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.