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.