2012 Seminar Descriptions

VISION12 Seminar Descriptions

Monday, April 23, 2012
DBRx Consultations: Deb Barrett & Susan Schultz 1WFCP Design Credit and .1CEU  DBRx1 – 1:00-2:30 DBRx2 – 2:45-4:15 DBRx3 – 4:30-6:00 A business-life-shifting strategy session focused on you and your work in the world. Here’s your chance to access more than 30 years of design, marketing and industry experience, all focused specifically on YOUR business. Sign up now for a 1-1/2-hour Design Business Rx session with Deb & Susan, each strictly limited to 10 people per session.	You’ll be required to do pre-show and post-show “homework” and depending on your needs and issues, there will be post-show follow up from Deb & Susan. We’ll talk to you about your responses to the DBRx pre-session questionnaire, analyzing your plans, identifying new opportunities, providing support in areas of particular concern and brainstorming with you on next steps and new ideas. We’ll focus on things that you’re passionate about and that can make you money. Plus, we’ll help you map out a plan to get started and to keep the momentum going. The conversation lasts 1-1/2 hours and you’ll leave with meaningful moneymaking ideas, clear priorities, renewed energy and interest in your business, along with useful connections and resources. If your top of mind issue is pricing this consultation is for you! Deb and Susan will be offering a highly specific workshop on what is always a HOT topic- Pricing. Members/ Non-Member: $125.00
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
1VP1 8:00−9:00 – Build Website Traffic as Easy as 1-2-3- Tami Coalwell, President, IEdit Web Inc. CANCELLED due to medical emergency	1 AA –8:30-9:45 Opening Keynote Kick-Off: Candice Olson A Before and After Look at the Design Process HGTV Design Star judge, Candice Olson, also of HGTV’s Divine Design and host of HGTV's Candice Tells All is coming to KBIS 2012. As Keynote presenter, Olson will talk about the importance of creating a personal brand. She has taken her signature style - one she describes as "a fusion of traditional form, scale and proportions, with the clean, crisp, simplistic beauty of modern design" and incorporated it into The Candice Olson Collection - a successful brand of home décor products, launched in 2005. It includes upholstered furniture, fabrics, wallpaper, lighting, bedding and more. She will share with attendees her own design philosophy and how she made her way from designer-in-the-field to on-camera design consultant. She has been featured on the Today show, Live! With Regis and Kelly, The View and The Oprah Winfrey Show, and she's coming to McCormick Place in Chicago for KBIS 2012. 1WFCP Design Credit and .1CEU Members/ Non-Member: $50.00
1B 9:15−10:30 One Day Decorating and the Power of Placement JoAnne Lenart-Weary, Director of the Decorating & Staging Academy & Joanne Lenart-Weary Interiors In today’s world of instant gratification, nothing transforms a room more quickly than the power of placement. The process impacts the space from the floor up when functionality and aesthetics walk hand in hand. Learn 12 simple rules that will work each and every time. Identify the five major room shapes, ceiling lines and how placement can lead to other opportunities to make money with art, lighting, window treatments and more. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	1C 9:15−10:30 Color Trends for the Home: What’s Now? What’s Next? Kate Smith, Chief Color Maven & President, Sensational Color People always want to know, "What colors are on trend?" Rarely do they wonder, "Why these colors and why now?" The answers to those questions, however, are the ones that that gives you a competitive advantage as a designer, decorator or window fashion consultant.* In this session, Kate Smith will explain the color forecasting process; uncover the trends influencing hottest colors and explain why these colors are important at this time. 1WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
1D 9:15−10:30 Showcasing Your Work: Portfolios & Hand Samples Jill Ragan Scully, Impressive Windows & Interiors, WFCP Master Gain confidence in yourself and the beautiful work that you do! Attendees will learn how to effectively showcase their work in a fantastic portfolio, collectively housing their talent. Pair this useful tool along with beautifully crafted hand samples to impress and attract retail and wholesale customers. Attendees will learn the importance of and the how to for effective portfolios and hand samples. A complete hand sample and portfolio collection will be shown throughout the class. 1 WFCP Business Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	1E 9:15−10:30  The Style Sourcebook Deb Barrett, WFCP Expert, Principal of Window Dressings, Co-founder DBRx Today’s interiors are a result of a diverse mix of culture and time. Emulating those styles drawn from other parts of the globe can transform a room and transport your client to a different world. This seminar is a discussion of those global styles as we explore the elements that make it up. Gain an understanding of appropriate furnishings, textiles and colors while gaining insight on how to (re)create that look in your client’s homes. We’ll discuss Modern English and French Country, Lodge living, Russian, Scandinavian and more. We will discuss color, fabrics, furniture, walls and floors, design details and the hallmarks of each period through PowerPoint and actual samples. You’ll go home with a sourcebook to show your style smarts. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
