The alarm began to buzz at 3:00 am, and after I realized that it wasn't a mean prank, that I really was catching a 5:20 am flight out of Baltimore, I jumped out of bed excited for my first High Point Furniture Market. The trip to BWI, Charlotte then Greensboro went off without a hitch, was upgraded at the AVIS counter, and found parking right downtown! (Nevermind the fact that it was $20...)
I eagerly searched for Main Street and the IHFC building. After picking up my admission badge, I headed up to the 5th floor of the building to begin my journey. Who knew there were so many lighting, furniture, fixture, home accent, and of course BEDDING options. I guess the team at High Point did! Vegas had prepared me but to see it all again, was impressive.
After about three hours and seeing some of the most fantastic beds available, we headed to lunch and were greeted by more ISPA members. I must say, and maybe I am prejudice, but we have a fantastic industry full of interesting, fun, and down right good people! I saw a number of new products including foundations, foam beds, spring beds, toppers, new lines, updated lines, a ribbon cutting and some pretty creative and modern advertising approaches. WELL DONE BEDDING!!
Sunday morning began with pancakes and coffee and one of High Points best kept secrets while enjoying the company of one well-known FT journalist. Day 2 at market was filled with more great products and great people. I saw a lot of people carrying around stuffed animals and I tried to barter two for my kids, but no such luck. Exhausted and yet energized, I said good bye to High Point and while I drove back to Greensboro in the warm Carolina sun, I thought about what new things I might see this fall!
I look forward to seeing more great ideas and concepts in Vegas. And when I see you, please… don't ask me what my favorite bed is, that's like asking me which child is my favorite! Here's just a taste of what I experienced at the Market!
High Point Market 2011 from Karin Mahoney on Vimeo.
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