Lovely day when my friend Debbe Daley and I met Dr Susy Paisley, founder of Newton Paisley. Her stunning designs share the stories of endangered and overlooked species while celebrating their remarkable diversity and beauty.
Every year, High Point Market (HPMKT) is a must-attend event for interior designers, but for me, it’s more than just a trade show—it’s an experience that inspires my designs, strengthens my vendor relationships, and expands what I can offer my clients.
From the moment I step onto the show floors, I’m not just browsing furniture—I’m curating an experience for my clients. The sofa I sink into today might be the one a family gathers on for movie nights in their home theater. The textile I run my hands over might be the one that makes a bedroom feel like a luxury retreat. And those stunning acoustic panels? They’ll be part of a space that not only looks incredible but sounds just as amazing.
Vendor Relationships: The Backbone Of A Designer’s Work
Always love visiting with my friend Carol who founder Red Egg Furniture to share a cultural and design aesthetic that truly inspires her. Asian inspired with a twist, a true gem at HPMKT!
As a designer, I don’t work alone—I have an entire network of skilled vendors, artisans, and manufacturers that help me bring my vision (and my clients’ dreams) to life.
HPMKT gives me the chance to put a name to the faces behind these brands and build relationships that make all the difference. When I need a custom dining table for a unique space or the perfect performance fabric that balances beauty and durability, I know exactly who to call. These relationships allow me to source better, problem-solve faster, and offer my clients exclusive options that aren’t just beautiful, but built to last.
Opportunities To Learn & Grow
I absolutely loved meeting Maya Crowne, co-founder of Alkemis Paint a Cradle to Cradle Certified®, it is ethically crafted to promote cleaner breathing and a more harmonious lifestyle.
One of the most valuable aspects of HPMKT is the training and education available. As designers, we never stop learning—about materials, innovations, sustainability, and the psychology of spaces.
Workshops and panels offer insights into emerging design trends, business strategies, and sourcing secrets. The best part? These lessons don’t just stay at Market—they influence the way I approach every project.
A Hands-On Approach To Design
Spending time with Splashworks’ Tom Van Dessel. We created one of a kind pieces for a lovely client who had the artwork commissioned for his project. It is relationships like these that help me curate one-of-a-kind experiences for my clients.
There’s only so much you can see in a catalog or online—design is a sensory experience. At Market, I can:
✔ Touch and feel the textiles that will drape my clients' windows.
✔ Test out the ergonomics of a chair that will sit in a home office for hours a day.
✔ Hand-select the artwork that will become the focal point of a space.
✔ Examine the details of a casegood, ensuring the craftsmanship meets my standards.
This hands-on approach ensures that when I present options to my clients, I know exactly what I’m recommending—because I’ve sat in it, felt it, and seen it in person.
Expanding What I Can Offer My Clients
Every trip to HPMKT adds another layer to what I bring to my clients. I return with:
✨ Fresh ideas and inspiration from beautifully curated showrooms.
✨ Stronger relationships with vendors and manufacturers.
✨ Exclusive access to new products before they hit the mainstream market.
✨ Confidence in my selections, knowing I’ve personally tested and approved them.
Design isn’t just about making a space look good—it’s about creating an experience, enhancing functionality, and delivering quality that stands the test of time.
Looking Ahead To HPMKT 2025
This year is extra special because I’ll be leading an Insider’s Tour at HPMKT! Seven years ago, I attended my first Market as a tour participant, and now, I have the opportunity to guide new buyers through this incredible experience. It’s a full-circle moment, and I can’t wait to help others build the relationships and insights that have been so valuable to me.
If you’re a first-time attendee, I’d love to connect and help you navigate this exciting event. Whether you’re on my tour or just attending Market, I encourage you to explore, ask questions, and take full advantage of the opportunities here.
HPMKT isn’t just about furniture—it’s about building a foundation for better design, stronger businesses, and long-lasting partnerships. And I, for one, can’t wait to be back.
📢 Are you attending High Point Market this year? Let’s connect! Drop a comment or send me a DM!