in the creative offices these days.

In a traditional office space, rules can still be in place, but are definitely more lax.

Quality garments always have more wear, last longer, and fit your silhouette better, therefore saving money in the long run. Also, you never want to be too revealing in the office space and compromise your credibility. Always choose figure flattering, but professional options, will jut highlight your assets and increase your confidence.

Men do’s:

-       Wear a suit jacket or blazer

-       Iron your dress shirt

-       Keep you hair and nails neat and cleaned

Men do NOT:

-       Distract from your appearance with over powering cologne

-       Wear pants that are too short in length

-       Wear ankle socks with a dark coloured suit

Women do’s:

-       Wear shoes you know you can walk in for a full day

-       Wear natural looking make up

-       Wear light and appropriate jewelry

Women do NOT:

-       Wear low cut, or revealing dress shirts

-       Wear appropriate length skirts

-       Be weary of how much perfume you put on

And you are set! We are sure you know the basics, but sometimes in a world where we voice our opinions on twitter, wear ripped jeans to dinner and walk or dogs everywhere, it never helps to have a refresher!

OR come on down and "LIKE" our FB page:

http://www.facebook.com/GingerichGroup

Skagen Denmark Sunglasses

Lauren Shirreffs — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 10:04:00 EST

Since 1989, Skagen Denmark has been working to develop and perfect not just a line of watches, but a lifestyle brand. And althought we can’ts say enough about their classic watches, with Spring on the way, we have sunglasses on the mind.

Last week, Charmaine and myself could not resist any longer, we are both sporting our favourite looks for Springtime, and so should you!

Now, I believe choosing the right sunglasses for your face is as important, as say… a haircut. The wrong pair for your face can highlight the features that look best subdued, while the right pair of cool shades can frame your face and accentuate your already lovely face.

Facial geometry is important to understand when you are picking a pair for your face. The main face shapes can include Oval, Square, Inverted Triangle, and Round.

“To find your best shape of sunglasses, try to flatter your features by balancing them out with the shape of your sunglasses. In other words, whatever the shape of your face is, wear the opposite shape of sunglasses. For example if you have a round face you should wear square or rectangular shaped sunglasses and if you have a square face you should wear rounded sunglasses.”- bit.ly/zXEoP0

Charmaine and I have found ours, come in for a PK today to find the right frames for you, and have your team step up their style this Spring!

The Skagen Demark line of sunglasses allows for you to shop with the options of gender, collection, case material, frame colour, lens colour and lens treatment. Most importantly, sunglasses cases can be elegantly branded with corporate logos, names and colours for your event.

Spring is in the AIR!

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 13:46:00 EST

With the winter signing off, and the sun make more and more frequent cameos, we turn our focus from parkas to the upcoming spring trends in promotional.

Polo’s are back, and a top seller in the warmer months. The options we carry from Guru, James Harvest and Caulfeild apparel, allow for variations in size, cut, colour and style.

You know it is springtime, when the polo’s in demand have features like moisture wicking, ventilation and lighter, breathable fabrics for the long afternoons on the golf course.

Although black will forever be a crowd favourite, colours tend to be requested more often than in the colder months. Warm weather speaks volumes in our colour palette choices, and is an easier wear during hot days. Purple, pink, yellow and blue, are all the rage in both women’s and men’s offerings.

According to the fashion magazines that dictate our daily street wear and the night’s favourite outfits, this upcoming spring sees the embracing of sport couture. Fashion meets sneaker, which works nice for us in the promotional industry. Our polo’s pair up well with designer sneakers, and layering pieces line up perfectly.

Flower prints and bright colours are working the runway, but those bold statements may not work on a corporate piece, but accent pieces with spunk are a great add on to the corporate style. Alexander Wang had his models grace the runway in sports inspired outfits from jazzed up tracksuits to hooded zip up layering pieces, this could reflect well in the promotional trade.

The days aren’t always warm though, and with our unpredictable Canadian weather, we can sometimes see all 4 seasons in one week! So, in the spring months, layering is always a popular trend in purchases and order requests. A nice, fashionable piece to take you through wind, in sun and past a cool evening out with colleagues. We have different layering pieces like cardigans, vests, lightweight jackets in all of our valued brands.

Your budget for promotional items might be a bit tight for new seasonal purchases or to keep up with shifts in trends, but people are always interested in the newest and hottest, so stay top of mind and show value by considering new updated options.

"James Harvest adds profile to your business"

Lauren Shirreffs — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:10:00 EST

We are proud to announce that we are now showing the James Harvest line for our client base, and we welcome you the Gingerich Group showroom for upcoming PK’s.

James Harvest embodies classic style for promotional apparel, and allows for the branding of your company as the client see’s fit.

Since 1988, James Harvest has been helping companies create team spirit, representing a team player who was always hard working with a flair for the unexpected. It is classic style meets the individuality of each company.

We are confident this is will be a competitive advantage for our clients, and a great offering for the upcoming months leading to events, tournaments, charity functions, fundraising events and so forth.

“James Harvest Sportswear captures these qualities. Based on American collegiate fashion, our clothes are always of the highest quality. Clothes and styles that stand the test of time. James Harvest Sportswear is comfortable yet sporty. "Sporty elegance" is an expression that readily comes to mind.

Experience shows that business and organisations, that find quality to be an extremely important part of their market communication, most often choose James Harvest Sportswear as their supplier for identity clothes / advertising garments.”

James Harvest falls under the New Wave group umbrella of offerings. New Wave is a growth company that “designs, acquires and develops brands and products.

The Group will achieve synergies by coordinating design, purchasing, marketing, warehousing and distribution of its product range. To ensure good risk diversification, the Group will market its products in the corporate promo market and the retail market.

The Group is divided into three business areas: Corporate Promo, Sports & Leisure and Gifts & Home Furnishings. The products follow the business area but have separate sales teams for the different sales channels.” - http://bit.ly/zWCGiz

New Wave Group was established in 1990, first to Swedish and Norwegian markets. Currectly, it holds 20 different corporate brands, 14 Sports & Leisure brands and 12 Gifts & Home furnishing brands.

An inspiring company to keep an eye on, New Wave have now grown globally, and shine a creative and unique light on corporate brands.

Follow GG on twitter: @gingerichgroup

Promo World

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:11:00 EST

We all know that behind the glamour of an event, and the grandeur of a store front, what makes the world go round is the promotional trade. Think about it...

We stock up your give-away bags, create and brand bags, brand your events, slip into your comfy polo... the options are endless and promo materials are everywhere you turn.

Recently, it was nice to see an article shed some light on our trade, in Canada's own Trendhunter. Trendhunter is a favourite read of ours, as it dips into a variety of very innovative, cool, creative trends and stories that can inspire everyone daily.

They discussed Fairware, a promo product company offering only ethical products, check it out! A great read.

"Anyone who’s ever been to an event knows they will likely be offered promotional products, whether that’s a bag to collect handouts in or other swag to take home."

