There’s an adage: find a void and fill it. And Brooks Morrison has done precisely that. While working for Moore & Giles, the Virginia native realized that many boutique textile makers were being overlooked. With her knack for marketing and merchandising, she launched The Design Social Pop-Up in 2019, which allows interior designers to connect with makers behind boutique brands. And despite the pandemic causing her to hit pause, she has turned the gatherings into some of the industry’s most anticipated events. Here, she shares insights about the concept.
Smart thinking: The old way for small businesses to get their products out there was by going door to door, but that isn’t time efficient. I thought, ‘how can I create a model that supports every brand and every sales strategy?’ By establishing a collective and holding events in relevant, inspiring places, it also became fun. It was that simple.
Location, location: In the beginning, I looked at tertiary communities with growing interior design practices that didn’t have immediate access to design centers. We now have a footprint across the country, but I still look for evolving markets.
Why it works: This idea isn’t unique, but it used to be done by company reps, not the creatives themselves. For small businesses, personal connections are invaluable.
New this year: Along with events in Palm Beach, Denver, East Hampton, Darien, Connecticut, and Charlotte, we’ll be building on educational and mentorship opportunities.
Happiest moment: When I hear participants say, ‘You’ve moved the needle for me.’ Sharing their work is a privilege.
