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By the time you read this article, things could be drastically different than they were at the completion of its writing. The perilous state of the economy and consumer reaction to the hourly happenings on the world stage make predictions tenuous at best. However, the one thing that has resonated from kitchenware vendors is a sense of optimism as they note that the industry benefits whether a bull or bear market. After all, people gotta eat. »

Today's home entertainers would be remiss if they planned the perfect party only to set the tone of the evening by starting out with a bowl of chips and a cocktail served in an everyday tumbler. It's up to you to make sure these entertainment faux pas don't occur to customers on your shift. »

You have the best flatware, beautiful dinnerware, and the perfect glasses. But as they say, it's all in the details. It takes more than the basics to set today's table. Asparagus tongs, chenille table runners, resin trivets, and sensual serving dishes add the finishing touches and therefore, unforgettable finesse that comprises an elegant table for home entertaining. »

The first man-made implement -- the knife -- was born of necessity. The necessity of having to cut up their food drove our ancestors to fashion that rudimentary knife 2.5 million years ago by striking stones and pebbles against each other to make a crude cutting edge. »

Glance around your store right now. Do you have any displays showcasing today's bakeware trends? If not, then consider this -- in the four channels tracked by NPD HomeTrak, the bakeware market through June 2001 was up three percent due to the purchase of 16.5 million units year-to-date and overall sales of $133 million. »

Measurements in the kitchen are a requisite procedure cooks have respected for centuries. You'll certainly be your customers' hero if you educate -- or re-educate -- them about the necessity of precise measurements while cooking and baking. »

Childhood memories of my grandmother's house revolve around little glass baskets filled with candy and ornate glass cake pedestals topped with her famous lemon cake. I don't believe it was the glass that impressed me then, but it is what impresses me today. »