Beyond Beautiful: Lighting for Impact and Profitability

Monday, October 27 1pm | Crystorama Showroom

Lighting is more than a finishing touch—it’s a powerful driver of design impact and profitability. Join designers Jessica Duce and Elizabeth Scruggs, moderated by Ericka Saurit, for a candid conversation on how thoughtful lighting choices create impact, enhance client satisfaction, and add to your bottom line. Discover practical strategies, real-world examples, and actionable takeaways to help you leverage lighting as both a signature design element and a pathway to profitability.

Let’s Work Together! Brand partnerships in the new design economy.

Monday, October 27 10am Regina Andrews Detroit

We’ve entered a new era of design; one where interior designers aren’t just creating beautiful spaces but building brand empires. With a strong point of view and creative influence, designers now hold real market power. So how do you turn that into opportunity? Whether you’re just starting to think about partnerships or ready to elevate your brand authority, this candid conversation with RAD Brand Ambassadors will give you clarity on what’s working now. Hear from designers who are building successful collaborations and walk away inspired by what’s possible in the new design economy.

Get The YES And Strengthen Your Design Practice With Neuroaesthetics

Sunday, October 26 2pm at The Point | HPMKT

Back by popular demand! Interior designers are increasingly embracing neuroaesthetics, the science of how our environment and art affect the mind and nervous system. Learn how to elevate your design decisions by using science-backed principles. You will come away with new vocabulary, greater confidence, and strategies to get more client yeses that increase profit in your business.

Hear from industry leaders in this emerging field as they explore neuroaesthetic principles in lighting, biophilia, color, pattern, balance, art, and personalized design. This inspiring and informative conversation from Spring Market continues into the Fall thanks to our sponsors: Élan Design, Saurit Creative, Visual Comfort & Co., Kravet, and Phillips Collection.

Featuring: Ericka Saurit, Moderator, Panelists: Jennifer Farrell and Eryn Oruncak 

Own Your Narrative

Sunday, October 26 9am

American Leather Showroom | Showplace 5th floor

If you're ready to stand out in your own authentic way, this is where it begins. People connect with people—not just services. That's why your story matters.

Join brand and marketing pros Dawn Brinson of A New Day Creative Communications & Marketing, industry storyteller and HPXD Director Jane Dagmi, and Ericka Saurit of Saurit Creative as they share the key strategies to shape your brand narrative in a way that feels aligned AND lights you up. You’ll dive into hands-on exercises to start building your story live in the room—and leave with ways to use it to attract the clients you really want to work with. 

Featuring: Ericka Saurit, Jane Dagmi, Dawn Brinson

Targeting the New Generation of Affluence

Saturday, October 25 8:30am | Verellen Showroom (1 CEU)

Today’s affluent clients are making high-investment design decisions through a new lens; one shaped by values, wellness, and emotional connection. This CEU presentation explores how luxury has evolved post-2020 and how designers can align enduring craftsmanship with modern priorities. We’ll unpack shifting consumer psychology, the role of storytelling and identity in your sales and marketing approach, and how to reframe pricing as a conversation about value and longevity. Backed by behavioral insights and market data, this session equips designers to confidently guide clients toward meaningful, timeless investments.

Define Your Niche: Find Your Focus to Fuel Your Growth

Want better clients, higher visibility, and a design practice that lights you up? The secret isn’t doing everything—it’s doing YOUR thing. Our panel of pros found their focus and turned it into success that speaks volumes. Whether it’s bold color, luxe hospitality vibes, or designing for life’s golden years, build your better business, with dream clients & more joy in your work. You’ll get specific strategies, real-world tips and insights you can use right now. Ideas and inspiration you need to stand out and thrive.

Panelists: 

• Isabel Ladd

• Gary Inman

• Amber Guyton

• Lori Carpenter

Moderator: Ericka Saurit

Friday, October 24 9-5pm Science in Design Symposium: When Design Heals @Congdon Yards 

If you’re ready to position your design practice as a wellness strategy—not simply a source of beauty—this day is for you. The full-day educational experience is $97 (early bird pricing has been extended). Even better, every attendee receives a $200 credit toward the Science in Design Certification Program (valued at $895), making this an exceptional investment in professional development.

Register at https://scienceindesign.com/events/

Whether you’re building your brand from scratch or refining an existing one, this is the Office Hours for you.

During the virtual session, experienced marketing expert Ericka Saurit will offer personalized brand strategy support, answering all your presubmitted and real-time questions about your most pressing branding and marketing challenges.

