By Rachel Fasciani
While large summer markets continue to grapple with shifting attendance patterns, smaller regional gatherings are increasingly resonating with designers seeking something different: highly curated product discovery, meaningful networking and a stronger connection to makers. Case in point: Fenimore Lane hosted by Ariel Okin.
A sense of place
Held on June 6-7th at the Mayflower Auberge in Washington, Connecticut, the event brought forth conversations, experiences, and specialty goods. Now in its third year, we asked what led to choosing the Mayflower Auberge as the host location. Okin shared that it is, “an incredibly magical property rooted in beautiful, charming and unique design …I always envisioned the summit at this location”.
The Mayflower Auberge is set back among the rolling hills of Connecticut and the Fenimore Lane Market is spread across the property so that guests may experience multiple elements of the design summit and market as well as the property itself. Guests wandered through the Shakespeare Garden, where pea gravel paths, abundant plantings and a bust of the Bard set the tone for the weekend. The gravel path gave way to entry into the Spoonflower-hosted tent, where reams of fabric festooned the canopy, and vendors merchandised their wares on fabric-layered tables. Inside each tent was a carefully laid out charcuterie board as well as custom-designed bars offering an assortment of cocktails to parched guests. The atmosphere struck a balance between relaxed luxury and understated elegance.
This pattern was on repeat across the property, and Okin explained, “We had three tents and over 650 guests this year, so the scale was much larger this year than in years past.” The growth reflects a broader appetite for highly curated design experiences. Rather than navigating sprawling convention centers, attendees moved easily between vendors, conversations, and hospitality moments, creating an environment that felt more akin to a private gathering than a traditional trade event.
The emphasis on female-owned businesses also distinguished Fenimore Lane from traditional trade events, highlighting the growing influence of women entrepreneurs across home furnishings, decorative accessories, and artisanal goods.
Objects with a story
The products shown were exceptional, for their quality, craftsmanship, and individuality. Standouts were Aubrey Atelier’s Cali lamp, created from a terracotta base, hand-finished, and with hardware in unlacquered brass that allows for aging patina. Delicate daisy-chained linens were shown by Over the Moon, and Johanna Howard was on scene with her unmatchable, dip dyed throws.
Art was also an important element to this show, with painters such as Lucy Clare Spooner and Inslee Fariss, while vintage and antique vendors such as The Sleepy Flea, Alekka, and Found proffered framed prints alongside the ever-sought-after vintage Nantucket basket.
Maggie Bentley Designs brought forth a standing arrangement of wicker pitchers, but the star of her table was an elegant, silk scarf embellished flower press that is customizable with your monogram. We can see it now at Bunny’s Trade Secrets show next May.
The return of curation
Across categories, a common thread emerged: an emphasis on craftsmanship, heritage and individuality. Whether through hand-finished lighting, artisanal textiles, original artwork or antiques, exhibitors offered products that prioritized storytelling and provenance over mass-market appeal.
While the products are a draw, Fenimore Lane’s greatest appeal is the experience itself. Set against the backdrop of the Mayflower Auberge, the event offered a reminder that in an increasingly digital and fast-moving industry, designers still value opportunities to slow down, discover thoughtfully made products, and connect directly with the people behind them.
As the design industry continues to evolve, Fenimore Lane demonstrates why smaller, highly curated gatherings are gaining momentum. What they may lack in scale, they more than make up for in craftsmanship, community, and a sense of discovery.
Note: Featured image is Ben Rosser
