Christian suppliers and retailers are bringing the great outdoors indoors with a plethora of products that target a hard-to-reach segment of the inspirational gift market—men.

From a waterproof Bible as well as hunting and fishing apparel worthy of Bass Pro Shops to mounted and framed art featuring vast canyons, winding rivers and majestic eagles, there appears to be countless SKUs of outdoor- and nature-themed items.

"It is a great growth category," said John O'Dell, co-owner of Christian Book Outlet (CBO), with seven locations in Arkansas and in Branson, Mo. "Lodge-themed décor continues to grow as it helps us all bring the wonder of God's great outdoors indoors. ... This category will continue to grow to meet the demand and need to bring faith to the forefront of everything we do."

CBO's large inventory features 45 products, including Bible covers, camouflage Bibles, clocks, gift books, antler-art crosses, wallets, tapestries, "Spiritual Outdoor Adventures" DVDs and golf-themed gifts.

"The outdoors seem to resonate with everybody," said O'Dell, noting that best-selling items include Western-themed wall crosses, T-shirts and camouflage Bibles. "It sells year round—peaking in the fourth quarter. Our customers desire to not only give outdoor-themed gifts, but ones that celebrate the Creator of it all as well."

Read the complete report in the March issue of Inspirational Gift Mart, a supplement to Christian Retailing.

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