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. Hourly $35 - $40 USD