"The Vancouver-based company offers apparel and accessories, pens and pencils, lanyards and key chains, office accessories, umbrellas and holiday gifts, just to name a few. Their services include custom printing and branding of these items, organizing giveaways for trade shows, gifts for employees and clients and even creating online stores for companies to sell their branded Fairware products."

Interior Design Show 2012

Lauren Shirreffs — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:39:00 EST

Company of Adventures in IDS Toronto

Last week, I was fortunate enough to be invited to the Interior Design Show 2012 Gala. So, on Thursday night I scrambled to get ready after a long day at the office, and made my way down to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre to enjoy a night of innovation and creativity.

To my surprise, our friends from Company of Adventurers were one of the nights’ sponsors, and had on display their amazing jackets (for me to try on in every colour). Company of Adventures, brought to the forefront by Caulfeild (one of the lines we carry), is rich in history was re-birthed late last year, just in time for the winter season. Feel free to view their site, and inquire more details from Roger, Danielle or Charmaine.

The IDS Toronto showed great designs for the home and workplace, and is definitely a weekend event worth checking out. If you can, score some tickets next year to the gala, so you can browse the (sometimes overwhelming) selection with a beer, hor’duerve and a few friends.

New styles to look forward from Caulfeild this season:

The Women’s/Men’s CB DryTec Kingston Pique Polo

100% Polyester pique

Moisture Wicking

Self- Fabric Collar

Side Vents

Machine Wash

The Women’s CB Drytec Luxe Benson Polo

52% Cotton, 48% Polyester

Moisture Wicking, Wrinkle-free finishing

Self-Fabric Stand Collar

Machine Wash

The Women’s/Men’s Epic Easy Care Royal Oxford

60% Cotton, 40% Polyester Oxford

Wrinkle Resistant

Button-Down Collar

Coordinating Logo Buttons

And so much more. Check out the most recent catalogues, and let us know if you require some extras and we will be happy to come drop to you.

Have a great week!

Until Next Year PPPC!

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:50:00 EST

Well, PPPC Show wrapped up, and we had a blast with Custom Classic, Holiday Group and Guru Sportswear. It was great to see what's going on in the marketplace and catch up with old, familiar faces!

On our downtime, we filmed another "Minute with GG", to give a little more insight on our popular Knirps! Also, check out some of their cool old commercials from back-in-the-day!

Look forward to seeing you soon around our King West Showroom or while we are out 'n about on the road. Also, don't forget to pop in and get your very own Knirps and ensure your clients are prepared for the upcoming Spring (not as far as we think!).

PPPC Trade Show with Guru Sportswear, Holiday Group and Custom Classics!

Lauren Shirreffs — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:29:00 EST

Today we kicked of a three day stint at Toronto's Metro Convention Centre for the annual PPPC Show!

This is a great time to pick up new catalogues, schmooze with the industry and brief customers and clients on the new offerings at the Gingerich Group.

As mentioned in last weeks post, if you are visiting the show we can be found at either of these booths:

Holiday Group @ Booth 411

Guru Sportswear @ Booth 604

Custom Classic @ Booth 1326

Trade shows are a fun way to see what is trending in the promotional industry, and sometimes companies can get quite creative in the ways they attract visitors and elevate thier brand. Cool ways to stand out are always embraced this week, in an industry that mostly leans to black on black, and signature styles.

Hope you have a chance to make it out, but if not we will be updating our facebook and twitter with pictures, highlights and anything you might be missing out on! So be sure to follow us!

Follow GG on twitter @gingerichgroup

Follow the GG team:

Roger: @gingerboi27

Lauren: @laurenmarias

Charmaine: @charmainejoseph

Danielle: @danielledawson

Karolina: @sweet_lina

Next Week PPPC Show!!

Lauren Shirreffs — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:16:00 EST

Happy Friday the 13^th! For some people this is a “bad-luck day”, but not for GG! We are happy there is snow so we can dance around in our Mooseknuckle jackets; warm and toasty.

Next week we are looking very forward to spending Wednesday through Friday, from 9:30 am until 4:30 pm, representing some of our valued brands.

We would love for you to stop by, check out some new 2012 catalogues, and have a chat with the team! Come visit:

Holiday Group @ Booth 411

Guru Sportswear @ Booth 604

Custom Classic @ Booth 1326

Knirps

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:48:00 EST

At the Gingerich Group, we pride ourselves in offering our clients the very best in selection, quality and useful promotional brands. We love to take time highlighting them either by video or blog, so our clients can really become acquainted with any new product we currently carry, or special features to our favourite in-house items.

Today, we wish to spend some time discussing the very well-known brand, Knirps. Yes, the umbrellas; but they are much more than just an umbrella.

Good ideas come from genuine needs and wants, and so learned founder Hans Haupt. War injuries made walking a difficult task for young Hans, and carrying both an umbrella and a walking stick was both inconvenient and challenging. So, being an innovator, he sought to change this- and created the first umbrella with a telescopic frame.

What does that mean? I ask myself as I sit down to write this… English, pls?!

Just that the umbrella was in the same form as a telescope. Small enough that he could carry his tiny “tot” under his arm comfortably, lean enough to fashionably carry around, and still aiding Hans from the perils of rain.

Name? Knirps means “tot” in German… there ya go. Learn something new everyday.

As time went on, Knirps played with different fashions, trends and technologies to perfect the renowned brand, and provide the customer with the best in umbrellas, such as the first automatic one in 1965 and the smallest Knirps ever in 2004, the Knirps XI.

Umbrellas and rain are their company’s passion, functionality is their focus and fashion is their forte… get your Knirps today!

Make an appt. with Roger, Charmaine and Danielle to come in and see the wide assortment we carry via the Holiday Group.

Interesting facts:

- In the US alone, about 33 million umbrellas, worth $348 million, are sold each year.

- In the US, so many umbrella-related patents are being filed that the U.S. Patent Office employs four full-time examiners to assess them.

- During the Antiquity, umbrellas did not protect from the rains but from the harmful sun's rays. Until the eighteen century, umbrellas was considered as accessories for nobles and people who came from a wealthy background.

- Using an umbrella to take photos will provide you very great results and your photos will look like as if they had been taken by a professional.

Fossil Inc buys Skagen Denmark

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:45:00 EST

“Fossil Inc. agreed to buy Skagen Designs Ltd. and some international affiliates for about $236.9 million in cash and stock, giving the retailer a broader range of consumer accessories for its collection.” - http://www.marketwatch.com

Founded in 1984, Fossil Inc has been a designer and manufacturer of clothing and accessories, primarily watches and jewelry. Their brands include Fossil, Relic, Abacus, Burberry, Emporio Armani, Michele Watch and Zodiac Watches.

“Skagen is unique and has enormous potential as a lifestyle brand,” said Fossil Chief Executive Kosta Kartsotis. “We see many similarities in the history and values of our two companies and look forward to creating something greater together.”

At the Gingerich Group, it is business as usual, and we are excited for the growth in Skagen Denmark as a brand and the additional offerings we may be able to offer our client base. Please stay tuned for any developments and additional information we can provide for you in the coming weeks.

