My First Trade Show - April Interiors 2023
I did it! My first trade show - yes I've taken a pretty winding road to this point - having started Jericho Design House back in 2017 - but it means I feel more certain than ever that I'm building a company that will be sustainable. Both sustaining my interest and allow me to do what I love (create lovely textiles) and create textiles and homewares that will be in peoples homes for many years.
April Interiors is a long established show that seems to be very well known in the trade, which is why it appealed to me, as I am keen to build relationships with curtain makers, interior designers and upholsterers so that I can hopefully become their go-to for beautiful printed textiles.
Work in progress
I was a bit of anxious on set up day, so many unknowns and nervous if it was all going to come together.
Fortunately set up was arranged for the day before the show, so I could take my time and figure out any additional things needed to bring along the next day.
Beautiful lamp bases by Rupert Scott - perfect for displaying my lampshades ... and I love them so much I bought one from him to keep!
On the day
This is a trade only event organised by the people behind 'Curtain and Blind Makers Friendly Forum' (CABMFF) on Facebook.
It was really well attended and busy between 11am - 2pm, I had a lovely stream of people coming to browse and chat. The main feedback I got was that it was 'different' in a good way, with lots of people signing up for a trade account.
It was all trade contacts and the spread was something like this:
70% Curtain & blind makers
20% Interior Designers
10% Upholsterers
I also met lots of lovely exhibitors showing alongside me. Directly next door was Dannells, who's lampshade kits I use to make my shade. They were so lovely and even helped me carry everything to my car at the end! They also very kindly asked me to be part of the blog which you can read here.
As I am often working in isolation, it was so great to get out and meet with people and hear their positive and helpful feedback. I'm already searching for me next opportunity to do something similar in the Autumn but possibly in or near London this time.
The luggage tag off cuts were a big hit
Sample packs
Fully stock and ready to go
More info
JERICHO DESIGN HOUSE
Anna Proctor
07866 315564
anna@jerichodesignhouse.com