Lighting, cabinetry and flooring

Know what you want to see and don’t get sidetracked

You need to be able to touch/feel/experience products. A photo doesn’t always convey these sensory feelings.

Check on product availability and health of manufacturing production

We always want to stay ahead of the trends and be a leader in the design market.

Have a plan and a schedule otherwise you will get sidetracked and not be able to get to what you were supposed to see. Also keep extra time for networking as it is equally important to the experience.

The speakers and networking is always the best for inspiration.

Loving the “working kitchen” and keeping the main kitchen as the social hub of the home.

NEW SHAPES IN FURNISHINGS THAT EXPLORE MODERN DESIGNS BUT WITH INTERESTING CHARACTER ELEMENTS THAT CAN TAKE A ROOM FROM BORING TO ‘OH, THAT’S INTERESTING'.
Exhibitors? Etc.:FURNITURE, TEXTILES, WALL COVERINGS AND NEW ACCESSORIES.

+ MAKE SURE YOU DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE YOU ARRIVE. THE SHEER NUMBER OF EXHIBITORS AND BUILDINGS TO COME THROUGH CAN BE OVERWHELMING, SO HAVE A PLAN AND WORK YOUR PLAN.
+ CHECK OUT THE SCHEDULE OF LIVE EVENTS AND PANELS AND ADD YOUR TOP 3 TO YOUR SCHEDULE. IT IS A GREAT WAY TO NETWORK AND TO ALSO GET PERSPECTIVE FROM INDUSTRY LEADERS.
+ IF YOU ARE EYEING A PARTICULAR ITEM OR LINE, SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE REP BEFORE YOU ARRIVE. EVERYONE IS VERY BUSY AND BEING PULLED IN MANY DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS AND YOUR VISIT TO MARKET WILL BE FAR MORE EFFICIENT.

AN IN-PERSON MARKET EXPERIENCE IS CRITICAL. WHILE WE ALL RELY ON ONLINE PORTALS THERE IS NOTHING LIKE SITTING ON A SOFA AND FEELING SOME FO THE FABRICS AND HAVING A LOOK AT THE FABRICATION IN PERSON. IT IS A GAME CHANGER AND WILL HEIGHTEN YOUR KNOWLEDGE WHILE BUILDING DIRECT RELATIONSHIPS WITH REPS FOR SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE LINES.

+ LEAD TIMES ARE ALWAYS AN ISSUE AND CLIENTS ARE GETTING MORE AND MORE IMPATIENT SO SHORTER LEAD TIMES IS ALWAYS A WIN FOR ME.
+ FLEXIBILITY WITH CUSTOMIZATIONS IS ALSO INCREDIBLY IMPORTANT. IF THERE IS GOING TO BE A LEAD TIME OF ANYTHING GREATER THAN 10 WEEKS, THEN A CLIENT SHOULD BE ABLE TO GET EVERYTHING THEY WANT.

MAKING SURE I IDENTIFY MY SUPPLIERS IN TWO DIFFERENT CATEGORIES: 1) SHORT LEAD TIMES AND LIMITATIONS AND 2) LONGER LEAD TIMES AND CUSTOMIZATIONS WITHOUT PUNISHMENT.

+ DO YOUR RESEARCH AND IDENTIFY THE SHOWROOMS YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO VISIT.
+ MAKE APPOINTMENTS.
+ PLAN TO ATTEND AT LEAST 3 LIVE EVENTS/PANELS, ETC.
+ ALWAYS CARRY WATER AND SNACKS…THE DAYS ARE LONG.

SHOPPING AND FINDING NEW SHAPES, INTERPRETATIONS AND CULTURAL QUES ARE THE MOST EXCITING FOR ME. ANYONE CAN SHOP BUT FINDING A DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH THAT GOES AGAINST THE GRAIN AND STATUS QUO REALLY GETS ME EXCITED.

