You may have read about NeoCon in my previous post, but this year I not only plan on attending the exhibition, but I will also actually be IN it!  I will be participating in a panel at the Atelier Lapchi showroom, one of my favorite showrooms at the Mart. (And for those of you who haven’t been to the Merchandise Mart, it’s ENORMOUS and filled to the brim with beautiful design options for both home and office!) Lapchi has the most incredible selection of hand-woven, custom carpets that I frequently use in the homes of my clients.  The event is co-hosted by Interiors Magazine and the panel will be moderated by James Barra the Creative Director of Interiors.

The panel discussion, which features two other noted and frequently published Chicago designers, is titled, “Views from the Top: How Designers Can Use the Media to Build Their Brand.”  I felt very honored to be selected to be a part of this event and will surely be giving a shout out to my fabulous readers at Material Girls!  I will also be discussing the importance of a well-designed, up-to-date website, how to establish and to communicate your brand, how to  get published,  and how to best utilize database resources (such as the Merchandise Mart’s Designer Portfolios) to reach out to potential clients.  The panel will then be followed by a Q&A.  I’d love to see some Material Girls in the audience!

Do any of you designer’s out there have any questions about how you can best reach potential new clients?  Love the idea of being published but just cannot break into the scene?   This panel discussion is for you.  Or, share your thoughts or questions here!

The event is open to the public, so stop by if you’re at NeoCon!

Tuesday, June 16 10:00 am, Atelier Lapchi, Merchandise Mart Suite 6-160, Chicago.  Champagne reception to follow!