Seminars, tours and panel discussions set for spring market

Furniture Today Staff //Staff Editors//April 12, 2017

powerfulHIGH POINT — Educational seminars at the April 22-26 High Point Market will offer ideas, advice and information about the home furnishings industry.

All seminars are free to marketgoers unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAY, APRIL 21

1-2 p.m.

Colormix 2017 color forecast

Alden Parkes Seminar Room, 200 N. Hamilton, S Ct 110

Nicole Ruffing, of Sherwin Williams, will take participants through Colormix 2017, a visual journey with stimulating imagery, factual statistics and perceptive research that supports the 2017 forecast for color and design trends. Explore the drivers influencing future color and design trends that include global, technological, historic, psychological and economic factors with specific information on four dominant color stories. An afternoon pick-me-up will be served. Sponsored by International Market Centers, Alden Parkes and IDS. (0.1 CEU)

2-3 p.m.

Champagne Early Bird tour of The Antique & Design Center with The Antiques Diva

Antique & Design Center Entrance-MS Ground

The early bird gets the worm with Toma Clark Haines, owner of Europe’s largest antiques touring and buying service company, as she takes you on a tour of the major antique periods and styles to identify their key characteristics utilizing modern day metaphors and featuring inventory found at the ADC. Focusing on the antique trends in Europe, The Antiques Diva is taking antiques out of the past and bringing them into the future of design.

3:30-4:30 p.m.

Pure Heart: A spirited tale of grace, grit & whiskey by Troy Ball

Antique & Design Center Boiler Room Bar

Pure Heart is a powerful story of how one woman used grit and determination to launch a thriving business, and what a mother will do to help her children. Troy Ball shares her true story of how a pearl-wearing Southern woman and devoted mother moved to Asheville, N.C., to save her family and become the country’s foremost legal distiller of traditional Appalachian moonshine. Troy & Sons has been sponsoring the Boiler Room Bar for several years and has helped raise thousands of dollars for charity through the tip jar donations. Celebrate the release of “Pure Heart,” and stay for a book signing and whiskey tasting party to kick off spring market.

4-5 p.m.

Photographing your beautiful spaces: Hiring the right photographer

Alden Parkes Seminar Room, 200 N. Hamilton, S Ct 110

There’s a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes of an interior design photography shoot before the photographer even shows up. VanderVeen photographer Bert VanderVeen explains the ins and outs of hiring the right photographer, how to get what you need from your photographer and how to make your projects photos magazine-worthy. There will also be a Q&A with VanderVeen. Refreshments will be served. Cosponsored by IMC-DesignOnHPMkt and Alden Parkes. (0.1 CEU)

6-9 p.m.

WithIt 2017 WOW Awards

AwardsIHFC, Green Wing, International Ballroom, 11th floor

WithIt celebrates its 20th year with the premiere event spotlighting the excellence of women in the industry. The annual WOW awards recognize business leaders nominated by their peers who have contributed to the success of the home furnishings industries and have demonstrated significant impact on their companies, the industry or both. Caroline Hipple, president of Norwalk Furniture, will be honored with a Legacy Award. In addition, WithIt will present WOW Awards in four additional categories: education, mentoring, leadership and future leader. Tickets are $150 per person and available at www.withit.org.

SATURDAY, APRIL 22

7:30-8:30 a.m. Live painting demonstration

SAMS, M-6017

California artist Linda Donohue will demonstrate painting her colorful abstract seascape and Expressionist paintings with a pallet knife in acrylics.

9-10 a.m.

4 pillars for success in today’s retail economy

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Erika Sparrow, Imagine Advertising & Publishing, has culled the best practices of more than 5,000 furniture retailers across the country and will share the top four best strategies and tactics. These ideas have consistently worked for her retail customers to create lift before, during and after the sale.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Glen & Jamie Design Tour 2017

SAMS, IHFC, Showplace, etc.

Join Glen Peloso and Jamie Alexander, two well-respected names in design from Peloso Alexander Interiors, for exclusive tours and events at High Point Market. Complimentary private showroom tours run through market week and include four to five showrooms per day. Free registration at glenandjamie. com/hpmkt.

10:30-11:30 a.m.

The digitally empowered consumer is already here, are you?

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Jesse Akre, Amber Engine, will talk about how technology has empowered the digital-centric consumer like never before. As an industry, we have to adapt to this ever-changing landscape to ensure our success. Amber Engine teamed up with the HFA, IHFRA and Progressive Business Media to survey the industry on digital and technology topics. Come see what we learned and what you can do next.

10:30-11:30 a.m.

Master class with Bunny Williams

SAMS Seminar Room, T-1014

WilliamsRunning a successful design business requires far more than fabric and furniture savvy and general good taste. With nearly a half century of design experience, a namesake furniture line and nine licensed partnerships under her belt, Bunny Williams shares her knowledge about avoiding design mistakes, keeping clients happy, getting press, enjoying fruitful partnerships and becoming a brand. Sponsored by IMC – DesignOnHPMkt (0.1 CEU)

Noon-1 p.m.