COLOR IS COMING BACK! GONE ARE THE DAYS OF ALL GREY INTERIORS. NUDE IS CHARACTERIZED AS MORE THAN JUST BROWN AND PASTELS ARE BEING USED TO ROUND OUT A NUDE DESIGN. SO FUN.

Products and designs that can be incorporated into our work and excel our clients expectations.

Plan ahead! Research the vendors and create a list of items you are hoping to fulfill while at market.

Very! It's about relationships. A face to face goes a lot farther then an email with little value. Not only can you test products in person at market but you get to meet some of the designers or representatives that spend their livelihood believing in these designs.

Value. We are asking our clients to invest tremendously in our trust. Our clients don't want to invest in products without our seal of approval. If there are defects or damages in our purchases and the owner/vendor is unwilling to work with us we will choose to work with someone else for our next client.

Making a shopping list and finding new items we didn't know we should consider.

Definitely plan ahead. Preview the map, exhibitors and make every minute count!

Shopping and networking are the most valuable components of market for us. Seeing physical samples of products we are selling to our clients and meeting the designers/exhibitors behind them is invaluable.

Curves! I'm seeing the feminine in design everywhere right now and it's about time!

Furniture and accessories for current projects is typically my focus at Market, but I’m always on the hunt for exciting pieces, collections, or brands that might inspire future designs I take the opportunity to engage with the vendors who my team and I work with regularly to keep current with their offerings, but I am also always looking to identify and foster connections with new vendors.

Wear good walking shoes!

Sourcing within a digital environment is challenging, it’s difficult to get a true sense of a product. The ability to see and touch is so important. Market provides an opportunity to better assess the materiality, craftmanship, and overall quality, while being able to experience the scale and presence of the products in a space.

Our philosophy and approach to design remains unchanged regardless of economic fluctuations. We focus on delivering exceptional spaces that are timeless, so we are always seeking to source the highest quality goods for our clients. That said, given recent economic and supply chain challenges, conversations with vendors have shifted to center on lead times, availability of goods, and their ability to meet project schedule.

As a designer, it can be hard to pull myself out of the work since it is what I’m most passionate about, but it is important to not lose sight of the business side of the practice. I try to maintain a balance between working in the business and working on the business. Visibility of our work is critical to brand recognition and the long-term growth of the firm, so there is an emphasis on promoting projects online through awards programs and media relationships, while seeking to establish partnerships for collaborations and licensing.

Accept that you’re not going to see everything and plan ahead. Look through the program and vendor list to determine the essential showrooms, sessions, and people to see. From there, just explore and take in as much as possible.

Shopping and relationship building. Too often I’m stuck behind a screen, so I appreciate the opportunity to scope out new products. For me, the experience of finding an item that catches my eye and the conversations to learn more is what Market is all about.

I don’t focus much on trends. In part because trends very greatly depending on the sources and channels you follow, but more so because our process is more about what makes sense conceptually rather than what is au courant. That said, one trend that I’ve noticed and appreciate is the move towards a less fussy, more austere and zen-like interior.

First and foremost, I'm searching for that spark of inspiration that gets my creative juices flowing. It's incredible how a simple stroll through a showroom can uncover new ideas and trends that can shape my future projects. I'm also on the lookout for fresh and exciting products to add to my inventory. It's all about finding those hidden gems that perfectly align with my vision. Lastly, I use the market as an opportunity to test out products for my ongoing projects, ensuring they meet the high standards I strive for. I'm always drawn to eye-catching artwork, unique furniture items, and decorative accents that leave a lasting impression. I also keep an eye out for new art and textile lines that offer fresh patterns, textures, and materials. This year, I'm excited to see what Moe's, Four Hands and Arteriors have this season.

• Stay organized: Make a list of what you're specifically looking for. It helps you stay focused and ensures you don't miss out on what you're there for.
• Bring a partner: Shopping at market is much more enjoyable when you have a companion. They can provide valuable feedback and a different perspective, making the experience even more rewarding.
• Be prepared for networking: Don't forget to bring along some promotional materials, like business cards or brochures, to showcase your studio or product line. You never know who you might meet and what exciting opportunities it could lead to.