Whether you’re creating for Instagram, your website or an email campaign, the need to generate high-quality, on-brand content has never been higher. While the demand may seem daunting, branding and marketing strategist Ericka Saurit is here to let you in on a little industry secret: In this era of constant content, your new secret weapon is clarity, not hustle. Her interactive workshop breaks down how to break free from the grind. She’ll demonstrate ways to use ChatGPT as not merely a copy-and-paste machine but a foolproof tool to multiply one strong idea into five strategic content pieces that work across all your marketing channels. After walking you through the steps to define, refine and upload your unique voice and brand story, she’ll show you exactly how to prompt ChatGPT to produce a suite of aligned marketing content that moves your clients from discovery to inquiry. Whether you’re new to AI or looking to sharpen your skills, this class will teach you to turn ChatGPT into a brand-enforcing creative partner. - BOH

I'm excited to continue my year-long educational series with Business of Home this month with a workshop tailor-made to help designers understand where AI fits into their holistic marketing program—and how to employ these tools to express what makes their business unique, resonant, and highly referable.

Design is powerful. But without the right words, even your best work can go unseen.

After two decades in the global design industry, I’ve seen how deeply our spaces shape us—and how often designers struggle to articulate the value of what they do.

That’s why I’ve partnered with the Designer Society of America to offer something more than just advice—a monthly column with one powerful idea at a time. Designed to sharpen your message and elevate your voice. Thoughtful. Actionable. Rooted in real design practice.

Because the right marketing message doesn’t just describe what you do—it defines what you’re here to change.

Your work already speaks volumes. Let’s make sure your message does too. 

Subscribe to my monthly DSA column here!

Our Work-it-Out Wednesday Workshop this month offers an insider's only look into how MSC founder Ericka Saurit creates narrative-driven brands.

In this hands-on session, she'll walk you through the exact process she uses (and teaches in MSC) to create a brand from the ground up: from how she begins a narrative message, to designing an identity system, to building a website and to planning a social strategy, watch over her shoulder to see how to apply the MSC framework to your own brand building process.

Want the recording? Get it and access to our monthly workshops, quarterly office hours, and much much more with your Marketing School for Creatives membership.

Design is powerful. But without the right words, even your best work can go unseen.

After two decades in the global design industry, I’ve seen how deeply our spaces shape us—and how often designers struggle to articulate the value of what they do.

That’s why I’ve partnered with the Designer Society of America to offer something more than just advice—a monthly column with one powerful idea at a time. Designed to sharpen your message and elevate your voice. Thoughtful. Actionable. Rooted in real design practice.

Because the right marketing message doesn’t just describe what you do—it defines what you’re here to change.

Your work already speaks volumes. Let’s make sure your message does too. 

Subscribe to my monthly DSA column here!

OWN YOUR NARRATIVE Workshop

People connect with people—not just services. ⁠
That’s why your story matters.⁠
⁠
If you’re ready to stand out in your own authentic way, this is where it begins.

Join brand and marketing pros Ericka Saurit of Saurit Creative and Dawn Brinson of A New Day Creative Communications on August 14, 8:45 a.m. as they share five key strategies to shape your brand narrative in a way that feels aligned AND lights you up.

You’ll dive into hands-on exercises to start building your story live in the room—and leave with ways to use it to attract the clients you really want to work with.⁠
⁠
Taking place at the American Leather showroom in High Point, this intimate, hands-on workshop is limited to just 25 attendees.

We’re keeping it cozy so you’ll have space to ask, share, and truly connect. Don’t miss your chance—RSVP today! There will be some light breakfast bites and beverages served.

Please stay after and shop the HPXD Annual Sizzle Sale at American Leather and 25 other brands.

Beyond Booked Panel + Event in High Point

Beyond Booked is a fast-paced, half-day educational event bringing together nationally recognized experts in vacation rental design, branding, and marketing. Designed for short-term rental hosts, investors, and property managers, the program offers actionable insights to help create more compelling, guest-focused, and profitable stays.

With High Point designated as a Certified Autism Destination, Beyond Booked also shines a spotlight on the importance—and opportunity—of inclusive travel. Attendees will learn how accessible design not only supports guests with physical and cognitive disabilities but also provides a competitive edge in today’s evolving hospitality market.

Conceived by the team behind the award-winning Vacation Rental Design Summit, the afternoon is rooted in strengthening High Point’s year-round short-term rental landscape—though the takeaways apply far beyond the local market. Attendees will walk away with inspiration, tools, and proven strategies to design smarter, market with clarity, and ultimately earn more.