Skagen posted the following message on their Facebook:

Dear Skagen Denmark fans and customers,

Today we are excited to announce that Skagen Denmark will soon join the portfolio of distinct brands owned by Fossil America! We have built Skagen for 22 years and they have been the best years of our lives. We love our brand and our great fans across the world. It is for this reason that we want to give our baby, Skagen, a bigger opportunity. We recognize that this may leave you with some questions, so we wanted to personally assure you of a few things:

While Fossil America will have acquired Skagen Designs, we will still operate as an independent company (for now.)
The family values that have come to define the Skagen Denmark brand for the last 22 years will continue with a focus on distinct Danish designs as an affordable luxury.
For a while, you've asked, "Where can I find a Skagen watch in my area?" So we are thrilled that this partnership means our products will have more retail partners, so more places around the world where you can find Skagen Denmark!
Our signature slim watches are here to stay! You can expect the same innovation and heritage you have come to know and trust.

Most importantly, just like Fossil, our customers come first. Always have, always will.

Our sincere thanks for your continued support!

Charlotte & Henrik Jorst

Happy New Year from GG

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:33:00 EST

Before the holidays, GG family decided to put together a Happy New Year video for our social media channels. A little diddy for our friends, family and clients to enjoy!

Now, we thought we should also put it up on our blog... so due to popular request, I leave you with a Happy New Years greeting from GG:

How To Pack Properly (And fit in the necessary groceries)

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:17:00 EST

We all have those moments: Going on a vacation, unsure about the weather or what you might be doing, therefore making packing a nightmare. Or those long trips abroad where your mother insists that you bring salami and cheese to your sister (in case they “might not”have food in London, England), where you sacrifice your best shoes for popular cured meat.

I hear ya. I have battled with the best of them: Swiss Gear, Travelpro, Roots, Air Canada; they have all felt the wrath of my body weight and knees as I sit on top to try to close my suitcase, often times, unsuccessfully. It is seriously a wonder my suitcase hasn’t busted open a few times; thank goodness it hasn’t, or I would reveal what should be a fridge.

In my history of traveling, I have accumulated a few tips that could be of interest to you, or at least add some creativity to your packing. Hey, anyway I can squeeze in those last few purchases, and not dent my beach straw hat- I will do it!

Hard items: Flat iron, blow dryer, shoes, brushes, make up cases…

Pack these items first, so you can roll and wrap up your clothing around them. This will not only protect the items, btu hold them in place and create space for you to pack in your favourite wardrobe. Think: Tetris. This can actually be a fun game.

Shapes: Roll, wrap, and make it work….

Jeans should be folded pant to pant, and then rolled to be placed in your suitcase. The rolling technique is the best way to utilize the space and even hold in that wine bottle or olive oil you are bringing from Italy for your mother to try (don’t judge me…).

Valuables: They are valuable, right? Hang on to them.

Never pack expensive jewelry, money, travel documents, medication, or anything else you value in your suitcase; instead, carry these items in a carry on- like the roll carry on we carry from David Jones that can also fit your laptop (you have seen us all with these, (minus Roger), as they are one of our essentials).

Which brings me to essentials:

Never pack without:

·      International adapter

·      A book

·      Phone charger

·      Blow dryer (hotel ones are always terrible)

·      Gravol, advil and bandaids

·      Nail polish remover and a neutral nail polish

·      Nylons

·      Hand wipes/ Hand Sanitizer

·      Wipes for surfaces (you never know…)

·      Cotton pads

·      One dress shirt, One black dress, One black skirt, One pair of jeans, One T-shirt, A Blazer, a Long Coat, a black pair of heels and comfortable shoes in case you are walking around (these you can wear on the plane… leaving more room in your suitcase)

There you go, you should be all set for your next trip.

Need the right luggage? At Gingerich Group we carry a wide variety of options from the Holiday Group that can take you to a meeting, a business trip and halfway around the world in style and function. Check the list of brands on our website, and book a time to come in and view the assortment, let Roger/Danielle take you through the special functions, and find the right one for you, your clients and your staff.

Branding, logo’s and embossing are options on most pieces.

Hope to see you soon.

Follow GG on twitter @gingerichgroup

Follow the GG team:

Roger: @gingerboi27

Lauren: @laurenmarias

Charmaine: @charmainejoseph

Danielle: @danielledawson

Karolina: @sweet_lina

A Minute w/ GG: Skangen Denmark

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:06:00 EST

Our 60 second PK on Skagen Denmark.

GG Digital Shorts: A Minute with GG

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 12:14:00 EST

At the Gingerich Group, we are coming up with creative new ways for your to have at-your-desk product knowledge sessions with Rog, Danielle, Charmaine or Lauren. Think about it... short, one minute blurbs on all the important details of each of the lines we carry, on call, anytime of the day, right from your handheld and computer.

Bounce it off a wall, play it on a big screen, show it to your clients and email, call or skype us with any additional questions.

We hope you like this idea, and it helps us to better serve you. Again, these will be short, 1 minute PK videos that we will showcase on our blog, Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and of course, our Gingerich Group YouTube page.

Feel free to email us and let us know what we are missing, thing you would like us to feature and any ideas that can better service you and your valued clients.

Thanks and... Happy Holidays!

Interesting Watch Facts

Lauren Shirreffs — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:34:00 EST

With our Canadian Skagen Denmark brand launch, we have watches (and accessories) on the mind. Did you know that the most common time for a watch to stop is at 10 after 2? Neither did we. The fun things you learn about your offerings, are always great conversation starters.

There are actually quite a few things I bet you didn’t know about watches:

- Every watch you see in an ad or commercial is pointed at 10 and 2 to mimic a smiley face and evoke a sense of positivity

- Before World War One, only women wore wristwatches; soldiers began wearing them in the War as a means of keeping their hands free for more important matters

- Real gentlemen, who carried pocket watches, were actually quoted as saying they would "sooner wear a skirt as wear a wristwatch"

- The earliest recorded use of the term 'wrist-watch' in English was by Baden Powell in 1896 writing about the Matabele Campaign when he advised that "Field-glasses, wrist-watch, buckles, and buttons should be dulled"- http://wakkipedia.com

There you have it! Some cool Watch facts, you can wow your friends with. Other great offerings from Skagen Denmark are their really cool accessories and sunglasses. There are multiple branding options on all of their offerings; book in to see Roger or Danielle, and get a good look at the 2012 collections!

Custom Classic Mfg

Lauren Shirreffs — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 15:32:00 EST

The Gingerich Group is proud to announce the latest addition to their offerings at the agency, Custom Classic Mfg.

Established in 1980, Custom Classic Mfg. (CCM) has been manufacturing a unique line of quality promotional products for over 30 years. Along with an outstanding promotional product line, CCM operates a state of the art screen-printing facility for custom apparel and accessory decoration.

With the CCM factory located in the same building as the Gingerich Group showroom, convenience and faster deliveries is key in this new partnership, thus providing the best in service to our valued clients.