1FF 9:30-12:15  SUPER SESSION: Ripplefold: Commercial Drapery Style is Making a Comeback!  Ann Johnson, Owner Sew Easy Windows, CHF Academy Instructor This commercial drapery style is making a comeback in today's world of clean, contemporary lines. This class explains the hardware, the simple concept behind fullness choices and several fabrication techniques. As a full-service workroom, you definitely want to explore the ripplefold look and add it to your product line. You will be amazed at how easy and simple the treatment is to specify, fabricate and mount. Add ripplefold to your portfolio today.  3 WFCP Workroom Credits and .245 CEU  Member $120/Non-Member $165	1G 11:00 -12:15 Mixing Fabric Pattern for Design Impact JoAnne Lenart-Weary, Director of The Decorating & Staging Academy & Joanne Lenart-Weary Interiors Are you paralyzed when it comes to mixing patterns? Are you still stuck in the only three-per-room rule? Do you only take the safe way and use the mix determined by the fabric company? The style of a room is largely determined by the story that textiles and their motifs tell about the space. Learn 10 simple guidelines that will have you mixing and matching fabrics in a fresh new way. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
1H 11:00-12:15 A Look at the Near Future: Color and Design Trends for 2013  Susan Schultz, Editor Vision magazine, Principal of Space Downtown New product designs, palettes, patterns, fabrics and more, as seen at the industry’s top design shows. This session will cover the highlights from Maison&Objet, MoOD, London Design Week, Heimtexil, Milan and more. You'll see 2013 trend themes from major forecasting houses, straight from the factory product samples and cutting-edge prototypes. Take a look at what’s next for the interior design industry. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	1J 11:00-12:15 Slipcover Skirts & Closures Jeanelle Dech, Director/CEO CHF Academy, Founder Adaptive Textiles Banded skirts that hang beautifully, decorative braid cord sewn in without puckering; button closures and ties are only the beginning. Join veteran slipcover instructor Jeanelle Dech as she demonstrates the step-by-step construction of classic and innovative slipcover skirt styles, detailed closures and embellishments. You will be amazed that these techniques don’t take more time and you will be inspired to use these methods for valance fabrication too! Sources for special tools, adhesives, foam, fabric and lining will also be shared. 1 WFCP Workroom Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
1K 11:00-12:15 Social Media: Branding Your Expertise, Vision and Voice Through Social Media Linda Merrill, Linda Merrill Decorative Surroundings Social media is all around us and is here to stay. Suddenly, industry professionals with years of design and business experience are falling behind smart phone wielding young guns with narrow resumes but broad virtual appeal. As the saying goes, “If you’re not online, you don’t exist.” Learn how the tools of social media can help you promote your expertise by creating your brand, establishing your voice and making all-important industry contacts. 1 WFCP Business Credits and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	1L 11:00-12:15 Workroom 1-2-3: One Shade, Two Pillows and Three Drapery Styles Susan Woodcock, Brand Experience Manager, Rowley Company Workroom professionals are challenged to create new designs every day - draperies, shades, pillows and more. This class is a reflection of the style variety a typical workroom faces daily, and illustrates the creativity needed to switch gears from one project to another. In this class you will learn step-by-step techniques for creating one current shade style, two pillow creations and three trend-setting drapery designs. Topics include pre planning, pattern drafting and construction methods, and design ideas, with detailed step-by-step instructions included. 1 WFCP Workroom Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
