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Manhattan Chapter

PRESIDENT'S COLUMN

2 days ago
jamie-keel

What is so rare as a day in June?

June arrives like a breath of fresh air, especially after a very wet and cold May. Soft, golden, and full of promise so perfectly phrased in, “What is so rare as a day in June?” — from The Vision of Sir Launfal by James Russell Lowell. These cherished days mark the threshold of summer in the Northeast, a season that always seems to pass too quickly. The secret is to be ready! So, make the most of every moment, every gathering, every spark of inspiration. And remember to celebrate it with our community at NKBA Manhattan-NYC events, excursions, and learning experiences.

June Journeys: Celebrating Design, Community, and the Start of Summer

We’re kicking off the month with something truly special: a luxury bus trip on June 12th to the strikingly modern Sub-Zero Showroom in Roslyn, for a “Summer Celebration.” A luxury bus experience is being made possible by the imagination and generosity of our sponsor, Clerestory. Then, on June 24th, the A&D Building comes alive for Market Day, an exciting festivity of design, where several of our sponsors will be hosting events throughout the building, including the beautiful Hastings Bath Collection showroom.

June holds a special place in my heart. It’s my birth month, the time when the school year concludes, pools opens, and excursions to the “shore” hold promise. It’s a month woven with memories, both personal and professional. That same spirit of warmth, community, and meaningful connection is what we strive to foster at NKBA Manhattan-NYC.

Looking just beyond June, the NY Design Coalition, a collaborative partnership with the NY chapters of IFDA, ASID, DLF, IDS, and NKBA-NYC, is preparing a spectacular Summer Social for July – “City Lights, City Nights.” This year’s gathering will take place (for members only) at the luminous Acuity Brands Inspiration Gallery at Penn Plaza, a fitting setting for this vibrant tradition.

As always, we look to the future with purpose. Self-nominations for our 2026 Board are closing soon for the roles of President, Programs, and Communications Chairs. The results will be announced at our Annual Board Dinner in August. And yes, mark your calendars—Education Day 2025 commemorates Kitchen & Bath Month in October, our chapter’s 25th anniversary year. Plans are already underway to gather and celebrate our community once again with fun, learning (CEU) experiences, Keynote Luncheon, and cocktail reception at the A&D Building. Contact Jeannine Price if you would like to help plan thi event or volunteer for the day. 

A Month of Connection: Celebrating Design, Dialogue, and Distinction

The May chapter event recap celebrates the outstanding turnout at the Hafele showroom, where Kelly Inglis presented her engaging CEU, "Think Inside the Box," an insightful look at the intersection of lighting and cabinetry. As always, Hafele proved to be an exceptional host. Like any close-knit family, we found ourselves naturally gathered around the food, laughing, learning, and connecting. Hafele’s generosity and gracious hospitality set the perfect tone for an inspiring evening.

We’re also proud to share highlights from our chapter’s ICFF Awards, sponsored by Aspire Design & Home Magazine. Our Membership Chair, Diana Mosher, offers a fantastic overview of the honorees. Several of our chapter members shared their impressions of the iconic ICFF design trade fair, which was held last month at the Javits Center in NYC and many of the other design events, held across the city, all part of the NYCxDesign Festival. Their insights bring the energy of ICFF directly to our community—thank you to all who participated!

This month’s spotlight shines on Michelle Shen, our new newsletter editor, whose talent and dedication have already made a meaningful impact. Michelle has streamlined production and brought a fresh perspective to our communications. Welcome aboard! We're also thrilled to welcome three new Gold Sponsors: Summit Appliance, Houzz Pro, and CIOT NY.  Our growing roster of new members is also listed. Be neighborly and reach out to them. Your presence enriches our chapter, and we’re delighted to have you with us.

And speaking of fresh ideas, don’t miss our newest column, From the Field. This is your space to share firsthand experiences from industry events, conferences, vendors, and showrooms. Whether you attended a panel discussion, discovered a product launch, or simply had a meaningful design encounter, we want to hear from you. Please remember to send your POV & pictures to <communications@nkbamanhattan.org>. Your stories inspire and connect us all. And if you're going to maintain your certification, the ‘Check This Out’ column each month gives you a list of all the NKBA Certified CEUs.

Step In, Stand Out: Make the Most of Your Membership Through Volunteering

As we move through this vibrant season, I encourage you to get more involved with our chapter! There’s no better way to feel connected than by volunteering. Whether it’s helping at an event, joining a committee, or contributing your voice to our newsletter, volunteering gives you a genuine stake in our community. It transforms your membership into something even more rewarding, opening doors, strengthening professional ties, and supporting your personal and business growth in ways that are both meaningful and lasting. Contact any of the subcommittee chairs and find a place on their committee.

Here’s to soaking in every rare and beautiful day this June has to offer—and to all the exciting moments still ahead. Wishing you a joyful June, and may it be as rare and beautiful as Lowell promises.

Warmly, 

Charlé-John

President, NKBA-NYC Chapter

charle@cjcstrategists.com