Blogfest Recap Day 2

This was my first year attending Blogfest. I was not sure what to expect. I arrived at Hearst Tower on 57th Street and 8th Avenue excited to be in New York City and ready for day two. Upon my arrival on the 44th floor, all I could focus on were the beautiful flowers on the table. You see, just the day before, I had purchased the same peonies. I took it as a sign that I was in the right place at the right time. Just a little over a year ago, I was working in a law firm in midtown, not far from the Hearst Tower, wishing I could follow my passion. I couldn’t have imagined that in such a short time, I would be in a room full of bloggers and designers. Moreover, I was in the Hearst Tower, in the presence of the editors and publishers of the magazines I read and save on my book shelves for inspiration.

I listened to the opening remarks by Kravet and Hearst group. I found everyone to be friendly and willing to share information about the design industry and how to get published. The May/June issue of Veranda was in front of me, as I listened to the designers featured in this month’s issue, Timothy Whealon and Darryl Carter. They both emphasized the importance of connecting with the client when accepting a project.

I was almost pinching myself by the time House Beautiful Editor in Chief, Newell Turner, took the stage and introduced the Next Wave Designers: Jon Call, Jill Goldberg and Michael Harold. All three designers had different perspectives about their careers and how they got started.

Here are a few of my notes:

(1) Edit, edit, edit.

(2) Find your authentic voice. Know your audience.

(3) It’s all about the details.

(4) Transparency on work, and how designer operate is very important.–Darryl Carter

(5) Just because you can gather things, doesn’t mean

you can put them together.– Darryl Carter

(6) Important design has voice of husband, wife, as well as mine.–Timothy Whealon

(7) Lighting is important in day and night. Color doesn’t need to shout at you.

It should feel light and airy.–Timothy Whealon

(8) Important to push yourself to new experiences.–Michael Harold.

(9) Make a goal, share it, put it out there. Once you share a goal,

you’re accountable for it.– Jon Call

(10) Clients have information, they think they know what to do. Designer needs to

educate client.

We visited the ELLE DECOR Modern Life Concept House, hosted by Editor in Chief Michael Boodro. It was a pleasure meeting Katie Leede and listening to her share details about the art and fabric used in her design.

After a delicious lunch, we were greeted by Editor in Chief of Traditional Home, Ann Maine, at the Kravet Showroom. She interviewed Alexa Hampton, a great designer with a big, warm personality. We laughed and Alexa did a little singing too.