Design Disruption: How wellness and sustainability is more than a trend

IHFC, High Point Theatre

Clean Design is a methodology of “free to fabulous” options for wellness, allowing you to manage and eliminate triggers for allergens, to guide your clients to hypoallergenic design choices and to increase your revenue as you educate your client base. Robin Wilson shares how she built a business that speaks to 60 million consumers who suffer from asthma and allergies, including information on consumer concerns and priorities for design around eco-friendly homes and a non-toxic lifestyle. Complimentary boxed lunch provided (first come, first serve). Presented by the High Point Market Authority and ASID. (0.1 CEU)

1-2 p.m.

2017 Color, material and surface trends

Alden Parkes Seminar Room, 200 N. Hamilton, S Ct 110

Join color marketing expert Kathy Andersson in a presentation exploring color, materials and surface trends in 2017. Andersson will provide expert insight on color choices, surface applications and materials influencing tomorrow’s consumers, as well as costly pitfalls to avoid when making design decisions. By the end of this seminar you’ll have the tools to help you better communicate with manufacturers and customers about your color decisions. There will be a Q&A at the end, and an afternoon pick-me-up will be served. Co-sponsored by IMC-DesignOnHPMkt and Alden Parkes. (0.1 CEU)

1-2 p.m.

The Myth of “Be Backs”

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Find out the truth about “Be Backs” and how they affect your business. How many shoppers actually come back? Phil Gutsell, a 40-year industry veteran and consultant, will examine and refute the myth of “Be Backs.” He’ll show you the behaviors and adjustments your sales team needs to turn those “Be Backs” into buyers today.

1-2 p.m.

Turning a Creative Eye into a Successful Career: 10 Questions for David Phoenix

SuccessfulSAMS Seminar Room, T-1014

In a Q&A program, Los Angeles-based interior designer David Phoenix, of David Phoenix Inc., has answers based on his experiences working with a roster of clients and his debut furniture collection for Hickory Chair. Phoenix’s story is filled with real-life lessons and “only-in-Hollywood” anecdotes. Newell Turner, editorial director of the Hearst Design Group, will lead this discussion with Phoenix. Co-Sponsored by Hickory Chair and IMCDesignOnHPMkt.

2-3 p.m.

An afternoon with Candice: How Candice Olson styles with Surya accessories

SP, 4100

With more than 25 years’ experience as an interior designer, Candice Olson has imparted her unique aesthetic on hundreds of residential and commercial projects. In a presentation and Q&A session, Olson will share how she uses Surya accessories to design spaces to embody her signature fusion of traditional form, scale and proportion with the simplistic beauty and crispness of modern design. The products Olson has designed for Surya embody her love of everyday elegance and have gained popularity among interior designers and consumers alike.

2-3 p.m.

Viva La Vintage with Mat Sanders of Consort

Chairish Lecture Room on Mezzanine Level of Antique & Design Center, MS

Designer and lifestyle expert Mat Sanders of Consort will share his skills for discovering the hidden potential in vintage pieces and turning duds in diamonds. Learn how to develop your vintage vision, discover the hidden potential in vintage furniture and accessories, and how to transform them into winning pieces. See the “before and afters” of his firm’s design portfolios.

2:30-3:30 p.m.

Suite Spot Tour with French Country Cottage

Tours will depart from the top floor of SAMS

Designers, bloggers and social media maestros not only have their finger on the pulse of what is hot today, they also influence consumer demand tomorrow. To get a first-hand look at what trendsetters think is hot at High Point Market this spring, spend an hour on this guided tour. Join Courtney Allison, of French Country Cottage, as she takes you on a tour of her favorite finds on all three floors of the Suites at Market Square. Sponsored by IMCDesignOnHPMkt. RSVP required. To register, www.imchighpointmarket. com/seminars-and-events/

3-4 p.m.

Turn web traffic into foot traffic: Google shows how to win the moments that win customers

IHFC, High Point Theatre

Marketing is only getting harder. With smartphones, computers and, soon, virtual reality, things have gone from confusing to complex. However, Google believes each new device and frontier is another opportunity for you to reach your customers when it matters. Join Andrew Leonard, Google strategist and marketing development manager, to hear how you can take advantage of the new landscape. Leonard will focus on how to utilize Google products to drive traffic into your brick-and-mortar retail store. Q&A to follow. Presented by the High Point Market Authority and the Home Furnishings Assn.

3-4 p.m.

Influence of fashion on the interior design industry

200 N. Hamilton St., Floor 2, H/W District, N Ct 205

Join interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins as he discusses the influence of fashion on the interior design industry. He will be exploring color, shape and texture influences from high fashion and their role in home furnishings, in keeping the excitement thriving and the look sophisticated.

3-4 p.m.

Set yourself apart from the crowd: Essential secrets for designing new construction custom luxury residences

101 S. Hamilton St.

Michelle Jennings Wiebe, ASID, will show how any motivated interior designer can break into the lucrative new construction design industry and what it takes to succeed. She will coach on the processes and schedules that are successful for luxury construction or major remodeling, specific organizational methods she employs for each project, present samples of her firm’s CAD construction drawings, provide insight into this VIP client group, offer advice on cutting edge marketing, and discuss what has made her firm thrive in this area. Attendees will leave with actionable items that can be implemented in their own firms. RSVP.

