My First High Point Market:

And certainly not my last…

I read several blogs about preparing for High Point Market before my visit. However, nothing could prepare me for how exhilarating it was! My first High Point Market experience has been an unforgettable one, for many reasons.

I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the showrooms and sitting in ALL the sofas and chairs so I can share my experience when you’re shopping for the right pieces for your home. That’s what I love about the design community – there is truly something for everyone.

I saw many people I’ve been following on Instagram and even attended a panel by Justina Blakeney (Jungalow). There were so many incredible moments throughout my trip, leaving me forever changed.

I feel restored and inspired. As designers, we are people too, and we need to refill that inspirational cup! It fuels us and helps us create with a depth and understanding that’s difficult to describe with words. It’s felt.

Friday afternoon visit & Jaipur Living Housewarming:

My first experience of the market was a Friday afternoon trip to a vendor I’ll consider one of my home bases – Jaipur Living. When my Uber driver pulled up to the sidewalk for me to get out, I was nearly breathless, but I stepped out as they gave me words of encouragement. Armed with my best outfit, thanks to my incredible personal stylist, I was ready to crush my first exposure to the market. I felt good in my green top, comfy black jeans, and signature denim jacket.

I cannot describe how moving this experience was; there were several times I felt moved to tears out of the sheer magnitude of what this means for my business. After taking the escalator up to the top, I was greeted warmly and began to immerse myself in the showroom. There were fresh flowers everywhere, rugs hung about, and a colorful art installation to tie your hopes and wishes for the market as a place to share what’s on your heart.

Saturday morning: The High Point Market Insiders Tour Kick-off:

The morning began with a kick-off breakfast at the Universal showroom. Let me tell you, hospitality is second to none! This morning set the tone for my first successful High Point market experience.

I took this task solo, and I’m an introvert. What does that mean? I grabbed a coffee and stood at the beautiful live-edge finish table in the cafeteria, and waited for the start time since I arrived early.

After asking where the tour began, I was directed to the area where I needed to be and met another first-time visitor to the market, and we started chatting. Soon, I was met with others on our tour and met the lovely Rachel Moriarty (our excellent tour guide for the day). If you’ve never been to the market before or need a good way to get your feet wet, I highly recommend taking the Insiders Tour; be sure to sign up early. Also, pack your comfy walking shoes.

So, what did we do? We toured several showrooms and enjoyed the hospitality of our hosts at each stop along the way. I’ll let the pictures do the talking.

Do you have questions? Comment below, or send me an email or DM. I’d be happy to help!

Here are some other resources I found helpful when planning my trip:

Dakota Design | Interior Designer’s Guide to High Point Market

Nancy Lane Interiors | The Introvert’s Guide to High Point Market 

 

A few of my favorite moments from High Point Market | Fall 2022