“We are excited to be represented by Roger Gingerich and the Gingerich Group, and look forward to the new opportunities and possibilities.” - Gilda Copertino, General Manager, Custom Classic Mfg. (CCM)

The Gingerich Group is very excited to bring on CCM 's Clients and their impressive line up of custom buttons, badges, magnets, calendars, digitally printed products and custom apparel, and feel very strongly this will be a desired addition for clients.

“Another quality offering for our valued clientele, that we are confident will be a successful addition to our brands.”

The Gingerich Group is a multi-line agency based out of King Street West (Fashion district), Toronto. Always on the cutting edge of trends, fashion and design, the Gingerich Group aims to reach the needs of their valued client base by providing quality products, popular brands, unparalleled service and efficiency.

@custom_classic

@gingerichgroup

http://www.facebook.com/customclassic

http://www.facebook.com/GingerichGroup

Skagen in the HOUSE

Lauren Shirreffs — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 15:26:00 EST

Today we had our first PK with Skagen Denmark! It was an absolute pleasure to put face to name, and learn the intricate details of such a unique and quality brand. We are so excited to have this line as part of the offerings for our client base, and there is no doubt in our mind that you will love it as much as we do.

We are preparing for our big Skagen Denmark Brand Launch, showcasing next years special styles and new designs this week at the Gingerich Group showroom, and will definitely keep you in the loop if you are not able to make it via Facebook, Twitter updates and a follow up blog entry with pics!

Stay tuned!

@skagendenmark

@gingerichgroup

Announcement!

Lauren Shirreffs — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 15:36:00 EST

We are proud to announce our new addition… Skagen Denmark! We look forward to sharing with our valued client base their upcoming lines and designs, and showcasing them in our downtown showroom! Be sure to book in for an appointment with Roger and Charmaine! A perfect essential for Holiday gift giving.

Skagen Designs, creators of the internationally acclaimed Skagen Denmark® brand of watches, jewellery, sunglasses and clocks is pleased to announce a newly forged partnership with Toronto, Ontario based Gingerich Group who will be responsible for presenting the company’s promotional products line of watches and accessories to the group’s fashion-conscious corporate partners in Ontario.

“The ability to customize and personally brand a Skagen Denmark product is a powerful marketing tool,” Mike Paidakovich, Director of Sales - International and Special Markets for Skagen Designs said. “It shows the end consumer that the company offering the product has a commitment to not only quality but to the end-recipient as well. We knew that choosing the Gingerich Group to represent our brand would be essential in getting Skagen Denmark products into the hands of people who have the experience and appreciation of personally branded promotional items.”

The Gingerich Group partnership is the latest in a line of newly formed relationships for Skagen Designs as they prepare to fully enter into the highly valued Canadian market starting in December 2011, and is the very first expedition for Skagen’s Promotional Products Division in the Canadian marketplace.

GG Holiday Shop Night- Vendors Confirmed!

Lauren Shirreffs — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST

With the upcoming GG Holiday Sale, we can’t keep in our excitement! The brands are amazing, the sales are HUGE and you (and we!) can all get our Holiday shopping done in time to enjoy the eggnog while everyone is fighting over parking at suburban malls.

Our line up thus far (click over the names of each brand to view collections!)

Left Coast

Tenstate Cargos

Aviator Nation Sweats

Robin’s

GG Collective

Remembrance Day

Lauren Shirreffs — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 12:03:00 EST

Today we observe a moment of silence for those who bravely fought for the continual peace and freedom in our great nation since the end of World War 1. Remembrance day is observed today, since it was the official end of WW1 in 1918, when “hostilities formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11^th day of the 11^th month."

As our busy make for frantic workdays and deadlines, it is very important to take a few minutes to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

We are so blessed to live in such a peaceful and opportunist country, and it is thanks to those who gave their lives to paving this path.

In Flanders Field

By Canadian physician and Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae

May 3^rd, 1915

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
      Between the crosses, row on row,
   That mark our place; and in the sky
   The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
   Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
         In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
   The torch; be yours to hold it high.
   If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
         In Flanders fields.

Because it is such a popular poem, that I’m sure each of us has learned in elementary school and hear every year at this time… we sometimes forget just how powerful this poem is, and how delicately it illustrates the sacrifice and suffering of war.

Lest we forget

Out with the Beaver in with the Mooseknuckles

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 16:03:00 EST

A Conservative senator says it's time Canada was symbolized by something more majestic than a buck-toothed rodent.

“The beaver was included in the armorial bearings of the City of Montréal when it was incorporated as a city in 1833. Sir Sandford Fleming assured the beaver a position as a true National Symbol when he featured it on the first Canadian postage stamp - the "Three Penny Beaver" of 1851.

The beaver appeared with the other popular Canadian symbol, the maple leaf, on the masthead of Le Canadién, a newspaper published in Lower Canada. It was one of the emblems of the Société Saint-Jean-Baptiste for a time, and it’s still found on the crest of the Canadian Pacific Railway Company (CPR).” For more: http://bit.ly/vt0hTQ

Don’t we owe it to these cute animals to continue to feature them, since we killed about 6 million of them during the fur trade…

However, I understand the want to change this figure, and move towards a more commanding, strong and dominating animal. Though, I think it is too “late in the game” to be looking for another means to brand Canada… and I think the beaver, is quite funny. One thing about Canadians is our ability to roll with the punches, take a joke here and there and our amazing sense of humour.

What animal so you think best symbolizes a Canadian? Trout? Salmon? Bear?

I think the only strong options if we are going to be moving away from the little beaver would be:

The Moose

Strong, sturdy, quiet and peaceful… the moose only becomes violent when stirred up. The moose, a grandeur being that feeds on vegetation, are solitary beings that avoid travelling within a herd.

The Bear

There are 3 bear species in Canada: Black bear, Grizzly bear and Polar bear. Also, a solitary animal; bears who can tend to be violent, are actually shy and timid of humans (even though you might find them digging through your garbage after a barbeque campside).

Tell us what animal you think best represents Canada and why?

Answers will be reviewed, and the best answer (voted by facebook likes) will win a Rocker Dave Mooseknuckle jacket. Warm up like a Canadian lumberjack rocker this winter… we sure are!

Swiss Gear

Lauren Shirreffs — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 11:17:00 EST

Hello all and Happy Friday!

To continue with our Holiday Group blog, we wanted to take a few minutes to chat Swiss Gear.

A brand since the early 1880’s, Swiss Gear is a brand everyone can identify with and attribute at least one piece of travel luggage to.

Sitting down to write this, I realize that I have had my Swiss Gear luggage since before I worked at the Gingerich Group, bought somewhere in Vaughan Mills before my major trip abroad.

I anxiously picked, what the salesperson assured me, was the best of the best in quality. It not only lasted the European long haul, it followed me to Argentina, fell down the winding staircase in London, England, housed my belongings for a week in Africa, and dotted around the US with me.