1M 11:00-12:15 Secrets to the Bespoke Window Deb Barrett, WFCP Expert, Principal of Window Dressings, Co-founder DBRx Made to Order window treatments are a complex business from design details to specifying and selling- learn the tricks of the trade- from design, fabricating and installing to presenting them to your clients. An in depth examination that will offer you the tips and the secrets that the pros know. You'll gain a wealth of couture knowledge from a mix of hands-on samples and images as we detail the steps necessary to create some of these looks. Enrich your portfolio with solutions, options and details to offer your clients a truly custom crafted window fashion 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	1N 12:30−3:00 Workroom Certification Pre-Testing Mary Ann Plumlee, Founder Workroom Association of America The Workroom Certification available thru WFCP/WAOA is customized especially for you. A personal evaluation of you and your business starts you on the road to certification. You’ll receive valuable feedback that will help you become the best you can be while meeting all of the requirements for certification. This program takes into consideration your real world experience, prior training and skills that you already possess. Take only the courses and training that you really need to complete certification. Find out how you compare to others in your industry. Learn your strengths and your weaknesses and how to build your very best workroom business. Attendees will need to bring their portfolio along with the layout of their workroom and other information about their business in order to begin evaluation. There will be a written test to assess skill level and knowledge. Expect a personalized evaluation that will help you for years to come and will put you on track to achieve certification. Member $150/Non-Member $150
1DBRx 12:30-2:00 DBRx Consultations: Deb Barrett & Susan Schultz A business-life-shifting strategy session focused on you and your work in the world. Here’s your chance to access more than 30 years of design, marketing and industry experience, all focused specifically on YOUR business. Sign up now for a 1-1/2-hour Design Business Rx session with Deb & Susan, each strictly limited to 10 people per session. You’ll be required to do pre-show and post-show “homework” and depending on your needs and issues, there will be post-show follow up from Deb & Susan. We’ll talk to you about your responses to the DBRx pre-session questionnaire, analyzing your plans, identifying new opportunities, providing support in areas of particular concern and brainstorming with you on next steps and new ideas. We’ll focus on things that you’re passionate about and that can make you money. Plus, we’ll help you map out a plan to get started and to keep the momentum going. The conversation lasts 1-1/2 hours and you’ll leave with meaningful moneymaking ideas, clear priorities, renewed energy and interest in your business, along with useful connections and resources. If you top of mind issue is pricing this consultation is for you! Deb and Susan will be offering a highly specific workshop on what is always a HOT topic- Pricing. 1WFCP Design Credit and .1CEU  Members/ Non-Member: $125.00	1P 4:00-5:15 Where Did Hue Go Wrong? How to Avoid Mistakes and Get Color Right Every time! Kate Smith, Chief Color Maven & President, Sensational Color Have you ever been frustrated because a color you thought was going to be perfect didn't work out as well as you had anticipated? Has a color dilemma made you think that you lack of creativity or skill? Are you more comfortable sticking to the safe color schemes rather than trying a new combination? If so, then you don't want to miss this workshop where in 75 minutes Kate Smith will give you a crash course in getting color right every time. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
1Q 4:00-5:15 Avant Inspiration Deb Barrett, WFCP Expert, Principal of Window Dressings, Co-founder DBRx Today’s window fashions are still rooted in 17th-century inspirations. Let’s move the bespoke window out of the past and into the future. This multimedia showcase will push the envelope with out-of-the-box designs and avant-garde sampling that engages the senses and examines window fashions from unique perspectives that will drive your designs into the 21st century. Experience inspired techniques, state-of-the-art processes and creative stylings. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	1R 4:00-5:15 Discovering Your Value Jeanelle Dech, Director/CEO CHF Academy, Founder Adaptive Textiles When something comes easily to us, we tend to discount its worth. Often we give our services away for free or below market value. In this seminar, you will learn to determine if you are an ‘under earner.’ You will then learn techniques to identify self-sabotage that keeps you trapped in a spiral of devaluing yourself and your products or services. Leave this session feeling empowered with an understanding of the value you bring to your work and your customer. 1 WFCP Business Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