3:30-4:30 p.m.

TrendWatch: Spring 2017

SAMS Seminar Room, T-1014

IMC’s TrendWatch program returns to High Point Market this spring with an inside look at leading trends shaping the home furnishings industry. TrendWatch, both an opening-day seminar and three on-site trend displays, is directed by home furnishings trend forecaster, editor and curator Julie Smith Vincenti of Nine Muses Media. Look for the three TrendWatch displays as you shop IMC properties: Suites at Market Square Lobby, IHFC Green Lobby and the walkway between IHFC and Showplace near the Transportation Terminal. Sponsored by IMCDesignOnHPMkt. (0.1 CEU)

4-5 p.m.

Furniture development: An insider’s look from inspiration to creation

Alden Parkes Seminar Room, 200 N. Hamilton, S Ct 110

Have you ever wondered what goes into the furniture development process and what it takes to create a functional, livable work of art? Product developer and interior designer Suzanne Kreiser will lead an informative behind-the-scenes look into today’s furniture development trends and inspirations, and how the perfect blend of materials, colors and textures are chosen to create these masterpieces. Kreiser will also reveal the “magic number” formula that is used to create each piece and how designs are translated into a sellable product. Q&A at the end and an afternoon pick-me-up will be served. Co-Sponsored by IMC-DesignOnHPMkt and Alden Parkes. (0.1 CEU)

4-6 p.m.

Decorating with Carleton Varney Conversation and book signing

200 N. Hamilton St., Floor 1, H/W District, S Ct 100

Carleton Varney, interior designer and president of Dorothy Draper and Company, will share his decorating adventures and launch additions to the Dorothy Draper Collection by Kindel. A chinoiserie trellis bed, designed in the style of Draper’s personal bed, is the highlight of the classically colorful Draper bedroom. Designed by Varney, the room also features his own fabrics, wall coverings and lighting designs. He will be signing copies of his new book, Decorating on the Waterfront.

4-5 p.m.

Get more juice out of the same lemons; re-invent your showroom

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Many furniture stores are getting creative with their retail space. Developing distressed real estate into affordable premises, converting backrooms and warehouses into retail, high cubing to maximize ROI and so much more. Martin Roberts, Martin Roberts Design, will use real-world examples to show how he’s helped retailers rebrand, redesign and remerchandise to help maximize their return on investment. Find out how you can use these same tactics and get great results.

4-5 p.m.

Becoming a visionary, with Jamie Drake, Steve Leung and Michael Berman

229 W. Russell Ave.

Join Editor at Large Arianne Nardo for an inspirational discussion with internationally known designers Jamie Drake, Steve Leung and Michael Berman, all about becoming a household name in the industry. Learn how these luminaries cultivated their own signature style and how a commitment to their authentic brands has contributed to their overall success as leaders in design. RSVP at theodorealexander.com.

4:30-5:30 p.m.

SELLINGreen, Dira style

Dira Showroom, Salon at SAMS, G-6046

Susan Inglis, SFC executive director and resident expert, teaches you how to use eco-attributes to drive traffic and close sales. Drawing on SFC’s 2016 consumer research, learn to answer questions most commonly asked by customers, in simple and compelling ways, whether you are selling upholstery, case goods, accessories or all of these. Get answers to the most common questions about environmental safety, and empower your sales team to build your brand, as well as a healthy future and learn how Dira’s line is an example of best practices. (1 CEU) IDCEC #CC-103186-1001

SUNDAY, APRIL 23

7:30-9 a.m.

WithIt Education Breakfast: A conversation with Candice Olson — The business of great design: Create, manage and evolve your brand

IHFC, Green Wing, International ballroom, 11th Floor

WithIt celebrates its 20th year with an informative and “divine” visit from one of America’s favorite designers, Candice Olson, recognized worldwide for her HGTV design shows Divine Design, Candice Tells All and Design Star. She’s known for communicating her signature style and trademark sense of humor, making viewers feel as if they’ve stopped by a friend’s design project. At the breakfast, she brings that warmth in person, pulling up a comfy chair and chatting with both a moderator and the attendees. Tickets are $25 per person and include full breakfast, program and networking. Register at www.withit.org. Presented by Myriad Software.

7:30-8:30 a.m.

Live painting demonstration

SAMS, M-6017

California artist Linda Donohue will demonstrate painting her colorful abstract seascape and Expressionist paintings with a pallet knife in acrylics.

8:30-10:30 a.m.

Breakthrough to clarity

String and Splinter Club, 305 W. High Ave.

Join Gail Doby, ASID, business breakthrough specialist and Erin Weir, co-founder of Gail Doby Coaching & Consulting, for a complimentary breakfast at the spring High Point Market. You’ll get immediate clarity on action steps to solve your current challenges or to maximize opportunities you’re facing. RSVPs are required.

