Visual Merchandiser

Freelance Visual Merchandiser  Location: New York, NY Position Type: Freelance / Contract  Industry: Gift, Accessory & Specialty Retail  Experience Level: Senior (10–15+ years)  About the Role  We are seeking an experienced, creative, and highly independent Freelance Visual Merchandiser with deep expertise in the gift and accessory merchandising space. This role is ideal for a seasoned professional who can take ownership of execution at tradeshows, drive engagement through compelling presentation, and elevate brand experience. Local candidates only - on-site presence and brand familiarity are essential.    Upcoming Project Dates:   - Set-Up:     January 30:  5PM – 10PM  January 31 – February 2: 8:30AM – 9PM - Tear Down:  February 5; 4:45PM – 10PM  February 6: 8AM – 6PM     Key Responsibilities  - Design & Execution  - Implement visually compelling displays (product groupings, seasonal themes) which reflect brand identity and maximize sales.  - Utilize lighting, props, signage, fixtures, and layout strategies to enhance the customer experience and guide purchasing behavior.  - Maintain visual standards consistently across installations.  - Strategic Merchandising  - Execute merchandising aligned with seasonal campaigns and business goals.  - Stay current with retail design trends and consumer preferences in gifts, accessories and lifestyle merchandising.  Required Qualifications  - 10–15+ years of proven visual merchandising experience, ideally within the gift, accessory, lifestyle, or specialty retail sectors.  - Strong independent thinker capable of owning execution with minimal oversight.  - Exceptional aesthetic sensibility, attention to detail, and an advanced understanding of display principles and consumer psychology.  - Excellent communication and collaboration.  - Comfortable working on-site during pre-show set-updates; ability to lift at least 50lbs / move display components and process inventory when necessary.  - Has the knowledge in using power tools, hand tools, and comfortable with using ladders.  - Extended standing, physical aspects of the job (heavy lifting at time)  - Portfolio demonstrating past work in visual merchandising, especially within gift/accessory displays preferred.  What We’re Looking For  We want someone who:  - Thinks creatively and strategically in a fast-paced environment  - Makes decisions with confidence.  - Delivers polished, brand-elevating visuals.  - Has a deep passion for visual storytelling and an eye for compelling wholesale/tradeshow presentations.