Welcome to the bustling world of High Point Market in North Carolina! Taking place from October 26-30, 2024, this event is the largest home furnishings trade show in the world. It can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially for first-timers. But fear not, dear designers! Here’s your ultimate guide to navigating High Point Market like a pro, brought to you exclusively by HSID Dallas. Our owner and executive director, Kim Bailey, has been attending High Point for years, and we’re excited to share some of her insider tips with you.
Plan Ahead
High Point Market spans over 11 million square feet with about 2,000 exhibitors. To make the most of your visit, start by planning ahead. Download maps, shuttle routes, and event schedules from the High Point Market website. Prioritize the showrooms and events you don’t want to miss.
Insider Tip: Be sure to register with High Point Market in advance to receive an entrance badge before the market begins. This will save you a lot of time on your first day!
Comfort is Key
You’ll be on your feet a lot, so wear comfortable shoes. Trust us, your feet will thank you! Also, dress in layers. The weather can be unpredictable, and showrooms can vary in temperature.
Insider Tip: Bring a lightweight raincoat as light showers are often a common occurrence during market week.
Use the Shuttle Service
High Point Market offers a free shuttle service that runs between major venues and hotels. This is a lifesaver, especially when you’re trying to cover a lot of ground. Make sure to grab a shuttle map and schedule.
Insider Tip: Use the time you spend traveling to and from market to get to know other market attendees and develop professional connections.
Make Appointments, But Stay Flexible
While it’s great to have appointments, leave some room for spontaneity. Some of the best finds happen when you least expect them. If you see a showroom that catches your eye, don’t hesitate to pop in.
Insider Tip: If you are pressed for time, stop in and just grab a business card so you can remember their name, location and you will have their website for future exploration.
Pace Yourself
With so much to see, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Take breaks, stay hydrated, and don’t try to do everything in one day. Spread your visit over several days if possible.
Insider Tip: Group the showrooms you want to see by area so that you can spend more time visiting showrooms and less time traveling from place to place.
Network, Network, Network
High Point Market is not just about products; it’s about people. Take advantage of networking events and social gatherings. You never know who you might meet – a new client, a mentor, or a future collaborator.
Insider Tip: Find time to attend speaking engagements or evening parties. These events are a great way to learn and network while in High Point.
Capture the Moment
Bring a good camera or make sure your phone is charged. You’ll want to capture all the inspiration and ideas you come across. Plus, photos are a great way to remember where you saw that perfect piece.
Insider Tip: As you enter a showroom, take a photo of its name. This way, you’ll know that all subsequent photos are from that showroom. Later, organize these photos into albums for easy reference.
Stay Organized
Keep track of business cards, brochures, and notes. A small binder or a digital app can help you stay organized. This will make follow-ups much easier once you’re back home.
Insider Tip: A spacious crossbody bag is great for carrying personal essentials and collecting vendor information. If it gets too full, take photos of the materials for future reference.
Explore Beyond the Market
High Point is a charming town with great restaurants and shops. Take some time to explore and enjoy the local flavor. It’s a great way to unwind after a busy day at the market.
Insider Tip: The best restaurants fill up fast, so make reservations in advance, ideally while developing your market schedule prior to your visit.
Have Fun!
Last but not least, have fun! High Point Market is an incredible experience filled with inspiration, innovation, and creativity. Enjoy every moment and soak in all the design goodness. You will connect with other creatives from around the country and make lifelong friendships!
With these tips in hand, you’re ready to conquer High Point Market. Happy designing from all of us at HSID Dallas!