9-10 a.m.

State of the industry

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Jerry Epperson, Mann, Armistead & Epperson, discusses what’s going on with the industry: economy, politics, the international situation, new interest in the industry from outside investors, etc.

10-11 a.m.

PlatinumDesign Viewpoints Series: Gradients of green: Designing a LEED platinum home

IHFC, High Point Theatre

What started as a simple remodeling project in central Austin, Texas, evolved into a new build, high-performance sustainable home that achieved LEED Platinum certification. Learn how the previous 1951 house was moved to a new site in order to make way for a functional, beautiful and healthy environment with a mindful approach and sensitivity to the end user’s needs. Interior designer Laura Britt, ASID, will share the process of documenting the team’s decision making approach to sustainable design — the “Gradients of Green” — which can be achieved while balancing multiple constraints along the way. (0.1 CEU) Presented by the High Point Market Authority and ASID.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Glen & Jamie Design Tour 2017

SAMS, IHFC, Showplace, etc.

Join Glen Peloso and Jamie Alexander, two well-respected names in design from Peloso Alexander Interiors, for exclusive tours and events at High Point Market. Complimentary private showroom tours run through market week and include four to five showrooms per day. Free registration at glenandjamie.com/hpmkt.

10-11 a.m.

Creating a lasting brand with Rachel Ashwell: Shabby Chic: yesterday, today & tomorrow

RachelSAMS Seminar Room, T-1014

Rachel Ashwell continues to honor her mantra “Beauty, Comfort & Function” for every home. As the original visionary behind Shabby Chic, Ashwell had a simple mission to inspire and educate people to live beautifully and comfortably by incorporating luxurious textiles, exquisite details and uncompromising quality. She will share how she developed the lasting brand, what she is doing to solidify its future, and how those things exist together with authenticity. A journey where she has maintained the core values for both Shabby Chic and Rachel Ashwell brands while understanding that the landscape of retail is ever changing. (0.1 CEU)

10:30-11:30 a.m.

Use your words: Leveraging customer conversations to enhance your content marketing

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

From keywords, online reviews and conversations taking place across social media, it’s easier than ever to listen to what your fans, haters and ambassadors are saying. Marisa Peacock, The Strategic Peacock, shows you how to identify your different types of customers online; explore ways you can incorporate user-generated content into marketing campaigns; and understand the realities in making customer reviews an effective part of your brand’s marketing strategy.

11 a.m.-noon

The art of wall coverings: A discussion with Candice Olson

Alden Parkes Seminar Room, 200 N. Hamilton, S Ct 110

Incorporating all aspects of using the luxury of wall coverings to enhance, and ultimately elevate spaces and your bottom line, will be discussed in this broad-ranging seminar with designer Candice Olson. Discover how usage of wallpaper can define spaces and create new and exciting ways to decorate that speaks to the individuality of your customer. A Q&A will follow. Refreshments will be served. Co-sponsored by York Wall-coverings, IMC-DesignOnHPMkt and Alden Parkes. (0.1 CEU)

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Giving your home a boutique vibe with the Novogratz

SAMS Seminar Room,T-1014

Join Kelli Lamb, managing editor of RUE Magazine and RUE Media, as she leads a discussion with Robert and Cortney Novogratz, stars of HGTV’s Home by Novogratz and Bravo’s 9 by Design. They will discuss the well-traveled home: designing with a cultured approach to give your home a boutique vibe, share stories of traveling with seven kids, bringing home beautiful artifacts from all over the world, and incorporating them into everything from Manhattan townhouses to boutique hotels. Sponsored by Momeni and IMC-DesignOnHPMkt.

Noon-1 p.m.

Design Viewpoints Series: Next Step: Merging design legend and rising star

IHFC, High Point Theatre

The decision to merge design firms is filled with questions. How do you know the right time to merge with another firm? How do you find the right partner? How should the new firm be structured? Editor at Large Arianne Nardo will chat with design legend Jamie Drake, FASID, about his experience merging his incredibly well-regarded and established design practice with on-therise star (and former Drake Design Associates employee) Caleb Anderson and will share what he has learned along the way. Complimentary boxed lunch provided. (0.1 CEU) Presented by the High Point Market Authority and ASID.

1-2 p.m.

The making of a salesperson

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Joe Milevsky, JRM Sales & Management, asks: What makes one salesperson succeed when others fail? What’s the magic profile for a strong salesperson in our industry? Where do you find your best candidates? What should you be doing to attract the best candidate? How do you increase the probability that your salespeople succeed? How do you ensure you have the right number of salespeople? You may have a beautiful store, great location, superior merchandising lineup and do a great job in marketing your business, but without the best possible sales team, you’ll never achieve your potential.

1-2 p.m.