The in-person market experience is absolutely vital. As designers, we often find ourselves working in isolation. The market offers a chance to connect with fellow creatives, suppliers, and buyers on a personal level. It's an opportunity to learn from one another, share ideas, and build lasting relationships. Plus, being able to see and touch the products first-hand adds to the experience. It's the energy, the buzz, and the connections that make the in-person market experience truly invaluable.

Firstly, you want to make sure that the products you're interested in align with your client's or businesses preferences, and have the potential for a good return on investment. Secondly, budgeting wisely is crucial. It's easy to get carried away, so set a realistic budget and stick to it.

I'm focused on a few key strategies. First, I stay updated on industry trends to make sure my designs and choices are relevant. Second, I invest in myself by continuously learning through professional development that helps to sharpen my skills and stay ahead of the curve. Third, I actively look for networking opportunities and collaborations to expand my reach and tap into new markets. Lastly, I prioritize streamlining my business operations and finding ways to work more efficiently, so I can devote more time to creativity and growth.

• Get a list of vendors you've been interested in working with: Prioritize your time and energy by identifying vendors who align with your style and vision. This way, you can focus on exploring their products.
• Research speakers and editors: Take some time to look into the event's schedule and identify any speakers or editors who might be attending. Familiarize yourself with their work and seize the opportunity to connect with them during market. It could lead to exciting collaborations or valuable exposure for your brand.
• Have fun! While market is a professional setting, don't forget to enjoy the experience. Embrace the excitement of discovering new products, engaging in conversations with fellow attendees, and immersing yourself in the creative atmosphere. Building relationships and having a positive attitude can make your first-time market experience truly memorable!

I find inspiration everywhere. It could be browsing through the unique products, getting inspired by the innovative designs, engaging in conversations with buyers, designers, and other industry professionals. Each moment provides an opportunity to gain a fresh perspective.

The organic and individuality trend in design is truly captivating. It celebrates imperfections and honors the distinctiveness of each space. Taking inspiration from the principles of wabi-sabi design, incorporating wiggly furniture, warm earthy tones, along with nostalgic vintage elements, results in spaces that exude a moodier aesthetic and embody personality-driven design. What resonates most with me is how these trends align perfectly with my own design ethos. Instead of chasing fleeting trends, I prioritize the individuality of my clients, allowing their personal experiences and preferences to shape the spaces I create. This year's design trends are not only visually appealing but also deeply meaningful. They offer a refreshing departure from conformity and encourage the creation of spaces that are as unique as the individuals who live in them.

For this market, we will be looking for new and emerging decorative accessory lines, wall art and occasional furniture. We have already pre-bought Christmas so we are focusing on new Fall looks for the showroom. What we love about Las Vegas is the ability to find smaller lines, or new lines that others have not already discovered. Lines that are more " west coast " driven in styling and presentation.

1. Be sure to map out ahead of time where the " new product " temporaries are, or a showcase done by the market to feature new vendors. Hit them first....Write orders, and/or grab all of their information. Take detail notes, and photos to remind yourself. 2. Then proceed to your best selling vendors to see what is new. Multi line showrooms are excellent sources for amazing new product. 3. If you are attending panels, or meet & greets at Market, ask the other attendees - Hey, what have you seen that is exciting ? write them down ! "

It is always the best to touch, see and feel....while we all got good at " covid buying " online, there is nothing better than seeing it in person. Feel the weight, do the materials look right ? Is the color as shown ? Also, since we do such a big online business with Chairish.com and our own website, I need the face time with vendors to discuss programs and plans of execution. Phone calls, nor emails are ever very productive. Face to face meeting at market is ideal.

While attending market, search out those vendors- lines that want to " partner " with your store or business. Ask for specials...on going free freight programs, extended terms, exclusive product for your area. Discuss increasing margins with them.