1S 4:00-5:15 Teamwork: The Importance of Creating a Team Environment Across Disciplines Linda Merrill, Linda Merrill Decorative Surroundings Design projects are truly multi-disciplinary endeavors. Starting with the client, there may be architects, builders, designers, specifiers, vendors, trades people and more. All have their own areas of expertise, and their own egos. However, there is true value for all involved when the entire team works together and understands each other’s needs. This course includes tips for promoting a team environment, establishing lines of communication and creating value for all participants. 1 WFCP Business Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	1T 4:00-5:15 Designing with Grommets: The Latest Hot Detail Cathy Tucker, Owner Tucks N’ Pleats Draperies, CHF Academy Instructor Grommets are not just for panels!!! Join Cathy Tucker as she demonstrates creative uses for functional and decorative grommets. In this class students will learn how to construct a basic grommet panel, calculate ideal spacing and determine grommet size for different types and sizes of poles. In addition, Cathy shares sample after sample of grommet varieties and creative applications. 1 WFCP Workroom/Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
1W 5:15−7:00 2012 Awards Ceremony Window Fashion Envision Design Ingenuity Workroom Competition Join other industry professionals in applauding the winners as they reveal the Big Ideas behind their winning creations. Window Fashion VISION presents the premier industry competition: the Envision Design Competition and Ingenuity Workroom Competition! FREE event, cash bar available. The Award Ceremony is sponsored by Hunter Douglas and will take place in the Convention Center. Custom Home Furnishing Academy will be presenting CHFA Alumni Showcase Awards FREE
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
2VP1 8:00−9:00 Future of the Industry Panel How long will slow growth continue? What do we see with the Internet? Does social networking really work? How do successful business owners adapt to the New Era? What is coming in new marketing on the Internet? Does any of old marketing work – newspaper, yellow pages, direct mail? Are there new product trends that will excite customers? Will 2012 be a turnaround year or more of the same dismal growth we saw in 2011? Attend this session at no cost, sponsored by Vision Magazine and Exciting Windows! Discover what industry leaders have to say about where we will be in the next five years. This is the opening session of the Business Success Workshop series. Panel Leaders: Panelists: Roger Gober, Jeff Falcon, Steve Roellchen, David Haseley, Gordon Clements, Rebecca Creal Moderators Grace McNamara, CEO, McNamara Publishing The Big Picture: How distribution channels are changing, product innovations, how independent decorators and retailers will compete in the new era Steven Bursten, Exciting Windows! Who’s winning in the New Era? Dozens of independent business owners are growing and setting records in spite of the economy. Yet, many business owners are struggling for survival. What sets winners apart from those who fail? You’ll find out when you attend this session. FREE	2BW 9:30-4:30 BUSINESS SUCCESS WORKSHOP Full Series Benefit by attending a full day of special “insider” information from top national leaders. Be inspired by retailers who are building successful, profitable businesses from $200,000 to over $1,000,000 annual sales. They will share confidential information you cannot get elsewhere. This is the second year that IWCE will bring you the information you need to grow and succeed to levels you might never have dreamed. If you truly want to improve your business success, attend every session. This package includes all four sessions: CEO Roundtable, Million Dollar Leader’s Panel, Moving to the Next Level and Driving Appointments  3 WFCP Business Credits All Attendees $149
2BW1 9:30-10:30 CEO Roundtable CEO Leaders: Cherie Roellchen, Carl Movrich, John Danaher, Bruce Bernstein CEO’s of small and large retail store businesses exchange “how-to’s” of growing and managing. When should you move to a retail store location? What is the staffing you need? How do you find good employees? When should you hire a salesperson or decorator? How to compensate them? Should decorators get their own leads or should the business provide them? How much to spend on advertising, and what works? What does not work and is a waste of money? How much sales are needed to reach break-even in a store? What kind of location is best – high traffic or industrial court? These and other questions will be exchanged by the panel. There will be time to ask your own questions and receive answers you need. Moderators Steve Wishnow – Co-owner Exciting Windows! leading expert on window coverings marketing and advertising 1 WFCP Business Credit All Attendees $50	2BW2 11:00 – 12:30 Million Dollar Leader’s Panel What does it take to build a Million dollar business? If you have one – or want to have one – don’t miss this panel of experts who will share their experiences about how they did it. Building a million dollar business is not easy. It takes desire, drive, and willingness to risk, certainty of setback, and costly mistakes to move up. Yet, it also takes winning decisions and successful strategies to grow. Learn critical essentials to climb the ladder of success. Can a woman do it? Most million dollar business owners are men. Be inspired by women panelists that prove a woman can do it. Moderator: Bruce Heyman Panelists: Joyce Holt, Matt Cookson, Jane Shea, Rich Baker, Mimi Harling 1 WFCP Business Credit All Attendees $75