Passion for leather: Use leather with confidence in your design projects

Alden Parkes Seminar Room, 200 N. Hamilton, S Ct 110

Explore leather’s beauty, versatility, strength and timeless style with interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins and Leathercraft’s David Sigmon and Tara Boyd in a seminar about the role of leather in today’s marketplaces and the advantages of using leather for home interiors, as well as specifying the correct type of leather based on environmental factors and performance needs. This seminar will examine the utilization of textiles mixed with leathers for home furnishings, noting various combinations of content, look, durability and texture to explore how leather and textiles can and should be used in combination for overall durability, visual interest, style and drama, etc. Refreshments will be served. Co-sponsored by IMC and Alden Parkes. (0.1 CEU)

1-2 p.m.

Inside the designer’s studio with Jeffrey Bilhuber

BilhuberSAMS Seminar Room, T-1014

Following the Inside the Actor’s Studio concept and format, design icon Jeffrey Bilhuber will discuss a variety of designer-focused topics as well as share insights from his life. Bilhuber will share design how to’s and various trends while discussing his approach to design, clients and working within the design community. While drawing upon his experience, Bilhuber will give general tips that will have a broad application for designers in their own projects. He will have a one-on-one conversation with Parker Bowie Lawson, market director for Architectural Digest, and will take questions from the audience following the discussion. Sponsored by Henredon Furniture and IMC-DesignOnHPMkt. (0.1 CEU)

2-3 p.m.

Suite Spot Tour with Gary Inman: The art of fine living

Tours will depart from the top floor of SAMS

Designers, bloggers and social media maestros not only have their finger on the pulse of what is hot today, they also influence consumer demand tomorrow. To get a first-hand look at what trendsetters think is hot at High Point Market this spring, spend an hour on this guided tour. Join Gary Inman, of The Art of Fine Living, as he takes you on a guided tour of his favorite finds on all three floors of the Suites at Market Square. Sponsored by IMC-DesignOnHPMkt. RSVP required.

2-3 p.m.

Love it or hate it

Chairish Lecture Room, Mezzanine, Antique & Design Center, MS

Join Domino Magazine Editor in Chief Jessica Romm Perez and Chairish’s Mugs Buckley as they lead a group of top interior designers including Kara Cox, Mark Cutler, Cortney Bishop, Krista Nye Nicholas of Cloth & Kind and Kevin Walsh in the panel game of Love It or Hate It. This event gives a spontaneous yay or nay on top design trends. Sunburst mirrors, banana leaf wallpaper, gallery walls — are they in, out, or somewhere in between? We’ll have some laughs while watching industry thought leaders dish and diss design. Romm Perez will be on hand to sign Domino: Your Guide to a Stylish Home following the panel.

2:30-3:30 p.m.

Macro and micro retail trends — Understanding the trend curve & the difference

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Jena Hall, Jena Hall Designs, will talk about how to read the retail-trend tea leaves. It’s best not to be the pioneer of a new trend, nor the last one to jump on the band wagon. Find out where the sweet trend spot is and how to capitalize on it. Come and see what the consumers will be interested in 2017.

3-4 p.m.

Panel Discussion: Traditional design’s fresh new face: 3 designers offer tips for merging traditional elegance with contemporary energy

energyChelsea House, 200 N. Hamilton St., Floor 1, H/W District, S Ct 104, 125

Moderated by Susan Dickenson, editor in chief, Home Accents Today. Featuring designers Claire Bell, Jamie Merida and Bradshaw Orrell.

3-4 p.m.

Evolution of fashion and design in the home

101 S. Hamilton St.

Join a special guest fashion icon as he examines how changes in the fashion industry have influenced interior design over the past 20 years. No RSVP needed. E

3:30-5 p.m.

Lifestyle journey of 2017 global trends

SAMS Seminar Room, T-1014

Join Nancy Fire, design director of HGTV Home and Founder of Design Works International in NYC, as she takes you on a “lifestyle journey” of emerging trends pertaining to updated product, color, pattern and prints. She will also talk about “The Fusion of Fashion, Food and Home” and their relevance in today’s trends. Offering a HGTV Home Trend Bag with the HGTV Magazine, and other home-related designer items. Sponsored by HGTV HOME, HGTV Magazine and IMC-DesignOnHPMkt. (0.1 CEU)

4-5 p.m.

Retail moneyball: Strategies for maximizing revenue

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Kevin Cundiff, Fortegra Inc., says it’s all about finding a balance between your existing sales opportunities and those that could be measured by metrics. Since numbers tell a story, take a realistic look at analytics so your decisions are based on data not just your gut feeling or conventional wisdom. While there are situations when your greatest opportunities line up with your lowest performers, more often, those larger opportunities exist at the top or middle of the organization where resources are not often allotted. Once you’ve come to terms with the fact that your best changes are with your top performers, you are ready to win big.

4:30-5:30 p.m.

SELLINGreen, Copeland Furniture style

Copeland showroom 5100, SP, 5th Floor

Susan Inglis, SFC executive director and resident expert, teaches you how to use eco-attributes to drive traffic and close sales. Drawing on SFC’s 2016 consumer research, learn to answer questions most commonly asked by customers, in simple and compelling ways, whether you are selling upholstery, case goods, accessories or all of these. Get answers to the most common questions about environmental safety, and empower your sales team to build your brand, as well as a healthy future, and learn how Copeland Furniture exemplifies the best practices we all should strive to implement. (1 CEU) IDCEC #CC-103186-1001

MONDAY, APRIL 24

7:30-8:30 a.m.

