Kate Schildwaster

Syracuse,  NY — Every year, attendees of the Emmy awards are sent home with elaborate gift bags containing unique gifts from across the country.  This year, a Syracuse-based adornment retailer, Nanalulu’s Linens and Handkerchiefs, has been chosen to donate to the event.

Two weeks ago, Luanne Reilly Oda, owner of Nanalulu’s, was contacted by Off The Wall Gifts and asked to contribute to the S.W.A.G. bags that will be given to the 800 attendees of this year’s 32nd Annual News & Documentary Emmy Awards on September 26,  2011 in New York City.  This year marks a momentous occasion, as Larry King will be receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award for his distinguished work in broadcasting.

Val Wilson of Off the Wall Gifts, the official gift organizer for the 32nd News and Documentary Emmy awards, appreciated Nanalulu’s creativity.  “We try to find smaller companies that have been up and coming and have the potential to grow, sort of the ‘Oprah effect,” Wilson said.  Nanalulu’s Linens and Handkerchiefs is one of only 30 companies invited to participate, all vital, small businesses.

Luanne’s mother inspired her to become an entrepreneur.  They opened their first gift shop together in 1975.  “My mom taught me to love ‘old’ and treasured things, and I’ve tried to pass this appreciation on to my own children and grandchildren.”  As a tribute to her mother, Luanne will include a special memory in the packages she sends to the Emmys- a recipe for orange cupcakes that they used to bake together when Luanne was a young girl.   Along with the recipe card, the gifts will include autumn-themed cupcake liners and cupcake toppers that are available for sale on the company website.

The final product

Luanne has been operating Nanalulu’s Linens & Handkerchiefs out of her home for six years.  The name Nanalulu was given to her by her oldest granddaughter, Breanna, one of ten grandchildren.  The mission of Nanalulu’s is to provide customers with yesteryear’s charms in today’s hectic world.  Luanne started out specializing in antique linens and handkerchiefs but quickly branched out.  Recently their bestsellers have been products for the cupcake craze.  When asked about her success Luanne said, “I seem to have a knack for pegging the next big trend or that one of a kind gift.”

The deadline was tight, but with the help of friends and family, Luanne was able to package 800 gifts for television and print’s most famous faces.  “It’s an honor to be asked to be a part of the Emmy awards,” she said.  “I just hope Larry King likes cupcakes.”