As part of our International Women’s Day celebrations, we wanted to take a moment to reflect not only on the inspiring women across The Giftware Association community, but also within our own team. Behind the scenes, our team works closely with members across the gift, home and lifestyle sector every day - building connections and supporting creativity across the industry. International Women’s Day is a chance for us to share what the day means to us personally and why celebrating women in our industry matters.

Gemma Sault – Managing Director, The Giftware Association

International Women’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to pause, reflect and celebrate the incredible women who make our industry what it is.

The giftware, home and lifestyle sector is full of talented, creative and driven women, from designers and founders to buyers, makers and leaders.

Today is about recognising those achievements, but it’s also a reminder that supporting one another really matters, now more than ever.

At The Giftware Association, we often talk about the joy of giving, and how we can all give to gain, and International Women’s Day is a perfect moment to bring that to life. When we give support, encouragement, time or a helping hand, we all benefit. We gain stronger businesses, fresh ideas and a more connected, resilient industry.

Giving doesn’t have to be big or complicated. It might be mentoring someone just starting out, championing a women-led brand, sharing advice, making an introduction or simply using your voice to lift others up.

These small acts add up and they make a real difference.

I’m incredibly proud of our community at The Giftware Association: one that values collaboration, celebrates success and creates space for women to thrive. By continuing to give to one another, we strengthen not just individuals, but our entire sector.

Let’s keep giving because when we do, we truly all gain.

Victoria-Louise – Head of Membership

Building on that sense of community and support, Vicky reflects on the inspiring journeys she has seen across the industry during her time working within the sector.

In the time I’ve been part of the gift industry, I’ve had the privilege of watching so many incredible women shape it with generosity, warmth and unbelievable strength.

I’ve seen women begin at their kitchen tables with an idea and, through sheer passion, drive and determination, grow into respected leaders within our industry. And equally, I’ve seen those who have been here for decades offering advice, encouragement and a helping hand to the next generation as they navigate business.

That spirit of support, resilience and community is something truly special to us. On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the women who continue to build, lead and inspire across our industry.

Sequoia Horton – Membership Engagement Manager

To me, International Women’s Day is so important because it shines a light on the resilience, creativity and power of women. For years, women – mothers, sisters, daughters etc,. – have been the driving force behind the gifting industry, curating the moments that matter most. That kind of ‘magic’ is powerful, and it deserves to be seen, valued and celebrated.

Greta Baker – PR & Marketing Manager 

Working closely with members across the industry, I’m constantly reminded of just how many talented women are building and running creative businesses within the gift and home sector.

One of the most rewarding parts of my role is helping share those stories - from new brands launching their first collections to established businesses continuing to grow. Behind so many of the products we see in shops and homes are women who have taken an idea, turned it into something real, and kept pushing forward through the challenges that come with running a business.

International Women’s Day is a great moment to recognise that creativity. It’s also a reminder of how important it is to make sure the women behind these stories are seen and celebrated.

From our team to the wider community of designers, founders, buyers, makers and leaders across the gift and home sector, we wish everyone a very happy International Women’s Day.