Don’t get me wrong. I am eager to finally visit High Point Market this October on behalf of Nationwide Marketing Group. It feels like a long time coming, after years of hearing secondhand accounts from designers who consider this furniture market a can’t-miss event each year. Plus, I’m a sucker for design, with a Bachelor of Arts degree and personal experience with home renovation and interior design.
Honestly, attending Market seems like a natural fit for me. So why am I scared?
Fear of Missing Out
Yes, FOMO. With so much to do and see every single day, how will I fit it all in? From keynote speakers and expert panels to educational workshops, social events and Vendor showrooms, it feels impossible to experience it all — and that’s because it is for just one person.
With over 40 NMG Vendors alone, plus more than 2,000 total exhibitors, 100-plus educational sessions and over 150 networking events, High Point is designed so attendees can create a customized experience based on individual product needs and interests.
Rather than set myself up for failure, I’m arriving with a plan that includes prioritizing key NMG Vendor partners and attending sessions that will help me better understand the top trends and consumer insights NMG Members need to know.
Inspiration Overload
Given that High Point Market is at the forefront of all things furniture and interior design, I am genuinely concerned that I’ll want one of everything I see. (Though I suppose that should be a greater concern for my husband.) Either way, my level of self-control will be tested to the max.
But is there really such a thing as too much inspiration?
For me, knowing where my home is lacking is a good place to start when it comes to refining my wish list. And the same goes for Independent retailers at Market. Knowing where you might have gaps on your floor or the type of customer you are trying to reach will help you make more informed choices when faced with all the latest possibilities.
What’s Your Name Again?
Confession time. Remembering names is not a strength for me. Yet, I’m about to network with a lot of new people, including Vendors, Members, designers and other industry experts. And of course, making new connections is a major benefit of attending Market, so let me go ahead and apologize now. If you meet me in High Point, NC, and I later forget your name, I’m sorry.
Be sure to bring your business cards and wear that name badge proudly for all the folks like me who are challenged in this way. And do prioritize networking. A whopping 75,000 attendees are expected over the five days of Market — and while that may sound overwhelming, it’s also a prime opportunity to build relationships with peers in your industry and likeminded entrepreneurs and designers from around the U.S.
Who knows? Maybe I’ll meet you!
