Welcome to High Point Market—aka the interior design Olympics, minus the spandex (unless that’s your thing). Whether you’re a first-timer wondering if it’s worth the hype, or a seasoned pro looking to up your Market game, we’ve got the hot tips to make your trip as stylish as your latest project.
Why High Point Market is a big deal
High Point Market isn’t just a trade show. It’s the trade show. Think Coachella, but with fewer flower crowns and way more accent chairs. Here’s why you need to go:
Product Playground: Sit, touch, lounge, and judge. You’ll build confidence in the pieces you sell because you’ve actually experienced them IRL.
Networking Nirvana: Rub elbows with design royalty, vendors, and future besties.
Money Moves: Learn the fine art of wholesale. Spoiler: It’s where the profit happens.
Know your why before you fly
Before you book that flight, pause. Ask yourself: What’s my Market mission? Are you hunting for the perfect velvet sofa? Looking to collect vendor contacts like Pokémon cards? Or just there for the free swag? Whatever it is, having goals helps you conquer Market like a boss.
Prep like a pro
Book Early or Regret It: Want the cute hotel with the good coffee? Book six months out. Procrastinators get what’s left.
Location, Location, Location: High Point itself? Cute, but limited hotels. Check out Winston-Salem or Greensboro and make sure there’s a shuttle if you didn’t rent a car.
Transport Hacks: Shuttles are your new best friend. Cars? Meh, unless you love the freedom and don’t mind parking off-site and shuttling in each day.
Surviving (and thriving) at Market
App Life: The High Point Market app is your holy grail. Favorite your vendors, map your route, and feel like the organized genius you are.
Divide & Conquer: Traveling with a squad? Split up. You’ll cover more ground and have more gossip to share at dinner.
Vendor Playbook: Make appointments with key vendors. It’s like speed dating, but for sofas.
What to pack
Comfy Chic: Look cute, but prioritize comfort. This isn’t the runway; it’s a marathon. Sneakers > stilettos.
Bag Essentials: Phone charger (duh), snacks (double duh), business cards, and a jacket for surprise A/C battles.
Project Stuff: Swatches, measurements, client notes—you know, the usual designer magic.
Market day must-do's
Seminar Surfing: Catch panels with industry rockstars. Learn stuff. Be inspired. Feel fancy.
Vendor Chats: Don’t just look—ask questions. Where do they ship from? What’s their MOQ? Is this chair actually comfortable, or just good-looking?
Content is Queen: Snap pics, shoot videos, talk to yourself on camera. Everyone’s doing it, so no judgment.
Post-Market decompression
Photo Detox: Sort your pics, organize your notes, and wonder why you took 47 blurry shots of the same lamp.
Vendor Follow-Ups: Send those emails while you’re still riding the Market high.
Self-Care: Hydrate, nap, maybe schedule a massage. Market is fun, but it’s also A LOT.
Final words of wisdom
High Point Market is equal parts thrilling and exhausting—like a design-themed rollercoaster. But with a little planning, a good pair of sneakers, and a sprinkle of networking courage, you’ll come back inspired, connected, and ready to slay your next project.
🎧 Got Market questions? Head to highpointmarket.org. And give Episode 139 a listen on your favorite podcast platform. We’ll see you in High Point, designers!