Live painting demonstration

SAMS, M-6017

California artist Linda Donohue will demonstrate painting her colorful abstract seascape and Expressionist paintings with a pallet knife in acrylics.

9-10 a.m.

How to grow your business with self-publishing

Alden Parkes Seminar Room, 200 N. Hamilton, S Ct 110

Would you like to reach your customers in an engaging, inspiring and profitable way? Interior designer and retail store owner Shay Geyer has tapped into the marketing power of custom publishing to help grow her business both locally and nationally through her quarterly magazine, IBB at Home. Geyer will discuss how you can turn your brand into a household name with your own magazine instead of battling for limited features in trade publications, as well as explain how to get your magazine started and placed in front of readers – and ultimately increase your new client inquiries. A Q&A at the end and refreshments will be served. Co-sponsored with IMC-DesignOnHPMkt and Alden Parkes. (0.1 CEU)

9-10 a.m.

Looking back & looking ahead at 2017 web trends

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

We’re at a critical intermission in 2017, and it’s time for a big technology inspection in your business. What’s happening in the world of the web and what online trends are in the forecast for the rest of this year? Ron Gordon, MicroD, will reveal a list of the hottest web trends and the impact each movement has on businesses and consumers in a growing industry. From secure sites to mobile-first strategies and all the trends between, Gordon will guide you through this Internet investigation and emphasize the ways to embrace these changes. It’s never too late to get started on building a better business. Bring back a bigger, bolder strategy for reinventing your website as the most powerful sales tool in your business.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Glen & Jamie Design Tour 2017

SAMS, IHFC, Showplace, etc.

Join Glen Peloso and Jamie Alexander, two well-respected names in design from Peloso Alexander Interiors, for exclusive tours and events at High Point Market. Complimentary private showroom tours run through market week and include four to five showrooms per day. Free registration at glenandjamie. com/hpmkt.

10:30-11:30 a.m.

Stand out in the crowd: How online reviews can give your local SEO a boost

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

How easy is it for potential customers to find your business when searching online? If you’re not showing up in the top three listings in Google’s Map Pack, the answer to that question is not very easy. Selling furniture is a competitive business, so if you want to stand out and be there when customers need you most, you need to be optimize for local SEO. Join us for this as Nick Miller, Podium, walks you through best practices for optimizing your business for local SEO. Key takeaways include: the differences between organic and local search; tips for optimizing your site for local SEO; what role online reviews play in local SEO; and how to take advantage of the rise in mobile searches.

Noon-1 p.m.

Design Viewpoints Series: Technology and the online landscape for the design profession

IHFC, High Point Theatre

This discussion will take an in-depth look at the online landscape for the design industry to include Keith Granet, co-founder of Studio Designer and special industry guests. Granet is the author of The Business of Design (2011, Princeton Architectural Press) and The Business of Creativity (2016, Princeton Architectural Press) and has long been considered a leader in business management for the design profession. Complimentary boxed lunch provided. (0.1 CEU) Presented by the High Point Market Authority and ASID.

12:30-2 p.m.

Lunch with Libby — Showhouse show and tell: Getting involved, what it costs and how to make the most of your experience

310 S. Elm St.

Interior designer, author and makeover TV personality Libby Langdon explores the pros and cons of participating in a designer showhouse and ways you can use it to grow your brand and design business. Langdon shares her experiences and take-aways from doing showhouses and offers insight on when to know if it’s worth it and how to make the effort really pay off. She will give ideas on finding the best showhouse fit for the goals of your design firm and offer informative, inspiring PR tactics to promote your process and the project. A light lunch will be served; RSVP is required at libbypr@libbylangdon.com.

12:30-2 p.m.

Exploring “What’s it made of?” Panel Discussion over lunch

IHFC Club Dining Room, Green Wing, 11th Floor

Sustainable Furnishings Council has joined with partners American Sustainable Business Council, Center for Environmental Health, Healthy Materials Lab at Parsons School of Design, GCI General Contractors and others for an initiative to help furnishings professionals ask and find out “What’s it made of?” During this free lunch and panel discussion, leading SFC member companies will share their perspective. Moderated by an editor, the panel will feature a retailer, a designer, a manufacturer and a supplier as well as a scientist. Discussion will illuminate how these companies respond to consumers’ requests for transparency, and how they are able to drive innovation by influencing their supply chains.

1-2 p.m. 5

ways to get sales from your non e-commerce website

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

What experience do consumers receive when they visit your website? Are you giving them the same experience online that they receive in your showroom? Scott Hill, co-founder and executive chairman of PERQ, a consumer engagement technology company, will share actionable insights into how you can reflect your in-person showroom experience on your website to increase your bottom line.

1-2 p.m.