2BW3 1:30-2:30 Moving Up to the Next Level Moving up to $300,000 – the optimum profit for a home based business If your sales are $10,000 to $200,000 yearly, this is the perfect session for you. Discover how others grew their business from home while raising children and caring for family Moderator: Kathy Cragg Panelists: Margaret DeGange, Jan Bromberek, Susan Day, Kim Lyon $300,000 moving up to $1 Million If your sales are $300,000 to $600,000 yearly, learn what it takes to build your business to the next level. Learn the staffing you need. Learn: should you stay at home or take a business location? What works, what doesn’t? How do you avoid costly mistakes? Moderator: Steve Bursten Panelists: Scot Dietz, Mike Lin, Kelly Conklin, Susette Kubiak, Gary Falcon 1 WFCP Business Credit All Attendees $50	2BW4 3:00-4:00 Driving Appointments What are the best low cost marketing ideas? How do you optimize results for a larger budget? Ideal for business sales from $50,000 to $750,000 and more Presenter: Steve Wishnow Possible examples of driving appointments: Mike Lin, Susan Day, Wilma Kulyk, Shem Isaacs  In a slow growth economy, every business needs more appointments. What are leaders doing? What works? What doesn’t? There are two main ways to create appointments: Time and Money. Learn how to balance both for your business, based on your sales volume. You can expect to learn Newspaper, Yellow Pages and magazines don’t work anymore. Find out what does. Discover the three most important marketing techniques that work for building lead flow. How much should you spend on advertising for your size business? Where you can get money to advertise. What you should expect regarding CPL (cost per lead) and CPS (cost per sale). Everybody talks about past customer marketing. Does it really work? Learn how to do it right! 1 WFCP Business Credit All Attendees $50
2AA 7:30-9:00 Keynote Presentation: The Window Erik Bruce Window treatments are an all too often overlooked opportunity for design in modern interiors. Noted window treatment designer Erik Bruce presents a glimpse into his process; a fresh new approach to treating windows and dividing spaces in harmony with the architecture. Having served as the principal designer at Mary Bright Inc. for the past eight years, Erik is now creative director of his own studio. He continues to develop new inventive solutions for unique spaces, working closely with the architect and/or interior designer of every project. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	2B 9:15−10:30 Soft Home Style File Deb Barrett, WFCP Expert, Principal of Window Dressings, Co-founder DBRx Deb will lead a discussion of the design directions that will influence soft furnishings in 2012 and beyond. Looking at key macro trends, she will explore what’s new and next with a primary focus on bedding, pillows and soft accessories. This seminar outlines the essential colors, moods, materials, shapes and styling’s that that can increase your bottom line and expand your client base beyond window treatments. We even will share some secrets that can be creative opportunities for you. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
2C 9:15−10:30 Terrific Solutions to Terrible Situations: Designs & Resources for Difficult Windows Susan Kostelecky, SK Designs & Custom Sewing Institute Angles and bows and bays oh my! Don’t be intimidated by non-standard window configurations such as bays, bows, arches, two story windows, offset and unusual window combinations or windows with obstructions or limited mounting space. This class will showcase dozens of completed treatments and resolutions with a variety of solutions, including designs, sources and tools to help you successfully design, create and install beautiful treatments despite these challenges. Before and after photos will be included to help define the problems and their solutions. Stock and custom hardware sources and products will be shown as well as tools and their sources to help measure accurately and easily to ensure a perfect installation and a happy client. This PowerPoint presentation class will provide an arsenal of creativity and sources for any tricky windows in your future. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	2D 9:15−10:30 Eliminate Marketing Overwhelm: Understand New Marketing Tools and How to Use Them Nicole Shields, Founder of Professional Marketing Matters Your ads aren’t working like they used to but what can you do now? Do you really need a mobile website? Is direct mail a good way to gain clients? What the heck is a QR code? In this action packed seminar you’ll learn about all the new marketing tools out there, the Top 5 Marketing Tools you should be using, the ones to avoid and how to integrate them so they work synergistically. 1 WFCP Business Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