Investment pieces are exactly that. These luggage pieces come with us; carry your wardrobe, gifts and favourite shoes around the globe. They can sometimes hide the cheese and salami you are smuggling in for your mother, disguise the purses you bought off Canal Street and fit everything you need for the last minute trip (even if that means you have to sit on the darn thing, to close it).

Don’t skimp out for anything less than the best when you are planning your next holiday.

Travelpro

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:19:00 EST

As you know, the Gingerich Group proudly carries Holiday Group. Holiday Group Inc. was founded in 1951 by the Sanders family and continues to be a privately held Canadian corporation managed by a group of principals who together have served the company in product development, sales and management for well over a hundred years.

In the weeks leading up to the holiday season we will be highlighting each brand.

For over 2 decades, Travelpro has prided itself on design, innovation and quality. Their durability is bar none, and the luggage wear is for the experienced traveler.

Matching style, trend, fashion with function, comfort and innovation… we are proud to show you Travelpro.

New website coming!

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 15:41:00 EST

Yesterday we had the talented Dave Gillespie in the GG showroom to shoot our new website shots. With the new additions to our team, and changes we wish to make on our website, these new pictures are needed and welcomed. We are very excited to see the fun, creative shots Dave took, but until then we have some background sneak peaks by our friend Kat Cooper.

We are always trying our best to stay on trend, change with the times and offer our clients the best in service and product- if you have any suggestions or ways you think we can improve, we are happy to hear it!

Call, email or twitter/FB us!

@gingerichgroup

Chk out more pics on our FB at http://www.facebook.com/GingerichGroup

If it keeps it warm, it keeps us happy!

Lauren Shirreffs — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:46:00 EST

Come in and visit us at GG, where we can have a coffee, catch up and show you all of our new offerings just in time for the Holidays. What better way to tell your clients they rock, than with a "Rocker Dave" jacket and a mug or thermos!

Holiday and Appreciation Gift Ideas

Lauren Shirreffs — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:28:00 EST

Have you seen the new app for iPhones and Blackberry’s reminding you just how quickly the Holiday season is creeping up?

2 months

67 days

97427 minutes

5848283 seconds

Lets just say… soon… very soon.

In the spirit of this, we present you with another great idea for the holiday season. Promotional options are a great way to showcase your brand and also present your client with a beautiful appreciation gift this upcoming holiday season.

Popular gift giving ideas: pens, notebooks and business card holders.

Introducing our new intern: Keshia Griffiths

Lauren Shirreffs — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 13:51:00 EST

Born and raised in Fox Harbour, Newfoundland, Keshia Griffiths moved to Ontario at the age of 16 with her parents and brother. She attended Conestoga College for Administrative Accounting before deciding to follow her dreams of a career in fashion at the Academy of Design at RCC Institute of Technology.

"Newfoundland has its own unique culture within Canada. Its vast scenery and strong heritage is worth the trip alone. In fact, I miss looking at the starry night sky. Moving to Ontario was a huge culture shock for me and changed me significantly, as I came from a fishing community of approx. 200 people. I have learned to control my accent (so others can understand what I’m saying), and began to experiment with my style.

However, many traditions followed me to Toronto. Food like Jiggs Dinner and Newfie fries (the Newfie poutine) are frequent in my life, and I will never stop listening to my Celtic accordion music. I hope to bring the Newfie down-to-earth mind-set and friendly nature to the Gingerich Group while expanding my knowledge and skills in the industry."

We are happy to have Keshia on board with us here at the Gingerich Group as we enter our busy season. Have a Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

* Note: Roger Gingerich will be out of the office until October 24th, please direct all calls and inquiries to Charmaine Joseph at charmaine@gingerich.ca.

Say Thank-You This Holiday Season

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 14:07:00 EST

It's closer than you think... Before you know it your weekends will be packed with dinner parties and cocktails, gift swaps and Kris-Kringle in the office. You could scramble last minute, or you could prepare ahead of time and avoid the brow sweat you might get shopping on the eleventh hour.

With Dezine Corp., we have a variety of creative office gift giving to say the appropraite thank-you's to the team who has helped you grow, the clients you so cherish and the friends you have been meaning to make time for all year.

= a happy staff, client, friends and co-workers.

a) who doesn't like coffee or tea? Everyone has their vice, and brand your own coffee mug so your logo can be in their hand first thing in the morning and over the afternoon hump. On tip of memory, easy to find, always in hand.

b) Eco-friendly. Rather than hopping out to get a coffee in a to go cup, bottled water or bottled refreshments, use your branded coffee mug and it is an easy clean up and re-use. Save the energy and get your hands wet. Then this really becomes a reusable, ecofriendly alternative to bottles and waste.

Stay tuned to our weekly Holiday gift ideas, and get in touch with Charmaine or Roger to book an appointment and plan out the best options for your most cherished.

Twitter: @gingerichgroup

Welcome Danielle Dawson!

Lauren Shirreffs — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 10:59:00 EST

The Gingerich Group is very excited to add Danielle Dawson to our team, with the wonderful addition of Dezine Corp.

With a Bachelor of Design, minor in Marketing from Ryerson Universities Fashion Communication program Danielle Dawson found herself working for some of the most prestigious retail stores in Toronto. Specializing in Buying, Public Relations/Marketing and Sales. After 6 years in the retail side of fashion, Danielle decided to pursue other avenues of the fashion industry and branched out into wholesale.

Having worked in wholesale for a large Canadian Accessories Company with accounts such as Joe Fresh, The Bay and Holt Renfrew, as well as, roles in wholesale for apparel lines.

Deciding to, once again, broaden her knowledge in the fashion industry, Danielle has taken on a new challenge in sales at the Gingerich Group, Toronto based multi-line agency.

Danielle will fit into the creative vibe at GG perfectly! Welcome Danielle!

Favourite Starbucks Vice: Soy Chai Late

GG Shop Night Round Up

Lauren Shirreffs — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 11:38:00 EST

Last Monday we had another one of our fun GG Shop Nights, but this time for both Men and Women. It was a crowded house right when the doors opened at 5pm, and we stayed open a half an hour later then originally determined. A perfect night to socialize and catch up with friends/clients, we also had a creative assortment of our favourite brands to chose from at amazing price points.

The usual suspects: Moose Knuckles, Post’age Denim, Jeremy Laing, Frye Boots, Moovboots, English Laundry, David Jones, Mc Gregor Socks were of course, crowd favourites. We also introduced the lovely and talented Tara Fava of Tara Fave Jewellery, each of her exquisite pieces can be also bought online or check them our in upcoming issues of Weddingbells Magazine.

To add to the eclectic vibe in the room, our friends Beckie Dileo and Jessica Gorlicky added flair to our fashion with their spectacular art pieces. Beckie brought by her lovely illustrations of movers and shakers in and around Toronto, and Jessica joined us on her only night off from Cirque Du Soleil, where she live paints in the VIP room (say hello if you are there!).