Please stay after and shop the HPXD Annual Sizzle Sale featuring 25+ home furnishings brands.

Our Work-it-Out Wednesday Workshop this month is all about you and your message...if you're struggling to capture your brand voice, write your tagline or brand script, or any other wordy bits for your brand, this hands-on WORDshop is one you won't want to miss!

Want the recording? Get it and access to our monthly workshops, quarterly office hours, and much much more with your Marketing School for Creatives membership.

Design is powerful. But without the right words, even your best work can go unseen.

After two decades in the global design industry, I’ve seen how deeply our spaces shape us—and how often designers struggle to articulate the value of what they do.

That’s why I’ve partnered with the Designer Society of America to offer something more than just advice—a monthly column with one powerful idea at a time. Designed to sharpen your message and elevate your voice. Thoughtful. Actionable. Rooted in real design practice.

Because the right marketing message doesn’t just describe what you do—it defines what you’re here to change.

Your work already speaks volumes. Let’s make sure your message does too. 

Subscribe to my monthly DSA column here!

Instagram shouldn’t be your entire marketing plan—but it’s certainly one powerful part of it. In part two of my Social Storytelling series, I’ll take you deeper into the visual side of self-promotion, dissecting how your Instagram feed, stories and content work together to deliver a cohesive, scroll-stopping message about your unique design brand.

I'm excited to continue my year-long educational series with Business of Home this month with a workshop tailor-made to help designers understand where Instagram fits into their holistic marketing program—and how to employ the platform to express what makes their business unique, resonant, and highly referable.

LinkedIn Live: Product Launches for Interior Designers

Time: Monday, June 30th, 12 PM EST

Hosts: Nicole Lashae Ben & Ericka Saurit

Join us for an insightful conversation on how interior designers can successfully market themselves to manufacturers.

We’ll share expert strategies on:

• Licensing, private label, and white label options to help designers choose the best route for their brand.

• E-commerce strategies for curating and selling existing products—an alternative to launching a custom line.

• Tips for building successful collaborations with manufacturers.

Whether you're exploring new revenue streams or aiming to expand your brand, this session is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss.

Save the date and join us live!

Our Work-it-Out Wednesday Workshop this June is all about publicity!

Learn how to set goals, define your PR strategy and identify publicity opportunities for your brand with 24/7 Agency founder Serena Martin.

Want the recording? Get it and access to our monthly workshops, quarterly office hours, and much much more with your Marketing School for Creatives membership.

Design is powerful. But without the right words, even your best work can go unseen.

After two decades in the global design industry, I’ve seen how deeply our spaces shape us—and how often designers struggle to articulate the value of what they do.

That’s why I’ve partnered with the Designer Society of America to offer something more than just advice—a monthly column with one powerful idea at a time. Designed to sharpen your message and elevate your voice. Thoughtful. Actionable. Rooted in real design practice.

Because the right marketing message doesn’t just describe what you do—it defines what you’re here to change.

Your work already speaks volumes. Let’s make sure your message does too. 

Subscribe to my monthly DSA column here!

Design is powerful. But without the right words, even your best work can go unseen.

After two decades in the global design industry, I’ve seen how deeply our spaces shape us—and how often designers struggle to articulate the value of what they do.

That’s why I’ve partnered with the Designer Society of America to offer something more than just advice—a monthly column with one powerful idea at a time. Designed to sharpen your message and elevate your voice. Thoughtful. Actionable. Rooted in real design practice.

Because the right marketing message doesn’t just describe what you do—it defines what you’re here to change.

Your work already speaks volumes. Let’s make sure your message does too. 

Subscribe to my monthly DSA column here!

Instagram shouldn’t be your entire marketing plan—but it’s certainly one powerful part of it.

I'm excited to continue my year-long educational series with Business of Home this month with a workshop tailor-made to help designers understand where Instagram fits into their holistic marketing program—and how to employ the platform to express what makes their business unique, resonant, and highly referable.

Our Work-it-Out Wednesday Workshop this May is about something you might not think of as directly connected to your marketing, but it TOTALLY is...pricing.

How you price your services matters—and having the confidence to ask for what you're worth can make a HUGE difference in how you're showing up across all your marketing channels.

My favorite Canadian and no-BS coach Claire Jefford joins us this month to show you how to confidently ask for what you're worth.

Even if you're not an interior designer, Claire's straightforward style and practical advice will help you rethink your pricing strategy no matter what you're selling.

Want the recording? Get it and access to our monthly workshops, quarterly office hours, and much much more with your Marketing School for Creatives membership.