2EE 9:30-12:15 SUPER SESSION: Working with Leather & Vinyl Laurie Medford, Expert Services, Business Development Manager Rowley Company Working with leather and vinyl does not have to be intimidating. Join Laurie as she walks you through different grades of leather used in our industry, what tools are needed to work with leather, and industry tips on how to upholster with leather. Laurie will have steps by step photos of leather upholstery as well as hands-on samples of grades and tools. She will also walk you through the steps for prepping and upholstering your piece in vinyl as well as samples and tools. If you want to add leather and vinyl to your repertoire, this is a must-attend session. 3 WFCP Workroom Credit and .245 CEU  Member $120/Non-Member $165	2FF 9:30−12:15 SUPER SESSION: Conquering Difficult Fabrics Ann Johnson, Owner Sew Easy Windows, CHF Academy Instructor Join Ann K. Johnson as she shares a wealth of tips and techniques for handling difficult fabrics. Velvets crinkle sheers and casements, linen, upholstery weight, unruly polyesters, drop match and half drop repeats and much more. Integral to the class is how to assess the fabric’s characteristics in relation to the treatment it is chosen for and approach the cutting and fabrication to achieve efficient and quality results. The goal is to work with the fabric, not fight against it. All of the techniques can be applied to jobs throughout the workroom. If you have worked with a nightmare fabric in the past, bring a sample to share with the class. 3 WFCP Workroom Credit and .245 CEU Member $120/Non-Member $165
2G 11:00−12:15 Captivating Cornices and Astonishing Awnings Jill Ragan Scully, Impressive Windows & Interiors, WFCP Master You will learn through classroom instruction several different methods of designing and building a wide variety of cornices and awnings. From the simple straight-edged treatments to the spectacularly ornate pieces; your mind will go wild dreaming of the possibilities that you could create when working with these two classic window treatments. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	2H 11:00-12:15 The Custom Window Treatment Client: Who They Are & Where They’re Hiding Deb Barrett and Susan Schultz Based on exclusive research on the custom window treatment market conducted over the past 18 months, this session will highlight details of custom window treatment purchasing—by region, by product style and more. We'll also focus on what characteristics custom window treatment consumers have in common with other key target markets, illustrating where they overlap including the crucial factors that drive purchase decisions and the most effective marketing approaches that can open opportunities for you. 1 WFCP Business Credits and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
2J 11:00-12:15 Workroom Tips & Techniques Cathy Tucker, Owner Tucks N’ Pleats Draperies, CHF Academy Instructor Join industry veteran Cathy Tucker as she shares the "best of the CHF Academy." From organizing your workroom to looping off the thread at the blind hemmer, you will be inspired to make small changes that dramatically affect workroom efficiency. Each tip has been provided by a CHFA student or instructor. Don't forget your camera. This class is loaded with ‘Ah Ha’ moments! 1 WFCP Business Credits and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	2K 11:00−12:15 How to Use Free Web Tools to Dominate Your Local Market Nicole Shields, Founder of Professional Marketing Matters A non-tech session uncovers FREE resources to dominate your local market. Must-know strategies for designers and window covering businesses whether you have a website or not. Discover tools people are using to find you (or your competitors). If you’re not there, you’re losing business. Learn how to be top of the list for those actively searching for designers/window coverings in your area. 1 WFCP Business Credit and .1 CEU Member $40/Non-Member $55
2L 11:00−12:15 Going Green with Roller Shade Fabrics Bill Strickland, Phifer’s National Marketing Manager for Sun Control Products Roller shade fabrics continue to be the fastest-growing segment of the window treatment market, and marketing these products' "green" features has never been more important. Sun control fabrics offer multiple green benefits, including energy savings, protection of interiors from harmful UV rays, environmental certifications for fabric content and indoor air quality, recyclability and sustainability. This seminar will help sort through the many aspects of “green” and provide the necessary tools to become a green expert. 