Rocky Mountain Review

Traveling to gift shows is always fun and exciting, but when you add the potential for being caught in a snow storm at the place you're visiting, that predicament might put a damper on the enjoyment.

I've traveled to Denver since 1996 to attend the Denver Merchandise Mart show, situated in a permanent showroom building which houses many gift basket products with a southwestern flair.

Luck has been on my side, but then I looked out my hotel window and saw snow pouring onto the streets. Had my luck change? I'd find out later that day while on my way to the airport.

River Rocks are a popular treat in gift baskets, and Denver's gourmet wholesalers pack these crunchy confections in clear plastic bags, small square boxes and tall candy bags. These rocks, which resemble pebbles, are chocolate nuggets dipped into a candy coating, which hardens around the chocolate. The color reminds you of small rocks found in a low stream.

Several companies sell the rocks, including a Colorado-based woman who also makes chocolate spoons using the creamiest chocolate I've ever tasted.

This talented lady also makes Moose Droppings, a clever name for chocolate-covered nuts packaged in clear bags. The droppings, which are also labeled as Elk, Deer and other wild game, are great for men's gift baskets.

More men's products were waiting for me in a showroom just steps away. I found two fly swatters cleverly created using fishing pole and golf club handles. The price was just $4.50 and either item would make a great Father's Day gift by itself or added to a basket.

Another company, which represents many product lines, sells popcorn in tall bags ranging in price from 80 cents to $1.70. They also sell Celebration Cakes, which are mixes to make a small cake for any occasion. Water is added to the cake mix, then microwaved directly in the packaging. The birthday cake includes a balloon, horn and one candle to top the cake. Gift basket designers are wild about this product.

All the details about what I saw at the Denver Merchandise Mart are located in the Members Only section of GiftBasketBusiness.com, along with reports from the New York and California shows. You'll find information on joining Members Only at http://www.GiftBasketBusiness.com/member...

When I exited the Mart later that day, the sun was shining and the snow melting. My flight was listed as "on time," which made my long trip home a pleasure.

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