Check out some of the fun pictures our friend Brigitta Kogut (she is sponsoring an upcoming art event with Jessica Gorlicky, if you wish to attend, feel free to RSVP directly to Jessica, tell ‘em we sent ya! Details below…)

Imagine 10 000sq of hanging painted butterflies, 24 huge paintings, thousands of mannequins and lolly pops – “Paint My Candy” is an RSVP only event and if you’d like to attend please let me know as well as who your bringing. Last year there were over 750 people and this year we’re estimating close to 1000 that night! This event is free to a select group of individuals only. Seven continents is a specialty design, fixture and mannequins manufacturer (Largest in North America). This show will expose a select group of artists @ SEVEN CONTINENTS STUDIO, developing independently branded fashion businesses and collaborating on visual presentation and store design. Its literally mind blowing.

Launching 4 pop shows
objex by architexture for jewlery
cydelic by choryin for accessories
x-crated for shoes
introducing indonesian artist Andi Ramdani
sculptur and painter
starring 60′ bamboo saures rex
grand opening of SEVENup retail
Paint my Candy by Jessica Gorlicky

RSVP Only to jessica@jessgo.com

GG Shop Night Part Three

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:20:00 EST

Fall is here. Maybe the leaves haven’t dropped yet, but the teasing of cooler temperatures has definitely made an appearance, threatening us with shorter days and darker evenings.

Personally, I embrace Fall. I despise Winter, but Fall I welcome with open arms. Fashion is at its best, magazines are busting with inspiration, PK’s are filling up our showroom and Septembers brings on a new feeling of re-birth.

In light of this, our highly anticipated GG Shop Nights are back on! We took a late summer hiatus to allow for time to vacation, clients to have break and decided it would be best to come back in Fall with a bang. Well… BANG… here we are.

Save the date: Monday, September 26^th @ 4pm-8pm

Brands to be announced.

TOPS+

Lauren Shirreffs — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 10:41:00 EST

What is today, you ask? Well, today the team is setting up shop in the International Center for the TOPS+ Show (Travelling Optimum Promotional Show). The show is open for 2 days, with 230+ booths and a very entertaining fashion show we have put on for our friends at Admar.

Every year we make it to the TOPS+ show to mingle with clients, work alongside our suppliers, take a peak at what creative offerings are out there and have a lovely day outside the office.

If you get a chance, pop on over to us and say hello, we will be with the Holiday Group, DezineCorp and Guru. And on Thursday, make sure you locate us at Admars’ hospitality room, where there will be drinks and food for clients and a bubbling fashion show to get you ready for upcoming PK’s and of course, the fal/winter season.

See you there!

Happy Anniversary to me

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 12:26:00 EST

It has been two years today. Two years today I signed on as Creative Director for the Gingerich Group and have dedicated myself to countless hours and exciting projects in the time together.

First, we revamped the website. Branding extravaganza. Everything had to change to fit the short and long term goals and new mission of the Gingerich Group. With talented web designers on board, I worked with them to ensure our personalities and amazing offerings were highlighted while still maintaining loyalty and convenience for our valued clients.

The Red Thread blog was a fun and unexpected success. After months of trying to explain the relevance of a blog, Roger gave me the go ahead… and well, the rest is history. Each of us at the agency, including interns, have the opportunity to pitch and write a piece on our blog and we often get feedback and positivity from clients on tidbits they stumbled upon on the Red Thread. To this day, we get upward of

60 000 + (I know this because Roger checks everyday…) and it has helped to leverage our columns in other publications i.e. Marketing Edge magazine and TChad magazine.

A way to bring together all of our lines, and clearly define who and what we do at the Gingerich Group, I thought a Style Guide we be a fun project and a useful guide for current clients, their clients and friends. The team agreed this Style guide would be helpful, and we embarked on our first “publication”, per se. Reaching out to friends and colleagues, we had some Toronto notables over to our new GG headquarters at 545 King West to come and shoot with the wonderful Vaness Heins. Charmaine styled, I wrote and coordinated, Karolina was the web genius behind the masterpiece and Roger made sure to double check and triple check al things were smooth sailing. The feedback has been tremendous and we are so proud of our GG Style guide (already planning the next one to introduce our new lines!).

Shop nights, PDFs, fashion shows, charity events… it has been a crazy ride, but a crazy ride I have shared with people I am proud to call friends and share my days with.

Thanks to a supportive team, who always listen to my ideas… even when they might be a bit out there (remember when I thought it would be a good idea to design our own bikes… or t-shirt lines… or cake decorating…).

Cheers to many more years to come.

Now back to that Jagermeister bottle on my desk…

Just kidding (NOT!)

Taking a glimpse over the years...

To be or not to be...

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 14:07:00 EST

Did you know?

Golf season doesn’t have to end, with stunning courses around the globe, take your clubs with you to another location (with more suitable weather!), and keep your game in check!

There are 32 000 golf courses in the world, 59% of which are in N.America.

The Worlds’ Top 10 Golf Courses out of 100, according to Golf Magazine:

1. Pine Valley in Pine Valley, New Jersey, USA

2. Cypress Point in Pebble Beach, California, USA

3. Augusta National in Augusta, GA, USA

4. St. Andrews in St.Andrews, Scotland

5. Royal County Down in Newcastle, N.Ireland

6. Shinnecock Hills in Southhampton, NY, USA

7. Pebble Beach, Pebble Beach, California, USA

8. Oakmont in Oakmont, Pa., USA

9. Muirfield in Gullane, Scotland

10. Merion (East) in Ardmore, Pa., USA

You Have to Look the Part

Golf is not just about how good you are, but the rules and regulations alone have you (or me at least) scrambling for the most appropriate outfits, best clubs (that might hide my golf game) and various nick-nacks that give the illusion I am better at this game than I really am.

Hottest Clubs

2011 Best List according to Golfdigest.com

Taylormade Burner 2.0 Iron

Ping G15 Irons

Taylormade R11 Driver

Callaway RAZR X IRONS

Callaway DIABLO OCTANE DRIVER

Taylormade BURNER SUPERFAST 2.0 DRIVER

Titleist 910D2/D3 DRIVER

Ping G15 DRIVER

Callaway DIABLO EDGE IRONS

Callaway RAZR HAWK DRIVER

Hottest Balls

Bridgestone B330 / B330-S / B330-RX / B330-RXS

Callaway Tour i(s) /Tour i(z)

Nike 20XI-S / 20XI-X

Srixon Z-Star / Z-Star XV

TaylorMade Penta TP

Titleist Pro V1 / Pro V1x

Bridgestone e5

Bridgestone e6

Callaway HX Diablo Tour

TaylorMade Burner Tour

So what else? Clothes of course…

Cutter & Buck has some amazing pieces to keep you stylish and on par (no pun intended…) with trends on the course.

Call Roger or Charmaine today and see the new line up.. you won't be disapointed.

Why you should know about Caulfeild Apparel

Lauren Shirreffs — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 13:43:00 EST

We are proud to have on board our newest collections from Caulfeild Apparel! North America’s leading manufacturer and distrubutor of high quality apparel is the newest addition to our GG family, and we welcome you to stop by our showroom for a glimpse into the styles, fashions and creativity around this exciting brands.