Magnolia magic with Weston Farms

Weston FarmsSAMS Seminar Room, T-1014

Featured on the cover of House Beautiful, and seen in Garden and Gun Magazine, Southern Living, HGTV, PBS and the N.C. Museum of Art, creative force Erin Weston of Weston Farms will demonstrate how to incorporate cut foliage into timeless arrangements in any season throughout the year. Weston founded Weston Farms with a complex goal: to cultivate luxury on her family farm and to combine her fine arts degree with the horticulture endeavors initiated by her father. Today, Weston Farms specializes in Southern Magnolia and botanical ingredients for use in garlands, wreaths, topiaries and other natural accessories. She will share some of her designer secrets.

1-2:30 p.m.

Hamilton Highlights Tour with RUE Magazine

Tour will leave from Alden Parkes Seminar Room-200 N. Hamilton, S Ct 110

Join Kelli Lamb, managing editor of RUE Magazine/RUE Media, on this premier tour of the Hamilton Properties. Lamb will take you on a guided tour though her favorite finds of 200/320/330 North Hamilton, highlighting what’s new and innovative in each building to the design community. Sponsored by IMC-DesignOnHPMkt. RSVP required.

2-3 p.m.

Julia Buckingham: Modernique Chic

Chairish Lecture Room, Mezzanine, Antique & Design Center, MS

Interior designer Julia Buckingham, whose projects are frequently featured in the pages of Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, Luxe Magazine and others, has a passion for mixing antique and vintage pieces that translate into beautiful modern designed homes with a timeless quality. Buckingham will outline the art of mixing old and new and will decode what brings an interior to life. This design master will share her inspiration, design advice and how you too can help your clients achieve artfully blended homes. Buckingham will share highlights from her just-published book, Modernique. Champagne reception and book-signing to follow.

2-3 p.m.

Suite Spot Tour with Lori Paranjape

Tours will depart from the top floor of the Suites at Market Square

Designers, bloggers and social media maestros not only have their finger on the pulse of what is hot today, they also influence consumer demand tomorrow. To get a first-hand look at what trendsetters think is hot at High Point Market this spring, spend an hour on this guided tour. Join Lori Paranjape, of Mrs. Paranjape, as she takes you on a tour of her favorite finds on all three floors of the Suites at Market Square. Sponsored by IMC-DesignOnHPMkt. RSVP required.

2:30-3:30 p.m.

3 ways brand segmentation will grow your business

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

The concept of branding and what brands are is changing rapidly. The old methodology of brand building and customer loyalty has been completely altered. There are many reasons for this change in the landscape, but the key is to have a strategic plan to combat. Richard Fleck, Paramount Sleep, will discuss how using a true segmentation philosophy in the mattress category in your store can help generate revenue, deliver a better customer experience, lower your return rate and increase your profits. This new disruptive business model concept is not only the future for today’s consumer but also gives you the power to control your destiny in performance.

3-4 p.m.

Captivate, a 2017 color forecast

SAMS Seminar Room, T-1014

In 2017, color trends are not just about the colors themselves, but how they are derived. The texture, the gloss, the softness, the metallic sheen … color and design are more passion oriented. It is digging into the intricate details rather than just glancing over them. Diving into the details of not only what you see, but how it is made. Presented by Rachel Skafidas, Pratt & Lambert. In partnership with IDS. Sponsored by IMC-DesignOnHPMkt. (0.1 CEU)

3-4 p.m.

The business of creativity: How to build the right team for success

individualSP, 4100

Design is a collaborative effort. While one creative individual might germinate a design, the success of its execution comes from finding the right support. Speaking on his latest book, The Business of Creativity: How to Build the Right Team for Success, design business leader, educator and author Keith Granet provides insight into everything a creative leader needs to develop ideas, find the resources to bring them to life and market the work by building the right team. Exhibitor: Surya (0.1 CEU) Presented by the High Point Market Authority and ASID.

4-5 p.m.

Design freedom & flexibility: Using performance fabrics for your design projects

Alden Parkes Seminar Room, 200 N. Hamilton, S Ct 110

Performance matters, especially when you design for homes to be lived in. Join Valdese Weavers’ Blake Lindsey for an informative seminar about the versatility of using performance fabrics for your interior design projects and how they can keep your designs looking beautiful, fresh and clean for years to come. Learn how performance fabrics can enhance and protect your designs, and leave your clients happy —even after the dog-tracked mud on the sofa. Q&A and refreshments will be served. Co-sponsored by IMC-DesignOnHPMkt and Alden Parkes. (0.1 CEU)

4-5 p.m.

The secrets to effective online video

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Isaac Knorr and Kurt Strasser, Knorr Marketing, will show you how to make online videos and drive more traffic to your website. Online video has exploded as the go-to media on social, and consumers are demanding it. You’ll come away with an effective strategy to make your branded online videos more effective and successful.

6-8 p.m.

WithIt’s competitive intelligence/trends forecast

Norwalk Furniture, IHFC M108

Join WithIt for networking and an interactive discussion about the color trends seen at spring market with a panel of experts. The event is free and open to all market attendees. Sponsored by Norwalk Furniture and Llectra.

6:30-7:30 p.m.

Thomas Day, cabinet maker: Man in the middle

High Point Public Library, 901 N Main St.

