News from ZenGenius Visual Merchants

ZenGenius Newsletter

November 2013 Volume 3 Issue 2

It's Fall, Y'all!

Crisp air, hot-cocoa and hoodies...it's what Fall is all about, right? This Fall is especially exciting for us because we are continuing our expansion into New York City. Offering everything from basic visual support to Creative Direction, our Visual Merchandising Gurus are excited and happy to help.

We've been quite busy since our last newsletter. Most notably, we're happy to announce that the 8th edition of our Iron Merchant Challenge at the International Retail Design Conference (IRDC) in Vancouver, Canada was a roaring success. We're honored to be part of this exceptional conference and can't wait to see what next year has to offer!

As always, we sincerely thank you for all that you do: your business, your support, your encouragement, your praise and your friendship. It means the world to us and helps to constantly remind us of why we do what we do. Thank you!

This Issue's Headliners


Zen Spotlight Congratulations to Molly Haring for accepting a Merchandising position in Mexico. We couldn't be more proud. Learn more.	2013 Iron Merchant Can you believe this is the 8th year for Iron Merchant?! This year's event was the best yet. Learn more.	Resident Diva Our very own Client Relations Manager, Rickelle, was recently recognized by a street blogger in Vancouver, Canada. Learn more.

Also in this Issue: Red Columbus Event, New Albany Classic, Halloween Costume Spotlight & Fun Fall Tips.

Zen Spotlight

Molly Haring is a Visual Merchandiser and Stylist at ZenGenius. She has been with us for 6 months, and has already landed an exciting international Visual Merchandising position.

My inspiration:

I am most inspired by true originals. People and objects that are unique and unlike any other.

My favorite part about working with ZG:
My favorite part about working for ZenGenius is that you never get bored. There are always new, creative and exciting opportunities to take part in.

A favorite project/experience:

My favorite project so far is the one I am currently a part of. My assignment with C&A as Visual Manager for women's apparel has been the greatest challenge and learning experience I have been a part of so far.

A random fun fact about me:
I am a tom boy at heart. On the weekends you can find me down by the river fishing with the boys, or camping and drinking beer. I also love to karaoke!

ARC Ohio RED Columbus Event

The RED Columbus event is an inaugural event benefiting the Aids Resource Center of Ohio, and we're so very honored to be part of it. This year's event honored the legendary Corbett Reynolds, a pioneer who worked to break down barriers and provide equal opportunities for gay people to live openly without fear.

The Wanderlust themed event was held in, you guessed it, an airplane hanger at the Columbus International Airport. As if this weren't exciting enough, we asked local designers to create over-the-top centerpiece displays that would later be part of a competition.

The funds raised from this event go directly towards assisting in providing meals, housing, healthcare, testing and prevention, counseling and more to those living with HIV and AIDS in Ohio. If you or someone you know needs assistance please contact the Aids Resource Center of Ohio.

2013 Iron Merchant Challenge

This year's Iron Merchant Challenge at the International Retail Design Conference took place in Vancouver, Canada at the Four Seasons Hotel and Conference Center. Knowing that this year's challenge was to be paired with the cocktail hour, we decided to throw in some unexpected twists to keep everyone on their toes. When the curtains were pulled back to reveal male mannequins dressed in Canadian Mountie Costumes - shock, excitement and applause filled the room.

All of the teams did an outstanding job, but when the votes were tallied there was one clear winner...the GREEN team, led by Amanda Wolfson of Oak Street Design! Congratulations, and we hope to see everyone again next year!

Click HERE to view an IRDC recap in VMSD Magazine, featuring a special article about The Iron Merchant Challenge.

New Albany Classic

It has always been an honor for us to be an integral part of The New Albany Classic fundraising event, and this year was no exception. In partnership with The Center for Family Safety and Healing, the New Albany Classic strives to raise funds so that communities can be stronger and healthier by breaking the cycle of family violence.

From the much anticipated equestrian show to the amusement park rides, this event has proven itself to be a true family function where memories are made and hope is restored.

Halloween Costume Spotlight

ZenGenius' Co-Founder, Mr. Paul Cook, in a hand-painted costume at this year's HighBall Halloween. As always, there were a lot of great costumes, but this one really knocked-our-socks-off. Way to go Paul...you outdid yourself yet again!

Resident Diva

She might be a mother of two beautiful children, but you won't find our Resident Diva, Rickelle, in mommy-jeans any day of the week. From her impeccable styling to her shoe collection that could render Joan Rivers speechless, she's sure to turn heads.

Turn heads she did when a photographer on the streets of Vancouver asked her to strike a pose for a local style blog.

Stay tuned as this first installment of Resident Diva continues. What will she wear next time?


IRDC Look 1	IRDC Look 2	IRDC Look 3

Martha, Martha, Martha!

At ZenGenius, we can't help but to love Martha Stewart. She's truly an inspiration and an incredibly talented women. Here are a few of our "favorite things" from her Fall collection.


Everybody Loves Glitter Quick and easy DIY glittered corn Thanksgiving centerpieces. Learn more.	Corkboard Leaf Trivet Spruce-up your table or serving buffet with festive DIY trivets this season. Learn more.	Thanksgiving Cocktail A pear-rosemary cocktail that's perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. Learn more.