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I had the privilege of attending Spring Market in High Point a few weeks ago and let me tell you… it did NOT disappoint! Amazing products, people, educational events and of course, the food - yum! It’s hard to narrow down how to spend your time since it’s impossible to see it all.
My focus this time was on the educational events and seminars. There were so many amazing guest speakers who were so gracious to share their advice and tidbits. One notable one was from color expert Maria Killam who discussed past, current and future color trends. She advocated all for color; no need to play it safe. As a lover of neutrals, it was motivation to break outside my color box. Or rather, break INto it. I also sat in on a a very interesting one that focused on vacation rental homes (or STR - short term rentals). Who knew this market was becoming so hot?? Definitely something to think about. And if you're in the market to purchase something like this, I'm your girl to help get it remodeled and dressed up! And that goes for properties located anywhere because I've got all the tools to handle a project like that remotely - how cool??
One of THE biggest highlights, though, was the keynote speaker series sponsored by Loloi (that I somehow scored front row seats to!!), where Amber Lewis, Jean Stoffer, Joanna Gaines, Jesse Carrier & Mara Miller (from Carrier and Co) and Julia Marcum (from Chris Loves Julia) were featured. This was geared more towards the business side of design, appropriately titled "Designing a Business You Love". So often that part of the process is left in the dark, but the reality is, it’s crucial and such a key element to providing the best designs and service to my clients. Needless to say I left there with more fuel to my flame. Oh, and it was moderated by one of my favorite podcasters, Dennis Scully; truly a stunning panel:
When I wasn’t in one of the seven (yes, 7) seminars I participated in, I was drooling over all of the gorgeous showrooms. It was apparent that the trends right now are going back to natural elements. And color is making a bold appearance, too. Statement pieces in shades of plum, maroons, blues, greens and various shades of pinks were seen everywhere. And so much texture: rattan, wood, marble, and chunky/textured fabrics to name a few. I really loved seeing so much natural wood used and mixed in with a little of everything. Check out these stunners:
Most of these pieces are available to the trade only, so let me know if there's anything that catches your eye and I can get you the info. The wallpaper is from Tempaper, though, and you can view their product offering here. They have some super fun and easy to install options! The most eye catching category for me was by far the lighting. I kept finding more and more truly gorgeous pieces that I cannot wait to use! Matte black and brushed gold are still having their moment but we’re starting to see color here, too (especially white) paired with lots of natural elements, in keeping with the trend. Definitely more statement pieces rather than background pieces. Like, huge show stopping chandeliers and pendants. Here were some of my favorites:
It is a fast paced few days but sooo so beneficial to my business and what I provide to my clients. I’m already looking forward to Fall market this October!