Thomas Day (1801-1861) was a highly successful free African-American cabinet maker based in the Piedmont of North Carolina. His striking and innovative designs still inspire awe among furniture and antiques collectors. This presentation by Laurel B. Sneed, filmmaker, educator and researcher, will analyze the historical evidence, savor Day’s legacy in wood and explore the mystery of Day and his workshop. This program is sponsored by the N.C.Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities, and is part of an ongoing program at the High Point Public Library.

TUESDAY, APRIL 25

8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Color Marketing Group ChromaZone color forecasting workshop

101 S. Hamilton St.

Each ChromaZone Workshop is a collaboration of minds, a joint effort to understand and interpret what is happening in the world and how this will influence color. The workshops are applicable across multiple industries and product lines, focusing on the directional change in colors and color families. Participants identify 16 colors, along with the influences and inspirations that define them, they believe will trend in 2019. Workshops are open to individuals involved in either the application or analysis of color. This is an all-day event; pre-registration is required. Cost: $150 CMG members, $225 nonmembers, $75 students. To register, visit www.colormarketing.org/2017-chromazone-events. Hosted by Universal Furniture International.

9 a.m.-10 a.m.

Ensuring customer satisfaction by effectively managing an omnichannel supply chain

Retailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Bob Elkins, Schneider Dedicated Services, says there are lots of challenges to effectively manage an omnichannel supply chain. Find out how to bring all the elements into one view, manage all the players, create transparency for consumers, manage the exceptions and keep reverse logistics costs in line.

9 a.m.-10 a.m.

Style Spotters LIVE!

IHFC, Green Wing, 11th Floor, Ballroom A

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast while a panel of 2017 High Point Market Style Spotters offers expert insight into the leading looks and on-trend products from spring market. RSVP at highpointmarket.org. After the event, join your favorite Style Spotters Duo for a tour of two of their favorite showrooms. Tours will begin at 10:15 a.m., leaving from the ballroom, and will last approximately one hour. Sponsored by Crypton.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Glen & Jamie Design Tour 2017

SAMS, IHFC, Showplace, etc.

Join Glen Peloso and Jamie Alexander, two well-respected names in design from Peloso Alexander Interiors, for exclusive tours and events at High Point Market. Complimentary private showroom tours run through market week and include four to five showrooms per day. Free registration at glenandjamie.com/hpmkt.

10:30-11:30 a.m.

How to use Facebook Live for your business

takeawaysRetailer Resource Center, 1st floor, Plaza Suites

Facebook Live made its debut last year when the company tested the new service with selected accounts. Now available to all users, Facebook Live requires only a video camera, an Internet connection and a Facebook account. The social media site does all the rest. From her many years on camera, Denise Keniston, Web4Retail, will demonstrate how businesses can use the Facebook Live feature to drive traffic to their websites and to their storefronts. Facebook Live is the new broadcast television. Keniston will show why this is true and how this feature can be used to reach customers and save money.

11 a.m.-2 p.m.

The strength of an effective agreement

SAMS Seminar Room, T-1014

The agreement an interior designer has with their client is a critical tool in forming and maintaining a positive professional relationship. When written and implemented effectively, the agreement is the step-by-step road map to solve problems, large and small. This workshop is specifically to create an effective agreement for you to use in your business. Understanding the power of the agreement and writing it to cover day-to-day practices and to solve problems you’re having, is the focus of this workshop. Active participant workshop limited to 50. Presented by Paula Grace Halewski.

1-2 p.m.

Trends, takeaways and insights from Spring High Point Market

Alden Parkes Seminar Room, 200 N. Hamilton, S Ct 110

It’s impossible to get everywhere at market, so join Cindy Hodnett, editor in chief of Designers Today and Upholstery+Style Editor of Furniture Today, for a look at trends, consumer influences on new product lines and market takeaways you might have missed. Hodnett will discuss various trends, new product launches, color trends and many other exciting observations that will help designers take the most from Market. Enjoy lunch in the Alden Parkes showroom while gaining news you can use to grow your business. Co-sponsored by IMCDesignOnHPMkt and Alden Parkes. (0.1 CEU)

2-3 p.m.

Suite Spot Tour with Commander In Chic Natalie Reddell

NatalieTours will depart from the top floor of the Suites at Market Square

Designers, bloggers and social media maestros not only have their finger on the pulse of what is hot today, they also influence consumer demand tomorrow. To get a first-hand look at what trendsetters think is hot at High Point Market this spring, spend an hour on a guided tour. Join Natalie Reddell, Commander In Chic, as she take you on a tour of her favorite finds on all three floors of the Suites at Market. RSVP required. Sponsored by IMC–DesignOnHPMkt.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Glen & Jamie Design Tour 2017

SAMS, IHFC, Showplace, etc.

Join Glen Peloso and Jamie Alexander, two well-respected names in design from Peloso Alexander Interiors, for exclusive tours and events at High Point Market. Complimentary private showroom tours include four to five showrooms per day. Free registration at glenandjamie.com/hpmkt.