Advanced Textiles Expo 2026

CAMPFIRE CHAT: What the Client Is Actually Buying: A Designer and a Workroom Owner on Luxury, Expectation, and the Partnership Behind the Result (Room Booth 2719-Sun Shading Expo Conference Area)

03 Nov 26
12:00 PM - 12:55 PM

Tracks: Sun Shading Expo North America (SSENA)

Luxury clients have different expectations, priorities, and definitions of value. In this fireside chat, Kate O'Hara, former leader of the nationally recognized O'Hara Interiors, and Julie Murphy, owner of Designer Draperies of Boston, share insights from decades of experience serving high-end clients and design professionals. Together, they explore how luxury varies across market segments, why service delivery is just as important as design quality, and how strong partnerships between designers, workrooms, installers, retailers, and manufacturers contribute to exceptional client experiences. Attendees will gain practical strategies for building trust, strengthening partnerships, and securing repeat business in the luxury market.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Understand how luxury client expectations differ across market segments.
  • Identify service gaps that can create friction, reduce trust, and impact referrals.
  • Learn what top designers look for when selecting and retaining vendors and workroom partners.
  • Discover communication and service approaches that resonate with high-end designers and clients.
  • Gain practical insights for growing your business by aligning your services with both designer and end-client expectations.