Abacus

With a focus on functionality and everyday fashions, Abacus is a Scandinavian treasure ushering in colour and comfort onto the shores of North American markets.

Current and trendy, Abacus “has proven they can deliver great products and a recognizable brand identity”.

Call Roger or Charmaine for a current catalogue, and update your wardrobe and your clients wardrobe with functional style style.

Cutter & Buck

With years of research & development into quality, high end performance clothing, high end fabrics and signature styles, Cutter & Buck “embodies the genuine spirit of sportswear”.

True Canadiana with a modern day flair, we are sporting their zip ups and snuggling in their sweaters for Fall… as should you!

Call today for an appointment to view the collection, you won’t be disappointed.

Change is good, quality is incomparable and at GG we are happy to have new offerings to showcase this Fall to our valued clients. Feedback is always welcomed.

Look forward to seeing you all very soon… Fall is around the corner- time to book in your PK’s!

Words Wrap Up

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 09:28:00 EST

After just under 2 months of planning, on July 28^th we presented Words in support of Literature for Life at CLounge, partnered with Kobo, sponsored by Hamilton Watches and Hosted by Dwight Drummond of CBC.

Over 500 patrons gathered at the spa-inspired CLounge and smoozed, nibbled on popcorn or a burger and watched the breath-taking performances.

The evening featured a lineup of crowd favourites: spoken word poetry by Dwayne Morgan and Jelani “Jwyze” Nias, and live music by Andria Symaniw, Mike Celia and Don Cash.

All performances were introduced by CBC News Toronto co-host, Dwight Drummond and were followed by the highly anticipated dj set orchestrated by Juno Award- winning artist K-os.

Named as one of the weekends “can’t miss events” in NOW Magazines Big 3, the long- weekend, bbq themed party with a purpose, accessorized with cotton – candy and popcorn machines, a smile booth, rose petals, tea lights and cupcakes raised $21, 000 with popular contributions that included: a silent auction, raffle and live fashion art sketches by acclaimed fine artist Becky Dileo.

All proceeds will go towards Literature for Life’s unique reading circle programming that unleashes the intellectual potential of marginalized young mothers by helping them discover the joys and benefits of reading and learning.

Our BBQ themed event was equipped with burgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs, popcorn machines, cotton candy machines, a Smile Booth, cupcakes by Cutie pie cupcakes and a beautiful flower infused pool.

Toronto Notables: Kim Mitchell, Casie Stewart, Dwight Drummond, Anne-Marie Mediwake, and a slew of athletes in the disguise of a suit.

Thank you: Dwight Drummon, K-Os, Jwyze, Andria Symaniw, Mike Celia and Don Cash.

A special thank you to all our friends who supported us, sold tickets, donated and listened to nothing but event planning talk for 6 weeks.

Especially:

Kobo

Hamilton Watches

Westjet

Laura Sebesta, who singlehandedly sold upward of 120 tickets

Rainbow Mechanical

McGregor Socks

Beckie DiLeo

Flirty Girl Fitness

Smilebooth/ Socialgift

PLZ Law

Private Service Realty

Panasonic

North Tech Stone and Ceramic

Premier Ceramics

Holiday Group

Caulfield

Billie Mintz and Nicola Smith

Melissa Curry

Blo Blow Dry Bar

Rose Christina for the Orlando Magic hook up

Kevin Tracey

2Social

Coco & Lowe

YYZ Magazine

Bamboo Magazine

Constance McInnes

Felicia Malovatski

And all of our amazing volunteers, interns and helpers who we couldn’t have done this without. Everyone was so gracious with their time, and enthusiastic to help, this is why our event proved so successful.

ALSO- every one who donated to our silent auction: Off the cuff menswear, clublink, Chef Rocco, Moovboots, Jeremy Lang, Grand & Toy, Boba, Mooseknuckles, Buco Restaurant, Kiwe Restaurant, Hammam Spa, Shkank, Foxy Originals, Cooksville Dodge, ED's Real Scoop, Rosedale Golf Course, Hammer Skate, Blue Jay's, Chakman Chow, Hire a Happy Nanny, Calvin Klein, Palm Pre

GG presents: WORDS

Raya Todorova — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 10:47:00 EST

If you follow us on our other social media outlets - such as Facebook and Twitter - you may have noticed that our showroom has been buzzing with excitement in recent weeks.

The Gingerich Group continues to support Literature for Life - but this time with fundraising event at CLounge on Wellington Street, Toronto this upcoming July 28th. This promises to be an exciting night filled with music, celebrities and inspirational WORDS.

The Day is July 28th, The Place - Toronto's exclusive CLounge and The Line- UP...well that is just simply going to blow your mind. Featuring Juno award-winning K-OS, intimate live performances by Andria Symaniw, Don Cash and Mike Celia, as well as spoken word artists Dwayne Morgan, Jwyze and Rootz Kizzy.

Hosted by Literature for Life, Lauren Shirreffs and The Gingerich Group.

Oh, wait! There's more : a special guest emcee performance to be unveiled at the event!

Come and join us!

Support the great cause that Literature for Life is proudly administering through the minds of young women, moms and their mamas. Take it from the many women that form the majority of The Gingerich Group - we pride ourselves of being strong, determined and ready to conquer the world. You can help out by making many more of us follow their path in life.

Tickets are on sale: $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

Buy them online now at http://www.literatureforlife.org or call Lauren at 416.686.7321 to reserve yours today.

You can also make a personal donation at http://www.literatureforlife.org and become a part of a great cause!

Oh, and did I mention that all proceeds from the event will go towards Literature for Life? We do it all for them and the young women, who must continue to be inspired.

GG Recommends

Lauren Shirreffs — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 13:07:00 EST

At GG, we love our pets. They are an extension of who we are, and bring us joy after a long day of work. It is quite likely one day you will stop into the showroom and one of us have brought our little furry joy’s into work.

Once in awhile we dedicate our blogs to a GG Recommends, and this entry will focus on what we recommend for your pets.. because they deserve nothing but the best.

Spaw Boutique

http://www.spawboutique.com/

852 King Street West

416.366.SPAW

Grooming professionals, dog lovers, and trained in the current and modern trends surrounding safe and hygienic techniques in grooming and maintenance. Catering their services specifically to your best friend, they are extremely careful, cautious and you leave your do gin the hands of a nurturing artist. Check out their menu for packages, specials and individualized sessions for your little buddy. AND they have daycare for packages up to 20 days. Check ‘em out.

What boggles my mind is the lack of cat specific grooming salons. Yes, cats lick themselves, but more often than not they still have to be groomed, trimmed, nails cut and dolled up! Shame on you, Toronto.

If you are having as much difficulty as me trying to find a place that will cater you’re your kitty’s every need, just call up a dog spa, they usually groom cats also but don’t advertise it (grrr).

