Last week I headed into NYC for a series for deskside meetings with various editors at top magazines like Woman’s Day, Allure, People, More, Health, Parents, etc. The purpose of these meetings is to get your products in front of the editors, present samples, and answer any questions they have. Even more importantly, it provides a chance to pick their brain about how your product will fit into their publication, which products they are actively seeking, and what specific issues they are closing. Here are a few tidbits from the meetings you might find interesting:

• Many are closing up October and working on November. Meaning that the December gift guides for many are still wide open (though they are actively seeking products).
• Most do not know their theme yet for the gift guide or round-up, but have an idea based on prior years what they are looking for.
• New launches are most important. Anything new launching for the holiday is often more appealing than products already on the market.
• List of retail stores is important for placements. Although selling online is great, the wider the availability – the better.
• Bring samples and a media kit to leave behind. Your contents can simply be a press release and product catalog with photos, descriptions and prices.