HIGH POINT – Universal Furniture has unveiled its event lineup for the Learning Center for the upcoming April High Point Market.
With events running from April 24-27, the showroom will host a series of expert-led seminars and panel discussions, curated to provide industry professionals with actionable insights into evolving design technologies, luxury branding, operational efficiency and the psychology of client spaces.
In addition, the Universal to the Trade Designer’s Lounge is open April 24, noon-5 p.m., and April 25-27, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Available to Universal to the trade account holders, designers can open an account on the spot. Sponsored by Rue, Valdese Weavers, Moore & Giles and Regina Andrew Detroit. Device charging and free Wi-Fi are available.
Friday, April 24
2 p.m., The Hustle
Inspired by the launch of their new podcast, Hustle Adjacent, Arianne Bellizaire of Arianne Bellizaire Design and Kelly Finley of Joy Street Design will engage in a conversation about building a successful creative business while managing the many demands of a full and vibrant life. Moderated by House Beautiful’s Director of Special Projects Carisha Swanson.
4 p.m., The Cost of the Wrong Client and How to Stop Paying It
Ginna Christensen, creative recovery specialist, will present a practical session focusing on the hidden cost of misaligned clients and helping designers get clear on who they work best with and why.
Saturday, April 25
10 a.m., The Profitable Studio Formula: Scale Your Design Practice the Right Way
Melissa Galt, design business coach, will reveal the five critical pivots that turn a busy designer into a profitable studio owner, without burnout or sacrifice. Attendees will learn how to price for profitability, hire strategically, market authentically, discover efficiently and systematize effectively.
2 p.m., Six-Figure Snafus: How to Mitigate Your Most Expensive Challenges
Designers Today Executive Editor Cindy Hodnett talks with designers Kristi Hopper (Kristi Hopper Designs) and Dann Foley (Dann Foley Lifestyle) about adversity and how they gained awareness that has strengthened their businesses. Plus, learn to recognize the red flags with accountant Blair Ryan, The Dove Agency.
4 p.m., Trend to Transaction: Monetizing What Clients Want Next
Deb Barrett, Decor Tours, connects the dots between consumer purchasing behavior, emerging design trends and real-world business opportunities. Drawing from current market introductions in product, style and color, this presentation breaks down what’s driving today’s design decisions, exploring how trends develop, why they matter and how designers can move beyond simply following them to strategically selling them.
Sunday, April 26
10 a.m., Clarity Over Chaos: Using AI to Strengthen Visibility, Communication & Design Decisions
Panelists Jennifer Smiga, Ultraviolet Agency; Mary Beth Chau, Materio; and Jenna Gaidusek, AI for Interior Designers, will offer strategies for getting discovered by ideal client, how AI supports consistent communication and creating compelling client presentations.
2 p.m., Stop Guessing. Start Leading. Build Your Design Business to Run Like A Well-Oiled Machine
Gail Doby, co-founder of Pearl Collective, will focus on a business diagnostic that reveals where your firm is strong, where it’s strained and what deserves your focus now.
4 p.m., Ten Things You Need to Do For Your Business Right Now
Industry veterans Joseph Aldrich (The Cypress Group) and Melissa Mittag (Collyer & Company) will share what they’re seeing across successful practices. Designed as an open exchange, this session emphasizes audience participation, honest insight and practical takeaways.
Monday, April 27
10 a.m., Hospitality: The New Service Standard for your Design Business
Presented by Certified Unreasonable Hospitality Coach Rick Campos, this workshop will break down the customer journey as it relates to the business of design and uncover opportunities to transform ordinary moments in your process into extraordinary and memorable experiences.
2 p.m., Say This, Not That: 5 Messaging Fixes That Attract Better Design Clients
Interior designer and branding expert John McClain, John McClain Design, breaks down five simple but powerful messaging shifts that immediately change how potential clients see you, trust you and decide to work with you.
All Universal Learning Center events take place at the company’s showroom located at 101 S. Hamilton St. RSVP for these events online.
