If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to attend High Point Market—the largest home furnishings industry trade show in the world—let me tell you: it’s pure magic. I always call it Disney World for designers because that’s exactly how it feels. It’s our happy place—where we get to eat and drink, sit on pretty furniture, meet other creatives, and soak up endless inspiration.
It’s also a whirlwind of networking, events, and design discoveries that fuel our creative work for months to come. I’ve been attending since October 2017, and every year it feels just as exciting as the first.
High Point Market takes place twice a year in High Point, North Carolina—a small town that still holds the title of “Furniture Capital of the World.” Decades ago, most American-made furniture came from this region, and many factories still operate there today.
Twice a year, the entire design industry converges on this otherwise quiet town. Showrooms come alive, red carpets are rolled out, and the streets are filled with editors, brand reps, buyers, designers, and makers from all over the world.
It’s not just about furniture—it’s about connection, creativity, and community.
I’ll never forget my very first market back in 2017. I wandered into a small popup by designer Lonni Paul, who had created the most beautiful blush-toned showroom for her fabric line. The space glowed with creamy whites, crystal chandeliers, and dreamy textiles.
I was completely starstruck. Meeting her in person and realizing that designers could branch into product collaborations opened my eyes to what was possible in this career. That one moment shaped how I saw my future—and, years later, inspired me to launch my own licensed collections.
Attending High Point feels like stepping into a design wonderland. Every building is filled with stunning showrooms that go all out to impress guests. You’ll find catered breakfasts, open bars, specialty cocktails, cold brew stations, and beautiful food displays everywhere you turn.
And yes, everyone looks amazing. High Point is the place to dress up—think chic sneakers for miles of walking, but with outfits that still make a statement. I’ve learned to pack for every temperature imaginable: it’s freezing inside the buildings and hot outside, all on the same day.
My husband Hugh and I even bring a clothing rack in our van for quick outfit changes between showroom visits and panels!
Two of my favorite areas are The Suites at Market Square and the Antique & Design Center.
The Suites are filled with hundreds of small, independent makers and artisans—people creating everything from handwoven textiles to ceramics and original art. It’s where we’ve discovered some of our most beloved shop partners, like artist Windy O’Connor and the mother–daughter duo behind Coley Home.
The Antique & Design Center is another treasure trove. It’s where you can find one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, from art to accessories. But get there early—dealers line up at 9 a.m. sharp, and the best finds go fast!
One of the most jaw-dropping sights in recent years was the new Bernhardt building—100,000 square feet of furnishings, complete with an entire floor that’s a bar and club. The level of design, craftsmanship, and investment behind it is awe-inspiring. It’s a reminder of the scale and legacy behind so many brands in our industry.
This year at the 2025 Market, my team and I had the pleasure of meeting Amanda Lindroth and her incredible team. Amanda represents the kind of milestone our company is striving toward—she’s a Bahamas-based designer with a beautiful coastal aesthetic, and we’re currently working with our first client in that area. It was so inspiring to connect with her and learn firsthand about her experiences managing island installations and design logistics abroad.
To top it off, I was completely surprised—and honestly a little starstruck—to see my own Mitchell Black Marsh Mural wallpaper featured in the Chelsea House showroom this year! They used the sage green colorway, and it looked absolutely stunning. Seeing my design showcased in such an iconic space was a true full-circle moment.
Today, I’m honored to be on the other side of that inspiration. We’ve launched three licensed collections—starting with Cooper Classics Mirrors, a family-owned brand with a beautiful High Point showroom.
I sketched those mirrors by hand, inspired by my travels, and worked with their team to bring each piece to life. When our collection debuted, we designed a Palm Beach–inspired display with rattan furniture, bright wallpaper, and even a vintage golf cart that Hugh restored as the ultimate photo moment.
Seeing people from Anthropologie, Lulu and Georgia, Wayfair, and Amber Interiors stop by our display was surreal. Moments like that remind me how far we’ve come since that first trip in 2017.
This year is extra special—our entire design team is going, along with Hugh and our social media team, Sophie. I can’t wait for everyone to experience it together.
For us as designers, going to market isn’t just fun—it’s essential. It allows us to sit in the chairs we source, feel the textures of the materials we recommend, and ensure that what we specify for clients meets our standards.
When our clients trust us to select everything sight unseen, it’s crucial that we’ve seen and touched those products ourselves. Market gives us that confidence.
This year, I’m thrilled to be speaking on a panel with LuAnn Nigara, the woman behind the A Well-Designed Businesspodcast. She taught me so much in my early years as a designer, and being able to share a stage with her now feels like such a full-circle moment.
LuAnn has connected countless people in this industry, and her podcast continues to be one of my top recommendations for anyone just starting out.
A few tips from experience:
- Parking is chaos—plan to walk or take a shuttle.
- Maps are your best friend (you’ll get lost anyway).
- Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable—you’ll walk miles every day.
- Be prepared to network. Everyone is there: buyers, editors, PR reps, influencers, and fellow designers.
Don’t be shy. I love when people come up and introduce themselves. The design world is built on connection, and social media makes it even easier to meet “friends” in real life.
I’m so excited to return to High Point Market this year with our team. It’s where inspiration flows, relationships are built, and design dreams come to life.
If you’re following along on Instagram, expect to see all the behind-the-scenes moments—from the panels and parties to our favorite showrooms and discoveries.
Until then, I’ll be counting down the days to what I’ll forever call:
Disney World for Designers.
