The West Michigan chapter of the NKBA hosted a mini KBIS event at beautiful Venue Three 2 on 5/29. With over 18 vendors and a speaker panel to discuss trends, best tips, and trips for navigating the show, this event was perfect for seasoned designers or students exploring the industry. Although KBIS can be crowded and overwhelming, this event allowed attendees to chat one-on-one with each vendor, ranging from appliances to plumbing, paint, and lighting. Guests used their "passports" to collect vendor stamps and enter a raffle drawing for the grand prize of a gift basket featuring Grand Rapids goodies and a gift card to the Amway Grand Hotel downtown. With a wide range of vendors represented, it was a great way to dive more deeply into things designers may have seen at the show or get caught up for those who could not attend.

Andy Yates, educator and designer, moderated a panel discussion that reviewed how to make the most of your KBIS experience. The panel included Samantha Williams from Ferguson showrooms and Lindsey Kolenda of Knox J Design, both first-time attendees in 2024, as well as Becky Vandenbroek from Hyggee Custom Build and Ryan Morris, Director of Residential A&D, Cambria, both KBIS frequent fliers. The panel reflected on trends they saw at the show and fresh concepts they wanted to bring back to the Midwest. They also gave their favorite tips and tricks for showing survival. Wear comfortable shoes, pack snacks, PLAN AHEAD. It's a designer's Disneyland that can be just as overwhelming!

A special thanks to all the vendors and attendees for filling the ballroom, engaging with our panel, and making the most out of this event!

Blasius/Cambria: Educational Sponsor
Louisville Tile: Bar Sponsor

Plumbing:
JW Sales (Plumbing)
Kohler
House of Rohl
Clear Water Sales/Infinity Drain (Plumbing)
Infusion/Etna
Appliances:
Gerrit's Appliances
Fisher Paykel (Appliances)
Tulip
Cabinetry:
Direct Supply
KSI (Cabinetry)
Furniture and decor:
Design Phase (Decor/Cabinetry)Holland bar stool
Interior finishes:
Benjamin Moore (Paint)
Henderson Glass
Lighting:
Minka Group / Lisa Ashley (Lighting)
Handcrafted Lighting
Flooring/ tile:
ProSource
Platform Surfaces (Tile)
Featured non-profit partnership:
CASA of Kent County