We are limiting the amount of lines we carry, and focusing on those vendors, lines and reps that support us. Again, making a partnership of our relationship. By doing this, it's the old 80-20 rules in retail or business, 80% of your business is done by 20% of your lines. We have discovered those lines with poor customer service, unprofessional reps, selling heavily discounted online and not working with us on a daily basis, we no longer have the time and effort for. If they want to sell everyone on the block, or are constantly inventing " new programs " for sales to us, we have dropped from our line package or have steered clear of all together.

Make an extensive list of products, categories and lines you are looking for before you go. Use the Las Vegas pre-market guide as your source. Create a realistic budget for the market. Yes, you can cut back on orders after market, but if you are deleting over half of your orders, you have wasted your time. Be sure to attend one or two panels - meet & greets for education and business growth. Take advantage of showroom cocktail parties to get to know your rep, or the personnel of the showroom for your future customer service needs.

Shopping....my favorite thing to do! Sourcing, looking at displays, seeing how lines go together in a showroom setting. I am always inspired by panels and networking but I try to reserve 75% of my trip for buying and resourcing, and 25% for panels and networking. I try to reserve the networking for the evening or early morning so that it doesn't break up my day doing the shopping and resourcing.

I am very much into the Causal West -Coast / California style with neutral colors and organic textures. The tone on tone scheme that still makes a statement.

Coming to Market, specifically the Las Vegas Market, fulfills everything I need to create a Fantastic & Unique Showroom @ J&B Home Decor & Gifts. Here I can shop for Accent Furniture, Home Decor Pieces, Art, Gourmet Treats, Candles, Gift Items for every occasion, & of course Christmas Decor.Another major thing that all the Showrooms @ the Las Vegas Market offer is Inspiration! Energy to find that Next-Best-Thing!!!

My Top Tip for coming to Market whether it's your 1st time or like me my 17th Las Vegas Market is to come prepared. Have a plan of what product you need to see, which showrooms you need to see, what categories need to be fill to make the buying trip successful. Another important tip is to utilize the Las Vegas Market Guide & the App.Plan out which building & which floors have the Showrooms that you want to see. The Buildings & the new Expo are designed to maximize your time in the best way.

For me the in-person experience of being @ Market is Huge for so many reasons---Seeing & touching the products & items , gaining inspiration, finding that Wow Item that you didn't even know that you were looking for, & of course the Friendships that are there to be made in every showroom. Look people in the eye, smile, & always say "Please & Thank-You"!!!

In any economy selecting & buying for a store or a showroom is always a gamble. Meaning that yes the items must be on trend for your clientele but they must also be cost effective for both the store owner & the shopper. Choices should be unique & special yet blend w/the decor of your existing clients while always sparking joy in your eyes when you or they look @ an item that you have brought into your store.

Planning for a successful future can make your head spin with excitement in that one must stay true to the Look, Feel, & Vibe of ones store yet be willing to step out of your comfort zone & grow.That's why coming to Market is so important. Opening your eyes to everything that is available in one location. Take it all in, take notes, revisit a showroom or product, & trust your instinct.

Your 1st time to any Market can be scary & intimidating. That's where doing your homework ahead of time is crucial. Jonathan & I (J&B) used to think that we needed to walk every floor in every building. LOL That's where using the Market Guides is so important. Map out the buildings & floors that pertain to your store. Give yourself time limits in each showroom yet be flexible. Engage in conversations but---keep them brief--LOL.

My inspiration @ the Las Vegas Market comes from Everything!!! Stepping onto campus where the greeters are saying "Good Morning", the excitement of the showrooms & seeing new products that are just being introduced, & the Friendships that have been formed over these 17 Las Vegas Markets literally makes Me Smile!!!So all of it combined from start to finish gives me Energy, Inspiration, & Joy!!!

If I had to pick a favorite design trend for 2023/2024 it would be the use of Color. Color in Art, Home Decor, Accent Furniture, anything that makes you smile when you look at it. I also love the continuing use of Velvet, Mixed Metals, & anything w/Texture.