CONOVER, N.C., September 11, 2025 – Custom upholstery and casegoods manufacturer Vanguard Furniture is hosting a lineup of engaging social and educational events for interior designers at the upcoming October Furniture Market.
With programming designed to benefit interior designers at every stage of their careers and industry professionals seeking expert advice, Vanguard is once again partnering with design leaders for signature programming. On Saturday, October 25, Tracee Murphy, CEO and Principal Designer of Trade Mark Interiors and founder of The Designer Launch, will present an IDCEC approved CEU workshop: “The Psychology of Selling Luxury.” On Sunday, October 26, DesignDash co-founders Laura Umansky and Melissa Grove will host two educational events as well as live podcasts at the Vanguard showroom.
New this market, Vanguard is also hosting a Designer Sip ‘n Style social event Monday, October 27, at 6:00 p.m., on the open-sky terrace of its showroom at 301 N. Hamilton Street.
All events will be held on the fourth floor of Vanguard’s showroom at 301 N. Hamilton Street and are open to all market attendees. RSVPs to the education events are highly encouraged by email to events@vanguardfurniture.com.
Saturday, October 25, 2025
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Workshop, CEU credit
The Psychology of Selling Luxury
Presented by Tracee Murphy, acclaimed interior designer, speaker, and industry thought leader at the intersection of psychology and design, this dynamic IDCEC-approved CEU workshop explores what motivates the affluent client and reveals the psychology and strategies that turn high-value prospects into loyal relationships. Attendees will discover what luxury truly means to today’s consumer, how to build trust and credibility, and the proven keys to attracting and nurturing high-end clientele. Murphy is the CEO and Principal Designer of Trade Mark Interiors, founder of The Designer Launch educational platform, and is widely known as the Design Biz Therapist—blending her expertise in interior design with deep insights into human psychology. Her mission is to elevate the conversation around emotional intelligence in design and help businesses grow through the power of connection. Vanguard Furniture showroom, 301 N. Hamilton Street, fourth floor. RSVP recommended: events@vanguardfurniture.com
Sunday, October 26, 2025
10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Workshop
Your Pricing, Simplified: How to Bill with Confidence and Clarity
From charging hourly to fixed fee and hybrid models, this workshop explores the most effective billing methods for luxury interior designers. Led by Laura Umansky, founder of award-winning Laura U Design Collective and co-founder of DesignDash, the session will break down how to structure fees, estimate project costs, and communicate pricing with confidence. Perfect for designers refining their process or considering a complete overhaul, you’ll get the tools to develop a billing strategy that saves time, maximizes revenue, and positions your firm for success in the luxury market. Vanguard Furniture showroom, 301 N. Hamilton Street, fourth floor. RSVP recommended: events@vanguardfurniture.com
Sunday, October 26, 2025
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Workshop, CEU credit
The Luxury Playbook: 5 Marketing Moves that Win High-End Clients In this engaging session attendees will explore five key strategies for reaching and retaining luxury residential design clients. Led by DesignDash co-founder Melissa Grove, the workshop emphasizes authenticity, storytelling, exclusivity, and high-status connections—showing how each plays a role in elevating brand perception and client experience. From curating a brand that quietly signals luxury to delivering service that feels as seamless as the Four Seasons, participants will leave with clear, actionable insights for thriving in the luxury design market. Vanguard Furniture showroom, 301 N. Hamilton Street, fourth floor. RSVP recommended: events@vanguardfurniture.com
Monday, October 27, 2025
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Social
Designer Sip ‘n Style Join us after hours for market’s most memorable gathering. Enjoy curated cocktails and chef-prepared light bites on our luxe terrace for a bird’s eye view of High Point at night. Don’t miss this must-attend social event crafted especially for furniture-fashion connoisseurs. Vanguard Furniture showroom, 301 N. Hamilton Street.
