How to Prepare for Market as an Independent Designer

If you’re an independent designer or an interior design professional, you’ve likely heard of Market—those exciting, fast-paced events where the design world comes together to discover what’s next.

Markets like High Point and Las Vegas Market happen several times a year, bringing together manufacturers, vendors, and designers from across the country. They’re where new products debut, emerging design trends take shape, and industry professionals connect, collaborate, and get inspired.

With one of the biggest furniture markets coming up this October, you might be wondering: How can I make the most of my time there?

Here are my tried-and-true tips for not just surviving—but truly thriving—at Market.

1. Register Early and Bring Your Pass

It sounds simple, but registering early is one of the easiest ways to save time and stress. Get your pass mailed to you ahead of time if possible.

That way, you can skip the long check-in lines and head straight into the showrooms when you arrive. Market days move fast, and nothing kills momentum like wasting the first hour of your morning in line.

2. Make a Vendor Plan

Before you leave, make a list of the vendors and showrooms you want to visit, then organize them by location.

A few planning tips:

• Focus on one building at a time and work top to bottom (or vice versa).

• If your vendors are spread out, group them by area or street to cut down on walking and elevator waits.

• Prioritize your must-see showrooms first.

Market is huge, and a solid plan saves hours—letting you actually enjoy the experience instead of rushing from one place to another.

3. Don’t Forget Food & Snacks

Market days are long. You’ll walk miles, sit on countless sofas, and take in a flood of inspiration. Somewhere in all that, you’re going to need fuel.

• Ask your vendor reps if their showrooms serve snacks or lunch.

• Know where nearby cafes or food vendors are located.

• Pack your own snacks—protein bars, trail mix, or nuts—for quick energy between stops.

Keeping your energy steady helps you stay sharp and focused, especially when you’re making important sourcing or product decisions.

4. Have a Purpose for Each Visit

Yes, part of Market is exploration and inspiration—but it’s also a business investment. Before you go, write down a few key goals:

• Test a specific furniture line for comfort and quality.

• Compare pricing or finishes across vendors.

• Source unique pieces for upcoming client projects.

By setting your intentions, you’ll come home with not just pretty pictures, but real solutions that move your design business forward.

5. Dress for Comfort (and the Weather)

Your outfit matters more than you think! You’ll be on your feet all day, walking between buildings and testing furniture nonstop.

• Choose polished yet comfortable shoes (and maybe pack a backup pair or Band-Aids).

• Wear layers—you’ll move between air-conditioned showrooms and outdoor areas.

• Check the forecast before packing. A light jacket or umbrella can save your day if the weather shifts.

When you’re comfortable, you can focus on what matters most—soaking up inspiration and networking with confidence.

6. Pack a “Market Survival Kit”

Here’s what I never attend Market without:

• Snacks + water: For energy on the go.

• Mini medicine kit: Ibuprofen, Tums, and a few Band-Aids—trust me.

• Portable charger: Your phone will drain fast from all the photos and notes.

• Notebook or notes app: Record inspiration, vendor details, and client-specific finds.

• Your Market pass: Double-check before leaving the hotel—replacing it takes time you don’t want to lose.

A little preparation goes a long way when you’re moving through dozens of showrooms a day.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, Market is about two things: inspiration and growth. It’s where you stay connected to the design community, discover what’s next, and strengthen your business.

Every Market I attend teaches me something new—whether it’s a product line I fall in love with or a trend that reshapes how I approach a project. But these essentials—planning ahead, dressing smart, and showing up with intention—are the key to making the most of it all.

So pack your bags, bring your vision, and enjoy the experience. You’ll come home with new ideas, stronger industry connections, and the kind of creative spark that fuels your next great project.

✨ Ready to take your interior design business to the next level? Whether you’re prepping for Market, refining your client experience, or building your brand, our team at Hamilton Park Interiors offers professional insights, design partnerships, and trade resources to help you grow.
Connect with us today to learn more about collaborating as an independent designer or joining our trade program.