This spring has been a whirlwind in the very best way.
After nearly 25 years in the window treatment industry, you might think there isn’t much left to learn. But honestly, one of the things I love most about this business is that there is always something new to discover. New products. New technology. New ideas. New perspectives. And perhaps most importantly, new connections with people who understand and love this industry just as much as I do.
This spring has been filled with all of that.
IWCE in Raleigh
One of the highlights this year was having the International Window Coverings Expo (IWCE) right here in Raleigh. It felt especially exciting to have such a major industry event in my own backyard.
IWCE is always packed with learning opportunities, inspiration, and networking. This year, I attended classes on motorization and emerging technologies in window treatments, explored the vendor hall to see the latest products and innovations, attended keynote events, and had the honor of serving as a panelist during one of the sessions.
Motorization continues to be one of the fastest-growing areas in our industry, and it was valuable to learn more about how technology continues to evolve in ways that improve convenience, functionality, energy efficiency, and everyday living for homeowners.
Of course, one of the best parts of IWCE is reconnecting with industry friends from across the country and making new connections along the way. There is something energizing about being surrounded by people who truly understand and appreciate this business.
Exciting Windows Conference
Immediately following IWCE was the Exciting Windows Conference, which made for a very full, but very rewarding, week.
The conference focused heavily on business growth, customer experience, leadership, and staying ahead in an ever-changing marketplace. Events like this are a good reminder that running a successful business is about far more than beautiful fabrics and finished rooms.
It is about continuing to grow.
Continuing to improve.
Continuing to serve clients well.
After all these years, I still come home from these events with pages of notes, fresh ideas, and renewed excitement for what I do.
Makers Meet at Sunbrella
As if the spring wasn’t busy enough, the following week I headed to Anderson, South Carolina for The Makers Meet event hosted by WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America), Trivantage, along with Sunbrella.
This was such a unique and memorable experience that gave me insights I can share directly with my clients.
We toured the impressive Sunbrella manufacturing plant and learned more about the production process behind the fabrics that so many of us use and trust every day. Seeing the level of innovation, precision, and testing that goes into these fabrics gave me an even greater appreciation for the products we recommend to clients.
One of the highlights was the famous “Stain Bar” demonstration where we watched mustard, wine, blueberries, and other messy foods get cleaned off white Sunbrella fabric. It was both entertaining and genuinely impressive. YES, the white fabric came out clean!
It is one thing to hear that a fabric performs well. It is another thing to see it with your own eyes.
And yes, we also got a sneak peek at some of their upcoming fabric introductions, which is always exciting for those of us who love textiles and design.
WCAA Chapter Lake Retreat
We wrapped up this busy season with our annual WCAA Chapter Lake Retreat at Lake Gaston.
This event may look relaxed from the outside (and yes, there was shopping, a winery visit, a boat ride, wonderful food, and plenty of laughter), but it is also one of the most valuable weekends of the year.
It is a chance for workroom owners, designers, and industry professionals to gather together and truly “talk shop.” We share challenges, ideas, solutions, resources, and experiences. Some of the best learning happens during casual conversations around a kitchen table or sitting on the dock with a drink in hand.
There is something incredibly valuable about having “your people” — people who understand the unique joys and challenges of this industry. This was our 12th year getting together, hosted by one of our long-time members. We are already looking forward to next year’s retreat!
Why This Matters for My Clients
Clients may never see the classes, conferences, factory tours, or long conversations behind the scenes. But they absolutely benefit from them.
Continuing education helps me stay current on:
- New products and innovations
- Motorization and smart home technology
- Fabric performance
- Design trends
- Installation techniques
- Safety standards
- Industry best practices
Most importantly, it allows me to continue guiding clients with confidence and experience while bringing fresh ideas and solutions to every project.
After 25 years, I know that continuing education directly enhances how I serve clients, and that ongoing learning is essential to my growth in the industry.
This spring reminded me just how grateful I am to be part of such a talented, supportive, and creative industry.
