Going to market is a chance for trade professionals to see new furnishings, feel fabrics, sit on chairs, and most of all, connect with colleagues and new friends. As part of the Sustainability Stories event, I also built out a shipping container as a room vignette, and participated in two panel discussions. There were ups and downs in the months leading up to the event -- the day we were setting up, the 85 degree temperatures did not agree with my wallpaper and it all started peeling off -- but it all worked out and it was a great experience. There are always a few surprises AND happy accidents and all added up to a beautiful space -- and a lot of fun.

I am eternally grateful to the wonderful folks who loaned pieces; Kravet, Jaipur, Lucky Fish, Thom Filicia, Palecek, Currey & Company, Cisco, and Astek, who did another beautiful job producing my wallpaper design. 

As a side note, it seems my vignette was very popular in the evening hours -- it was reported that a couple was seen making out on the sofa (sorry Cisco! ). 

One of the highlights was meeting and interviewing Sasha Wallace, of Jaipur Living. We got to know each other via zoom in preparation for the interview and I  had a great time learning about Jaipur’s amazing social sustainability programs. One of those programs is called Manchaha where weavers are given unused yarn to create their own rugs with, and sales of those one-of-a-kind rugs go straight back to them. The rugs tell stories, about daily life, about their world, about their dreams. It’s great to feel so positive about a brand and I’ll be using them more and more in my work. 

I’d be remiss if I also didn’t shout out to Colette Shelton of Cococozy, who gave the most inspiring keynote speech I’ve ever heard. I ran to meet her after and she was every bit as genuine, fun, and smart as she was on the podium. She encouraged us to get out and do those things we’ve been thinking about (wallpaper for me) and most of all, be authentic with everything you do. I’d love to track the audience members to find out about the hundreds of ideas she inspired us to pursue! 

It was great to discover a few new favorites, and see what the vendors I already know are doing. 

Here are just a few discoveries:
Palacek - In addition to their furniture, they have a large line of organically inspired accessories, 

Jamie Young - I know them for lighting, but they also have some fantastic accent furniture and accessories.

Unique Loom  - they have a great range of carpets from vintage one of a kind to power-loomed, family friendly

Bobo Intriguing Objects - The best of flea market finds (most very carefully reproduced)

Kenneth Cobonpue - He’s such an inventive designer - prepare to be delighted!

Stay tuned for more as some new faves find their way into my projects!