Crafting Spaces with Color, Heritage, and Contemporary Design

A conversation to unpack the power of color and design through the lens of Sherwin Williams' Color of the Year with expert designers Elizabeth Scruggs and Alexandre Fleuren, and color expert Natalie Miller.

Moderated by Ericka Saurit

The Language of Luxury: How to craft a story-driven marketing approach that attracts high-end clients

Luxury design is more than aesthetics—it’s about crafting a narrative that resonates with the aspirations of high-end clients. In this presentation, learn how to position your business as the go-to choice for discerning clientele by mastering the language of luxury while exploring the subtle signals that convey exclusivity, from persuasive messaging and brand positioning to cohesive visual storytelling. Through compelling case studies, proven strategies, and actionable insights, you’ll gain the tools to transform your brand into an irresistible magnet for perfect-fit clients, setting you apart in the competitive world of luxury interiors.

Presented by Ericka Saurit

Marketing Your Design Business in the Age of Algorithms 

Whether you are looking to grow your brand, gain industry recognition, or attract clients, discover how to build "true fan" relationships and market your way to industry acclaim on your own or with an expert team. 

Panelists: Ericka Saurit, Jennifer Smiga, Tina Ramchandani, Rasheeda Gray

Moderator: Alyssa Zimerman

Get the YES and strengthen your design practice with neuroaesthetics

The interior design industry has been recently introduced to a science called neuroaesthetics. This discipline of measuring how the mind and nervous system respond to one's environment and art will become mainstream on a global scale in the way people think about their spaces. In this panel, you will learn the connections that humans have to beauty and what makes someone think, feel, and act a certain way in a room. You’ll gain vocabulary and knowledge to elevate communication with clients to get the yes, what brands support neuroaesthetic and biophilic design, and how to increase profitability in your business using key neuroaesthetic principles.

Panelists: Eryn Oruncak, Jennifer Farrell

Moderator: Ericka Saurit

From Interiors to Empire: Scaling your business beyond design

Interior design is just the beginning…you’ve mastered interiors, now what’s next? Many designers are evolving their careers to become editors, educators, coaches, brand strategists, and product developers. If you’ve been sitting on a business idea (or two!) don’t miss this chance to hear from designers who’ve successfully pivoted, diversified, or expanded—without leaving their design roots behind. Whether you’re eager to explore new ventures or future-proof your career, this panel offers inspiration and a roadmap for your next big move.

Bring your questions for the panelists and stick around after for Pivot & Pour—our networking happy hour. Kick off your spring HPMKT adventure with us at Unique Loom!

Featuring:

• Marisa Wilson | The Cool Girl's Guide to HPMKT

• Ericka Saurit | Saurit Creative + Marketing School for Creatives

• Kate Bendewald | Designer’s Oasis

• Jana Platina Phipps | The Trim Queen

From Interiors to Empire: Scaling your business beyond design

Interior design is just the beginning…you’ve mastered interiors, now what’s next? Many designers are evolving their careers to become editors, educators, coaches, brand strategists, and product developers. If you’ve been sitting on a business idea (or two!) don’t miss this chance to hear from designers who’ve successfully pivoted, diversified, or expanded—without leaving their design roots behind. Whether you’re eager to explore new ventures or future-proof your career, this panel offers inspiration and a roadmap for your next big move.

Bring your questions for the panelists and stick around after for Pivot & Pour—our networking happy hour. Kick off your spring HPMKT adventure with us at Unique Loom!

Featuring:

• Marisa Wilson | The Cool Girl's Guide to HPMKT

• Ericka Saurit | Saurit Creative + Marketing School for Creatives

• Kate Bendewald | Designer’s Oasis

• Jana Platina Phipps | The Trim Queen

From Interiors to Empire: Scaling your business beyond design

Interior design is just the beginning…you’ve mastered interiors, now what’s next? Many designers are evolving their careers to become editors, educators, coaches, brand strategists, and product developers. If you’ve been sitting on a business idea (or two!) don’t miss this chance to hear from designers who’ve successfully pivoted, diversified, or expanded—without leaving their design roots behind. Whether you’re eager to explore new ventures or future-proof your career, this panel offers inspiration and a roadmap for your next big move.

Bring your questions for the panelists and stick around after for Pivot & Pour—our networking happy hour. Kick off your spring HPMKT adventure with us at Unique Loom!

Featuring:

• Marisa Wilson | The Cool Girl's Guide to HPMKT

• Ericka Saurit | Saurit Creative + Marketing School for Creatives

• Kate Bendewald | Designer’s Oasis

• Jana Platina Phipps | The Trim Queen