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	2M 12:30−3:00 Workroom Certification Pre-Testing Mary Ann Plumlee, Founder Workroom Association of America The Workroom Certification available thru WFCP/WAOA is customized especially for you. A personal evaluation of you and your business starts you on the road to certification. You’ll receive valuable feedback that will help you become the best you can be while meeting all of the requirements for certification. This program takes into consideration your real world experience, prior training, and skills that you already possess. Take only the courses and training that you really need to complete certification. Find out how you compare to others in your industry. Learn your strengths and your weaknesses and how to build your very best workroom business. Attendees will need to bring their portfolio, layout of their workroom, and other information about their business in order to begin evaluation. There will be a written test to assess skill level and knowledge. Expect a personalized evaluation that will help you for years to come, and put you on track to achieve certification. Member $150/Non-Member $150
2NN 2:30-5:15 Engineered Design: Ink-Jet Technology Brings Savings & Customization Jeanelle Dech, Director/CEO CHF Academy, Founder Adaptive Textiles Today’s ink-jet technology brings incredible time savings and customization to workrooms and designers. The possibilities are endless…from linen stripes printed to match a client's paint color to slipcover kits that take no more than thirty minutes to construct. Imagine designing a box-pleat valance, specifying the scale of a motif, the color and size of the contrast inverted pleats, and having both be printed alternately...motif, stripe, motif, stripe, motif, stripe, motif....for one-piece fabrication. You can now even create a private textile collection exclusively for your own small business. Join Adaptive Textiles(TM) founder, Jeanelle Dech, as she shares the most recent developments in textile printing. Learn how you can use readily available graphic design programs to create your own unique engineered designs. 3 WFCP Workroom Credit and .245 CEU Member $120/Non-Member $165	2P 4:00-5:15 Designer Panel Conversations on Design: The Power of the Creative Process Panelists: TBA Join Deb Barrett as she moderates a noted panel of design professionals about how the interior design creative process works from start to finish. The panelists will discuss how they get inspired and the various ways they approach and manage the design process to translate their vision into stunning spaces. The panel will let us in on a few trade secrets, some modern day design tactics and share the ups and downs of how they achieve the finished results. By walking through these individual design projects, we’ll examine how others work to help us better understand how we can work to be successful. Stay after for a meet and greet with the panelists and continue the conversation. Sponsored by TBD 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $0/Non-Member $35
2R 4:00-5:15 Sensational Custom Fabric Panels Gillian Wendel, Proprietor, Wendel Works In this comprehensive overview of pleated headings we will examine their construction and applications as well as ways in which they can be altered and embellished for creative custom looks. Panels are a popular design trend – be confident in your approach as well as your ability to offer unique interpretations that take your work several steps above the competition! Hands on samples and PowerPoint for lots of ideas! 1 WFCP Design Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	2S 4:00-5:15 Designing for Profit: Elements and Principles to More Clients and More Money! Kathy Cragg, Vice President, Exciting Windows In decorating, you learned to use the elements and principles of design as building blocks to create a work of art. Designing a flourishing window fashion business works the same way. When you know the basic principles and how to apply them, you can creatively balance the right mix of attracting customers, building sales, and having profit as a reward for your creative work. In this session you will learn How to find the right, high income customers that are still buying window fashions How to speak their language so they want to do business with you Why Website and email marketing are so critical today What to expect from Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and social networking How not to do design work for free, but only design after the customer agrees to buy How to set profitable pricing – and get your customers to want to pay your price How to save money with suppliers so you are competitive everyday How to get more sales from your installations and follow up You’ll leave this session able to identify the elements and principles of a well-designed business and put them to practical use every day. You will be empowered to create an environment where customers love you, ask for you again, and tell their friends how great you are. 1 WFCP Business Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
Thursday, April 26, 2012
