Designer Tips to Maximize High Point Market Experience

High Point is one of those rare places where you really can connect with designers at every level of the market and from anywhere in the world. When you are around your people you can let your guard down, share your expertise, and learn from others. It’s an amazing place to refresh and just see what is out there. But whether you’ve been before or you’re a complete newbie planning your very first visit, it is going to be an epic experience–but you always need to go in with a plan. Having a clear plan in mind will make your experience stress-free and allow you to experience all that High Point has to offer you as a creative person.

How To Maximize Your Time

Do not wait until you get there to make appointments with key vendors. There are some vendors that will not let you in the door without an appointment. Plus, having set times to see known vendors gives you a schedule to work the rest of your day around. Then, you can invest some time in exploring sources you didn’t know existed, which is truly the main point of High Point. 

Stretch yourself. Expand your sources and give yourself some fresh options. You need different styles, and different price points, all for different clients. I’d suggest that before attending, you make a list of your vendors organized by category and scan that list for holes. Whichever categories you don’t have at least three to four, preferably five to seven vendors are the ones you should be focusing your time on at High Point.

Enjoying the High Point Experience

High Point can be an invigorating and enjoyable time as long as you follow a few smart tips. Comfy shoes for walking are a must. Shuttles are available, but you will be doing a lot of walking! You’ll see me in my great stilettos during panels or while speaking, but for the rest of the day, I keep a pair of walking shoes to change into. You’ll also definitely want to bring an extra battery for your devices, as the Wi-Fi is temperamental and will drain your batteries rather quickly. Finally, take advantage of the tours that are offered when you get there. Tours are a great jumping-off point and give you some grounding in High Point while also setting you up with some new friends to check in with throughout the rest of the weekend. Ultimately, it’s important to expand your sources and try new vendors while at High Point, but you should also be enjoying the experience and having fun while you’re there!

If you want to learn more about The Affluent Creative, check out www.melissagalt.com/ac030