What I Learned at High Point Market: 3 Takeaways for Interior Designers

A behind-the-scenes look at the panels, conversations, and big-picture ideas that made this spring’s High Point Market unforgettable—and what they mean for the way we design, market, and connect.

I came home from High Point Market with a head full of ideas, a few new vendor crushes, and a deeper sense of clarity about what it really takes to build an enduring design business right now. Beyond the showroom trends and beautiful product launches, the conversations happening in the panel rooms were where the real sparks flew. 

In this post, I’m sharing three of the most powerful takeaways—insights that left me inspired not just as a designer, but as a business owner, a storyteller, and a human doing creative work in a chaotic world.

(Plus I’m weaving in a few design trends I spotted along the way) 

Spotted? Playful Color & Pattern | Designers are leaning all the way into joy. Think richly layered prints, saturated upholstery, and a fearless mix of hues that feel both curated and energetic.

SESSION #1 TAKEAWAY: Beyond the Bottom Line - The Overlooked Areas of Business to Review Annually

The conversation inside this session was less about design and more about what keeps a business healthy behind the scenes: operations, branding, and client experience.

Here were a few standout themes that had me nodding along (and scribbling notes):

1. Profitability means pivoting.
From downsizing offices to delegating more, the message was clear: smart systems > square footage. Several panelists shared how shifting to virtual assistants and letting go of outdated processes helped them tighten up and become more profitable—without sacrificing service.

2. Branding isn’t a one-and-done.
Antonio’s brand audit was especially memorable. He archived 2,000 Instagram photos (yes, really), revamped his proposals and visuals, and even self-published a coffee table book to align with his move to NYC and his new luxury clientele. A strong reminder that our digital footprint should reflect where we're going—not just where we've been.

3. Client experience is your secret weapon.
Laura shared her system for creating “Mojo moments” (think: personalized gifts, beautiful client portals, care binders at offboarding), all designed to make clients feel supported, seen, and wowed. The takeaway? It's not just about finishing the job—it’s about how people feel along the way.

TL;DR:
Raise your rates if you want, but don’t forget the backend matters just as much. Clean up your systems, elevate your client touchpoints, and be bold enough to evolve your brand when it no longer fits.

Speakers: Antonio DeLoatch, Zandy Gammons, Laura Tribbett
Moderator: John McClain

Spotted! Statement Lighting, Elevated | Lighting wasn’t just functional—it was the jewel of the room. I saw tons of organic materials, blown glass, and pieces that doubled as sculpture.

SESSION #2: Selling the Experience of Design: How designers communicate emotion, atmosphere, & intention

This session was part pep talk, part masterclass on the emotional side of our work—and I loved every minute of it. Here's what stuck with me:

1. Your brand isn’t your logo—it’s how you make people feel.
Each speaker approached this differently: from Stephanie’s joy-forward use of color, to Isabel’s unapologetic maximalism, to Ashley’s cultural storytelling. Their work stood out not because it looked like anyone else’s, but because it felt intentional, emotional, and them. It was a big reminder that the energy behind the work matters just as much as the work itself.

2. Instagram isn’t optional anymore.
Love it or hate it, Instagram came up again and again as the #1 way clients are finding designers. But it’s not about polished perfection—it’s about storytelling. Behind-the-scenes moments, process videos, and letting your personality shine through are what make people want to reach out. If the camera makes you cringe? One speaker joked about hiding behind a vase. The point: be visible, even if it’s imperfect.

3. Emotions are design tools, too.
How do you want clients to feel in a space? What kind of memories do you want them to make there? Several designers shared how they start the creative process with feelings—not Pinterest boards. From architectural “wow” moments to Mojo-infused client gifts, this session made it clear: good design is never just aesthetic—it’s deeply personal.

TL;DR:
Your vibe really does attract your tribe. If you’re clear about how you want people to feel when they work with you, and you’re brave enough to show up as you, the right clients will follow.

Speakers: Cathy Purple Cherry, Stéphanie Le Rouzic, Ashley Ross, Isabel Ladd, Lance Trachier
Moderator: Ericka Saurit

Spotted! Rounded Edges & Soft Geometry | The soft, curvaceous silhouettes aren’t going anywhere. From modular sectionals to sculptural benches, form and comfort continue to meet in beautiful ways.

SESSION #3 TAKEAWAY: Marketing your Design Business in the Age of Algorithms

This session was like a marketing audit with a side of tough love (in the best way). Here’s what I walked away with:

1. Marketing is not a maybe—it’s a muscle.
The panelists agreed: marketing isn’t something you do after the design work. It’s a core part of the business. Some spend 10–20% of their time on it, whether through social, local networking, or PR support. The big takeaway? If you’re not carving out consistent time to connect with your audience, someone else is.

2. Local is the new luxury.
There was a strong push to stop chasing national features just because. Instead, show up locally—whether that’s through events, Google listings, or connecting with realtors and builders in your area. Turns out being the best-kept secret in your own zip code isn’t doing you any favors.

3. Be known for something.
Call it a signature style, a brand POV, or just your thing—but the clearer you are, the more magnetic your marketing becomes. “Soulful minimalism,” “joy through color,” “maximalist layering”—whatever your angle, your brand should say something. And that message? It should be consistent everywhere, from your captions to your contracts.

TL;DR:
Marketing doesn’t have to mean constant posting or chasing trends. But it does require clarity, consistency, and a willingness to show up—whether you’re speaking to 5 people or 5,000.

Speakers: Tina Ramchandani, Rasheeda Gray, Alyssa Zimerman, Ericka Saurit, Jennifer Smiga

Final Thought

High Point always leaves me with a full camera roll and an even fuller notebook—but more than anything, it leaves me re-energized about what it means to be a designer today. These takeaways weren’t just good ideas; they were reminders of the power we have to shape experiences, elevate everyday living, and build businesses that reflect our values.

If any of this sparked something for you, I’d love to hear it. What’s one idea you’re taking with you into this next season of work? Drop a comment or send me a note—I always love connecting with fellow creatives who are in it for the long game.