3VP1 8:00−9:00 – WCMA Vision 12 Cord Safety FREE The current proposed ANSI Standard for Corded Window Covering Products is one of the most important issues in the window coverings industry today. The standard and all that surrounds it is complicated. To help shed some light, we will have a presentation by industry leaders to help demystify the standard and to provide an update on the status of the standard as it proceeds through the ANSI ballot process.	3WFCP 7:30-9:00  Style Spotting The Top Trends in Design & Window Treatments Tobi Fairley 2012 Design Trend Overview A new year means new trends are on the horizon. We’ll take a look at the latest in color, fabric and texture for 2012 and how these new trends relate specifically to window fashions. An informative PowerPoint presentation with specific examples will help to illustrate all you need to know about this year’s must-have looks. 1 WFCP Design Credits and .1 CEU Member $0/Non-Member $25
3A 9:15−10:30 The Digital Designer Deb Barrett, WFCP Expert, Principal of Window Dressings, Co-founder DBRx Social media and the web are transforming and redefining the design world. This is a road map to harnessing the power of the internet to build your brand and cultivate your online reputation. Join in the discussion about social platforms, blogs, online resources, apps, QR codes and more. Discover how to tap into the web to engage clients, generate buzz and leverage its influence to transcend the “old school” ways of doing business. Bring your mobile devices and tablets to share with and learn from others while exploring the benefits of the online world. 1 WFCP Business Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	3B 9:15−10:30 Quintessential Custom: High Style Designs & Embellishments Susan Kostelecky, SK Designs & Custom Sewing Institute In the same way that a bridal gown differs from an off-the-rack wedding dress, precise styling, embellishments and fit transform ho-hum window treatment designs to inspired levels. Using actual samples and PowerPoint images, Susan will showcase numerous styles to make your designs truly custom with innovative, unique designs and specialty components such as embroidery (i.e. translating fabric pattern elements into embroidery accents), beading, jewelry, headings, personalization and much more. Also included is how to utilize custom hardware to solve tricky design issues to results in a successful, decorative treatment. 1 WFCP Window Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
3C 9:15−10:30 How to Price Yourself: Profit from Interior Design Jobs and Get Paid What You Are Worth! Terri Taylor, President & Creative Director, Design Biz Blueprint, ASID, IIDA, IDS How To Price Yourself, Profit From Interior Design Jobs and Get Paid What You are Worth in Today’s Economy explores four ways interior designers can improve their businesses. First, by designers getting clear about their belief system around money and second, how branding can attract the client that they want. Part three explores how they express the value of the services that they provide and part four looks at new ways to find profits in design jobs. 1 WFCP Business Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	3DD 9:30−12:15 SUPER SESSION: Creating an Incredible Client Experience SESSION CANCELLED DUE TO MEDICAL EMERGENCY
3E 11:00-12:15 Embellishments: The Simple to Sublime Gillian Wendel, Proprietor, Wendel Works In this comprehensive overview of embellishments and ornamentation we will look at ways to increase the custom look of window treatments and bedding. Move beyond your trim and hardware catalogues and learn ways to make your work truly special. Understand how to embellish keeping in mind style, budget and proportion. Lots of ideas and hands on samples! 1 WFCP Design Credits and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50	3F 11:00−12:15 The 5 Money, Marketing and Mindset Strategies for a Great Design Business Terri Taylor, President & Creative Director, Design Biz Blueprint, ASID, IIDA, IDS The truth is, the most successful Designers aren’t amazing “design geniuses,” they are the Designers that are focused on and experts at marketing and understanding how the design business works. This CEU (0.1) approved inspirational presentation will show you the way to attract great clients, interesting creative jobs and how to substantially increase your business income right now. 1 WFCP Business Credit and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50
3G 11:00−12:15 Selecting the Right Window Covering: Sun Control, Performance & Features Bill Strickland, Phifer’s National Market Manager for Sun Control Products With the growing popularity of roller shade fabrics, understanding technical sun control performance features and the many alternatives within this segment can make all the difference in determining which fabric fits your customers' needs and in making the sale. Attendees will learn how to evaluate each product’s unique attributes, such as solar optical property values and product specifications, to select the best option for their customers' applications. 1 WFCP Design Credits and .1 CEU Member $35/Non-Member $50