If you’ve ever wondered what designers actually do at High Point Market, here’s the behind-the-scenes scoop—and why it matters for your home or vacation rental.
The “Slow Market” That Opened Everything Up
A few years back, right before the world paused, I’d already been to High Point Market, but felt like I’d only skimmed the surface. So I signed up for designer Laura Thurman’s “First-Timer” tour to see Market with fresh eyes. Then COVID hit, crowds thinned, and Market moved at a gentler pace. Honestly? That slower rhythm was a gift. I could linger, ask better questions, and find showrooms I’d never have reached on my own.
When the world revved back up, I signed up again, this time I was able to attend Laura’s tour, and it was eye-opening. We explored hidden-gem vendors, hopped the Go-Anywhere Shuttle to out-of-the-way buildings, and I started building relationships that now shape my sourcing year-round. Eventually, I became a co-leader of the Collected and Curated Tour at High Point Market alongside my designer friend Debbe Daley, and hands down, one of the best parts of my work is introducing designers, both new and seasoned, to corners of Market they didn’t know existed.
Three Vendors My Clients (And Dogs :-) Love
ALOKA quilts
At home, our leather sofas wear the softest, coziest quilts, because we’ve lovingly “inherited” a few dogs (you know how that goes). The quilts look beautiful, protect the leather, and fit our aesthetic. I first met Amy of ALOKA on Laura’s tour, and I’ve been obsessed ever since. They bring heritage Indian textiles back into everyday life, photogenic, practical, and pet-friendly. Translation for my clients: elevated, durable layers that still feel luxe.
red egg (hi, Carol!)
red egg’s customizable pieces are endlessly fun, sculptural shapes, color stories that sing, and made-to-order flexibility so we can nail proportions for city condos or sprawling vacation homes. It’s perfect when a project needs a signature moment that photographs like a dream (hello, listing thumbnail).
Photo courtesy of Cisco Furniture
Cisco Home
Bench-made in the USA with an emphasis on quality, comfort, and customization. Need performance fabrics, slipcovers, or a silhouette scaled for a tighter living room? Done. These are the kind of investments that stand up to real life, kids, guests, and the occasional golden retriever cameo.
Why Market Matters For You
Whether you’re a busy professional designing a forever home or a vacation rental owner focused on ROI, the right Market connections (through your designer) unlock options you won’t see in big-box catalogs’ luxury interior design with durable and stylish furniture, custom vacation rental design, and pieces that balance local flair with modern comfort.
What that means in practice:
Customization without chaos – We tailor scale, color, and materials to your space and lifestyle, then handle the details with a clear, step-by-step workflow from concept to install.
Photo-worthy and practical – Think performance textiles, smart seating counts, blackout where it matters, and layouts that feel intuitive for families and groups.
ROI-minded choices – Upgrades that guests notice (and pay for): coffee bars, statement art, cozy layers, outdoor moments like fire pits or pergolas—chosen to fit your story and market.
Peace of mind – We design for real life: kids, pets, sandy feet; and prioritize materials and pieces that last, so you’re not re-buying every season.
How My Market Sourcing Translates To Your Project
Here’s how those showroom discoveries become a home (or rental) you’re proud of:
Story & Strategy – We start with your goals and guest avatar (if it’s a rental), so every piece supports the experience you want to create.
Plan the Upgrades – From seating counts to that eye-catching headboard or an outdoor fire pit, we map the moves that will actually move the needle.
Source With Intention – Using my Market network, we select customizable, high-quality pieces that fit your budget and timeline. (Think: Cisco sofas with performance slipcovers, red egg statement desk and coffee table, ALOKA quilts layered for texture.)
Install & Enjoy – The result? A space that feels effortless, layered, and built to last—whether it’s for everyday family life or five-star guest reviews.
Who This Is Perfect For
My clients are typically time-pressed professionals and design-curious homeowners who value quality, function, and a polished, welcoming vibe. Many also own (or are considering) vacation rentals and want a designer who understands both comfort and returns. If that’s you, you’re in the right place.
FAQs from Homeowners & Vacation Rental Owners
1. How does High Point Market benefit my home or vacation rental?
High Point Market gives designers access to furniture, lighting, textiles, and finishes that aren’t available through retail channels. That means that the years we spend growing our network and resources, bring you more customization, better quality, and pieces selected specifically for your space, whether the goal is everyday comfort or creating a rental that stands out and performs.
2. Does sourcing from Market mean everything will be expensive?
Not necessarily. Market offers a wide range of price points. What matters most is strategic sourcing, knowing where to invest, where to customize, and how to balance durability, style, and budget. This approach helps clients avoid overbuying, and focus on upgrades and quality that truly matter and make for a better investment.
3. How does Market sourcing support better reviews and ROI for vacation rentals?
Market-sourced pieces often offer performance fabrics, better scale, and thoughtful customization. Pieces are built to last and look good a lot longer than the big box stores. These details improve comfort, flow, and photography. All three directly impact guest satisfaction, reviews, and booking rates.
4. Will this type of sourcing slow my project down?
Sourcing from some of these vendors could take a bit longer, but clear sourcing plans often save time. When selections are made intentionally, with lead times, customization, and logistics considered upfront, projects move more smoothly and with fewer surprises.
5. Is this level of design help only available for large projects?
No. Even smaller projects benefit from professional sourcing and planning. Thoughtful upgrades, like a statement bed, comfortable seating, or layered textiles, can dramatically elevate a space without requiring a full redesign.
Ready To See The Difference A Market Eye Can Make?
Let’s talk about your project, what you love, what you need, and how to make it happen without the overwhelm. Book Your Complimentary Discovery Call and we’ll map your next best steps together. (P.S. I’ll show you how small design choices can create big, ROI-friendly impact.)
Are You A Designer? Join The Spring 2026 High Point Market First-Timer Tour!
Ready to experience Market with a guide who knows the hidden gems? Our small-group tour blends insider access, vendor introductions (think vendors like ALOKA, red egg, Cisco Home- the vendors change every market ;-), and a thoughtfully paced route, so you leave with a clear sourcing plan (and serious confidence).
What’s included: curated route • showroom intros • time-saving shuttle strategy • sourcing tips
Who it’s for: first-timers and seasoned designers who want fresh vendors and photo-worthy, ROI-minded finds
Spots: limited to keep it personal
FAQs For Designers New To High Point Market
1. Is High Point Market worth attending if I’m a newer designer?
Yes, especially when you attend with guidance. Market can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s one of the best places to build sourcing confidence, discover new vendors, and understand how customization really works. A curated experience helps you get real value right away.
2. What do designers actually do at High Point Market?
Designers source furniture and materials, learn about new collections, ask questions about lead times and customization, and build relationships with vendors. These relationships shape future projects long after Market ends.
3. I don’t have many trade accounts yet. Can I still attend?
Absolutely. Market is often where those relationships begin. Vendors welcome newer designers, especially when introductions are thoughtful and professional. Learning how to approach showrooms is part of the value of attending with a guide.
4. How is a guided Market tour different from going on my own?
A guided tour offers a clear route, time-saving shuttle strategies, vendor context, and curated introductions. Instead of wandering or guessing, you understand why certain showrooms matter and how to use what you find in real projects.
5. Who is the First-Timer Tour best suited for?
The tour is ideal for first-time attendees, designers who’ve been before but felt overwhelmed, and those who want fresh vendors, sourcing confidence, and a more strategic approach to Market, without the pressure to see everything.