7 Designer Tips to Maximize Your High Point Market Experience

High Point Market is the ultimate event for interior designers, offering a staggering 12 million square feet of showroom space and countless opportunities to discover new products, trends, and connections. 

Whether you’re a seasoned market veteran or attending for the first time, having a strategy in place is essential to make the most of this expansive event. This post will provide practical tips to help you maximize your High Point Market experience, ensuring that you leave inspired, informed, and ready to elevate your design business.

1. Plan Ahead for a Productive Market

When it comes to planning your High Point Market experience, a solid plan is key. With 180 buildings and over 2000 manufacturers to explore, High Point Market can be overwhelming without preparation. Start by identifying your must-visit vendors and making appointments with key suppliers well in advance. 

Some showrooms, like Made Goods and Theodore Alexander, require appointments to enter, so don’t wait until the last minute. Prioritize your top vendors, but also leave room in your schedule for unexpected discoveries.

2. Take Advantage of Market Resources

To fully optimize your High Point Market experience, take advantage of the resources available. Download the High Point Market Authority app to plan your days, find showrooms, and stay organized. This tool is especially useful for first-time attendees who may not be familiar with the layout. 

Consider joining a guided tour if you’re new to Market—these can provide valuable insights and introduce you to key vendors and trends. Proper planning is crucial when planning your High Point Market experience.

3. Prioritize Comfort and Mobility

Comfort is key when planning your High Point Market experience. With so much ground to cover, wearing comfortable shoes and considering a backup pair is essential to avoid sore feet. If walking long distances isn’t for you, take advantage of the shuttles, Anywhere Shuttles, or even the bicycle cabs available throughout Market. These transportation options can save you time and energy, allowing you to focus on exploring rather than navigating.

4. Engage in Strategic Networking

High Point Market is not just about products; it’s also a prime opportunity to network with industry peers, vendors, and influencers. Attend events, presentations, and meetups hosted by vendors like Universal Furniture, where you can connect with other designers and industry leaders. 

Building relationships at Market can lead to valuable collaborations and business opportunities down the line. Strategic networking should be a key component of planning your High Point Market experience.

5. Explore the Temporaries for Unique Finds

The temporaries at Market Square and IHFC are where you’ll find smaller vendors showcasing unique and emerging products. Plan to spend at least half a day exploring these spaces, as they can be a goldmine for discovering new sources that aren’t yet on the radar of most designers. Make a first pass to identify booths of interest, then return later for a more in-depth look. Exploring the temporaries is an essential part of planning your High Point Market experience.

6. Be Strategic with Your Time

While it’s tempting to try to see everything, it’s important to be strategic with your time. Focus on the vendors and products that align most closely with your current projects and business goals. Remember that Market is not just about shopping—it’s about sourcing the right products that will elevate your designs and impress your clients. 

Keep your client’s needs in mind as you explore, and don’t hesitate to ask vendors detailed questions to ensure the products meet your standards. Time management is crucial when planning your High Point Market experience.

7. Recharge at Designer Lounges

Market can be exhausting, so make sure to take breaks and recharge. Universal Furniture’s Designer Lounge is a top spot to relax, grab a bite, and catch up on emails or phone calls. Take advantage of charging stations and refreshments, and use this time to plan your next move or review what you’ve seen so far. Recharging throughout the day will help you stay focused and make the most of your time at Market.

Key Takeaway

High Point Market is an unparalleled opportunity for interior designers to discover new products, connect with industry peers, and gain inspiration. By planning ahead, staying comfortable, and being strategic with your time, you can maximize your Market experience and return home with valuable resources to elevate your design business.Remember, planning your High Point Market experience effectively is the key to making the most of this incredible event. If you’re ready to increase your interior design practice profits, work exclusively with ideal clients, and enjoy the time and resources for your extraordinary life, explore your coaching options. We’ve got your back in the business of interior design.