Good luck on your pet ventures… send us recommendations for foods and other day cares you have used and are loyal to.

Happy Summer

Lauren Shirreffs — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST

Summer is here (officially, as of yesterday), and at the Gingerich Group we have the AC jacked and fans on full blast. If you have come by the showroom any time in the past few weeks, you would understand why we use so many different measures to keep us cool. Besides that we are running around, busy working on various projects… as we do this, we do it within an office situated in a building that is 100 years old.

If we didn’t love our showroom, we would complain more. However, it is a small price to pay when you are smack-dab in the centre of the city, next to Starbucks and a 2 second walk from good food in every direction.

There are a couple of things we recommend, from learning the hard way this summer so far:

1. If you walk in flip flips, no matter for how long, your feet WILL be black

2. Baby wipes are a great way to quickly cleanly your feet, thus avoiding embarrassing feet that look like you have run the a marathon in mud barefoot

3. Choosing the desk closest to the window… isn’t always the best idea

4. SPF is a MUST

5. You will get a ticket if you let your car linger even a few seconds too late on King Street

6. Colour is a great way to stand out, especially on the golf course

7. Avoid high chiropractic bills or visits to the masseuse by opting for a travel bag with wheels, ratehr than one you have to carry over your shoulder

8. An umbrella is a great way to keep shade, keep cool and not squint in the sunlight

9. A waterproof watch is a MUST. You might hit a beach, frequent a pool, or sweat more than a contestant on the Biggest loser

10. Choose colour over mutest hues, by brightening your outfit with a Swatch watch

It is important to have fun this season with colour, and Charmaine in the office is a great example of this. Always opting for sharp greens or electric purples, pink pants or fluorescent glows, Charm is our go-to on how to pair colours and make them work well (I, on the other hand, like my grey’s and slimming blacks).

To illustrate this point, and because I don’t like to wear bright coloured clothes, I throw colour into my (sometimes mundane) outfits with one (or 3) of our Swatch watch options.

Call Charmaine for your Swatch now, and freshen up your colour palette this summer.

charmaine@gingerich.ca

lauren@gingerich.ca

follow me on twitter: @laurenmarias

follow GG on twitter: @gingerichgroup

Shop Night Round Up

Lauren Shirreffs — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 10:58:00 EST

So yet again, our GG Shop Night was a success, fun networking event and a great opportunity to chat with clients, friends and colleagues.

With great brands just in time for Father's Day- everyone stocked up on something and no one left empty handed.

For those of you who couldn't make it- we live tweeted from the event, so you can catch up with us there or check out our pics on fb!

FB: http://on.fb.me/ipeDtM

Twitter: @gingerichgroup

GG Shop Night Part Two... Men's edition!

Lauren Shirreffs — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 15:05:00 EST

So, just in time for Father's Day, we have decided to host another GG Shop Night this upcoming Wednesday, June 15th at our 545 King St. West Showroom.

Back by popular demand, we are doing one last summer installment, until our next sale in September.

The sale starts at 5pm until 8:30pm, and beer/sushi will be available to nibble while you shop.

We do these events as appreciation to our clients, their clients, and our friends, as well as help with raising proceeds for Literature for Life.

This month's sale includes even more exciting vendors than last time:

Mooseknuckles

Ted Baker dress shirts

Greenshag bespoke dress shirts

AUR Polo's

Sunice Polo's

Calvin Klein and McGregor socks

Postage Denim

Jared Lang Shirts for men

Letts notebooks

... and accessories!

You don't want to miss this one! Email myself, Roger or Charmaine to rsvp!

lauren@gingerich.ca

charmaine@gingerich.ca

roger@gingerich.ca

Style Around Town

Raya Todorova — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 12:46:00 EST

The atmosphere at the GG Headquarters has been bubbling with excitement in the past weeks - we are not only excited to embark upon a variety of interesting projects/adventures, but also very enthused about the variety of talented people within our team.

Our newly appointed GG photographer has been working the streets of Downtown T-Dot, scouting the many fashionable individualities within the Financial and Fashion Districts.

A collaboration with TCHAD magazine is in the works in terms of Corporate Fashion, but today's style comes from the depths of the Queen & King Street areas. We passed many stylish people along the way, eager to pose for our camera - check out some of our favourites:

Who: Emma Barrett

Where: Queen Str. West

What: Throw a light cardigan over a striped shirt for some warm comfort on a chilly day

Who: Diane Nikoletos

Where: Urban Outfitters, Queen Street West

What: A pop of colour instantly refreshes a dark outfit

Who: Alex Holody - model

Where: Corner of Queen Str. West & Spadina Ave

What: Rain Boots on a rainy Toronto day

Who: Jonathan Nathaniel - personality

Where: Queen Street West

What: A classic silhouette in nautical colours

Who: Amanda Lains

Where: B2 on Queen Str. West

What: Denim - the go-to touch for this season

Who: Stuart Rice

Where: B2 on Queen Str. West

What: Denim Biker Jacket

Who: Alex Mack

Where: Corner of King West & Spadina Ave

What: Hooded leather jacket

Stay tuned for our next installments - as Roger likes to call them - continuing the ‘Style Around Town’ project: we will be capturing personalities around the very stylish Yorkville area and the vintage flare of Kensington Market.

Until then, follow us on our blog, Facebook and Twitter for daily updates.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GingerichGroup

Follow The Gingerich Group: @GingerichGroup

Follow Lauren: @LaurenMariaS

Follow Raya: @Asianbreed

Fashion Group International- Toronto Divison

Felicia Malovatski — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 14:59:00 EST

Who?

Fashion Group International is a global non-profit organization of fashions’ finest: designers and entrepreneurs, in more than thirty chapters around the world.

This industry provides a very high profile forum that promotes the fashion and beauty industry with 5000 members in the fashion industry from apparel, accessories, beauty and home.

Beginning in 1928, Fashion Group International started with 17 women meeting for lunch at a New York City restaurant, often with the Editor-in-chief of Vogue. The kept the common attribute of FGI being that all involved were connected in some way to the fashion industry. Since this time they ahve grown to differenet Chapters in many other countries and states.

At the Gingerich Group, Lauren Shirreffs sits on the board for Social Media endeavours, and Roger Gingerich is a supportive member. Each month the organization presents amazing lectures, events, networking opportunities for people in the industry by people with a passion for fashion.

FGI presents monthly events to members (and non-members) that are insightful and industry related, both beneficial to retailers, entrepreneurs and fashion/art/interior design lover.

In May, FGI Toronto presented an insider's view on how the interior design industry is changing. An esteemed panel of restaurant, retail and industrial designers offered their insight into the interior design world's influences, environmental impacts and technological innovations.

Other events include: trend forecasting with WGSN, social media lectures, beauty events, etc.

Also, last month FGI attended the annual regional directors conference and won an international award for programming.

Sound interesting? Want to become a part?

Check out their website and facebook page:

http://fgitorontomembers.org.memberlodge.org/

http://www.facebook.com/fgi.toronto