Freelance Visual Merchandiser

Location: New York, NYPosition Type: Freelance / ContractIndustry: Gift, Accessory & Specialty RetailExperience 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.