Cindy Aplanalp.... By Design Interiors

High Point Market isn't just about wandering around and and looking at beautiful things....its also an incredible learning experience.  We learn about the manufacturing, skill and materials that go into creating furniture, art, lighting and accessories.  And we also learn about the design industry- how its changing, evolving, becoming more accessible and how the internet is really making some changes in the field.

During High Point Market, my two assistants and I attended a luncheon hosted by the ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) about the internet and social media in the design field and how to get work published.  The luncheon highlighted several well-known professionals, all from different aspects in the design industry who all gave incredible advice and insight during a panel discussion. 

Crystal Gentilello is the editor-in-chief of a new online design magazine, Rue Magazine.  Starting an online magazine, Crystal combines the two forms of media- paper and internet.  She discussed the changes occurring in the design field when it comes to advertising, marketing and getting work published.

Brad Ford is an interior designer who is known for his blog, Design Therapy.  A huge advocate of Facebook and Twitter, Brad emphasized the importance of using social media outlets to expand your business and promote your brand.

Deborah Sanders is a contributing editor for Veranda Magazine and is about to launch her own style guide. Deborah was able to talk about more traditional methods to getting work published and well known with design magazines.  The incredible combination of speakers really helped show that there is no single way to get your name and brand out there- there's a myriad of different styles and combinations of methods used to get yourself out there.