Vera Bradley Tops 2009 Vendor List

Good news for Chamber member Vera Bradley. They have been named "Vendor of the Year" by the National Trade Magazine Gift Beat. If you're from Fort Wayne, you are probably familiar with Vera Bradley, but just in case: they produce specially designed handbags, stationery, travel and eyewear. Started by two friends locally in 1982 with a $500 investment, they have grown into a national trend. Vera Bradley products have even appeared on several shows and movies, and were included in celebrity gift lounges at the 2009 Tony and Daytime Emmy Awards.

Wow. All of that to say - they're doing pretty well! Cheri Lantz, Vera Bradley's VP of Sales, says "It is quite an honor to be awarded nationally as the company that contributed the most to the bottom line of gift stores across the county. Last year, we were number three on the list; It feels great to move up to number one!"

Here's the list that they have topped for 2009!

1) Vera Bradley
2) Demdaco
3) Brighton
4) Yankee
5) Ganz
6) Enesco
7) Pandora
8) Grasslands Road/Amscan
9) Evergreen
10) Virginia Candle