Spring High Point Market Recap: Where Business Meets Fun!
By Haley Hinson
“Meeting our DSA members at High Point Market was truly delightful! Not only did I immerse myself in the latest design trends, but I also had the pleasure of reconnecting with beloved designers like Vern Yip and Martin Bullard. High Point never fails to deliver exciting surprises!” –Natasha Younts, President, DSA.
“Meeting our DSA members at High Point Market was truly delightful! Not only did I immerse myself in the latest design trends, but I also had the pleasure of reconnecting with beloved designers like Vern Yip and Martin Bullard. High Point never fails to deliver exciting surprises!” –Natasha Younts, President, DSA.
High Point Market isn't just an event; it’s an experience. High Point Market is many things: a showcase of the best in home furnishings, a rich platform for education and networking opportunities, and a joyful homecoming for individuals in our industry. Between April 13-17, designers, industry professionals and enthusiasts alike converged upon High Point, North Carolina, for a whirlwind of inspiration, education and connection. If you missed it, fear not; we’ve got the highlights just for you!
Picture this: showroom after showroom bursting with meticulous design, thousands of new products vying for your attention and educational sessions led by industry veterans. That’s High Point Market in a nutshell. But it’s not just about business; it’s about having fun while you’re at it.
The Spring High Point Market showcased a kaleidoscope of home furnishings, from timeless classics to avant-garde pieces that push the boundaries of design. With more than 11.5 million square feet of showrooms, it’s a playground for design enthusiasts seeking inspiration at every turn.
But it’s not just about admiring beautiful furniture; it’s about cultivating a growth mindset. The educational opportunities at High Point Market are unparalleled, with seasoned industry voices leading discussions on the latest trends and innovations.
Insider's tour group with designer, Amber Lewis (center), tour guide/designer, Rasheeda Gray (right of center), and myself, Haley Hinson (back right)
Haley Hinson, DSA’s Marketing and Operations Coordinator, recounted, “As a newcomer to High Point Market, I was advised to take an insider’s tour, and I’m so glad I did. Through the curated tour, I was able to see a plethora of showrooms showcasing everything from upholstery to case goods, accessories, lighting and more. Walking through High Point Market, I was floored by its sheer size! But amidst the hustle, I found moments of connection, and chatting with fellow enthusiasts and industry pros gave me a whole new perspective on the art and business of design. All in all, my first High Point Market was a whirlwind of discovery, camaraderie and a newfound appreciation for the endless creativity in this industry.”
Networking isn’t just a buzzword at High Point Market, it’s a way of life. From formal events to chance encounters in the aisles, the market provides ample opportunities to expand your professional network and gain fresh perspectives.
And when the day’s business is done, it’s time to unwind. Live music, delicious food and plenty of memorable moments await, helping ensure your High Point Market experience is as enjoyable as it is productive.
One of the standout sessions at this year’s market was the Encore Keynote, “Designing a Business that Endures.” Design stars Joanna Gaines, Amber Lewis, Brigette Romanek and Leanne Ford shared their insights on building a resilient design-oriented business in today’s ever-changing landscape.
But the innovation didn’t stop there. Attendees also had an opportunity to explore the intersection of technology and design at events like “Transformative Tech: How Designers Are Using Technology for New Revenue Streams” brought to you by our friends at Mydoma.
Photographed left to right: Eoin Harrington, Caroline Simmel, Margie Kaercher, Buffy Ferguson, Courtney Collins and Laurie Laizure
Three designers, Jenna Gaidusek, John McLain and Nile Johnson, spoke on the importance of staying up to date in the ever-changing technology landscape. They spoke on the immense usefulness of Mydoma, along with discussing the use of AI and other innovative design packages.
DSA’s very own Laurie Laizure also hosted the panel “Furniture Showrooms Reimagined: New Revenue Streams for Designers,” featuring Eoin Harrington, Founder and CEO of MINE. These discussions left attendees inspired to harness the power of technology to drive their businesses forward.
Laizure, Founder of Interior Design Community, perfectly summed up her market experience with, “High Point Market is so much more than shopping! Where else can you meet and learn from the greatest minds in interior design, while also connecting with fellow colleagues and keeping yourself educated about the very best offerings there are in design worldwide?
High Point Market is the fashion week of furniture, and there is no better place to absorb and re-energize your creativity. I always tell designers to plan on networking with peers, attend educational sessions that they need for their businesses, capture content for social media, and scope out products for clients and think upsell and time of year. For example, during High Point Market, check out outdoor furnishing, lighting, rugs and accessories that your clients might like to use for refreshing.”
High Point Market isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of design, innovation and community. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, education or simply a good time, it has something for everyone. So, mark your calendars for Fall High Point Market, and join us for an unforgettable experience!
Style Spotters Link
HPMKT Link
Market Dates
2024
Spring: April 13-17
Fall: October 26-30
2025
Spring: April 26-30
Fall: October 25-29
2026
Spring: April 25-29
Fall: October 17-21
Plan your trip.
DSA members are privy to numerous Trade Discounts, Affiliations/ Industry Partners, and Industry Resources.
Trade Discounts are offered to Interior Design Professionals, "Professionals of the Trade."
To establish accounts with Showrooms, Industry Partners, and Vendors, members must provide the following:
Your Company Name
Tax ID#
Professional Membership Affiliation "DSA" Designer Society of America and Member Numb