Read Time 7 minutes

Now let’s talk about Trends and why they matter to you!

Now Trending!!! 📣 

Trends are like waves—they come and go, so you must stay on top of them at all times.

I am not just talking about countertop trends but also colors, design, and decorating trends. 

Not only are you in the fabrication and construction industry, you are also in the design industry as well….  Design trends will impact your business!

How to Spot Trends

1. Follow the Design Leaders: Keep an eye on interior designers, influencers, and even leading paint companies. They often set the tone for what’s coming next. Follow them on social media and start compiling a list.

2. Get Out There: Attend industry events like TISE or KBIS. These are packed with the latest trends and offer invaluable networking opportunities with other industry professionals.

3. Listen to Your Customers: Ask your customers what they’re excited about and what they’ve seen in the market.  

Marketing to the Trends

Once you’ve identified the latest trends, the next step is to create buzz around them. Here’s how you can effectively market these trends and turn them into sales!

1. Social Media

Social media is the perfect platform to showcase trends in real time. Here’s how you can make the most of it:

Create Trend-Focused Content:

• Share eye-catching photos and videos highlighting how your stone countertops align with the latest design trends.

• Use platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook.

• Stories and Reels on Instagram can be particularly effective in showing these trends in action.

Engage your Audience

• Start conversations with your followers about the latest trends. Ask them to vote on their favorite looks with polls or share how they would use a specific stone in their home. 

Collaborate with Influencers

• Partner with interior designers or home renovation influencers who can feature your products in their trend-forward projects.

• Influencer collaborations not only expand your reach but also add credibility, as their followers look to them for design inspiration.

2. Email Campaigns

Email campaigns are another way to keep your audience informed about the latest trends and how they can incorporate them into their homes:

• Send Trend Alerts: Create dedicated emails that spotlight the latest trends in stone and design. Include high-quality images, expert tips, and links to your products that align with these trends. Make it easy for your subscribers to click through and learn more about what you offer.

• Personalized Recommendations: Use customer data to send personalized recommendations based on their preferences. If a subscriber is interested in a particular style or color, tailor your emails to feature those trends and related products.

3. Hosting Events

• Trend Showcase Events: Host in-store events where you showcase the latest design trends. Set up displays that pair your stone countertops with trending paint colors, cabinetry, and decor. Invite local designers to give talks or demonstrations, adding value to the experience and attracting more attendees.

• Workshops and Demos: Offer hands-on workshops where attendees can see how to incorporate trends into their own homes. This could be anything from a DIY kitchen makeover session to a seminar on choosing the right stone for trending design styles. These events position your brand as a knowledgeable resource in the industry.

• Virtual Events and Webinars: Those who can’t attend in person should consider hosting virtual events. Webinars that focus on upcoming trends, led by industry experts, can be a great way to reach a broader audience. Plus, you can follow up with attendees via email to keep the conversation going.

How do you make sure you’re not just another choice, but the only choice!?

Provide Value

When it comes to helping your clients make the best decisions for their homes, the value you provide during a showroom consultation can make all the difference. It’s not just about showing them beautiful stone countertops—it’s about helping them see how those countertops will work within the broader context of their home’s design.

One of the most effective ways to add value during a showroom consultation is by offering a complete design experience. Have paint samples, cabinet samples, and flooring samples on hand so your clients can see how everything will come together. When they can visualize their entire space—down to the last detail—they’ll feel more confident in their choices. This not only helps them make better decisions but also sets you apart as a provider who truly cares about their satisfaction.

By staying on top of trends and providing exceptional value, you’re not just offering products—you’re creating an experience that helps clients make confident decisions.

When you prioritize their needs and guide them through the latest styles, you build trust and secure the sale.

In the end, it’s this commitment to value that keeps customers coming back

EVENTS IN THE STONE INDUSTRY

Digital Stoneworking Expo

October 4, 2024

Honolulu, HI

Education sessions, CNC machine demos, fabricator speakers, and exclusive tours.

For more info Click Here!

SFA Workshop

Hosted by - Bluewater Surfaces (Dustin Braudway)

October 17, 2024

Location - Wilmington, NC

For more info Click Here!

Thanks for reading! If you have any questions or need to discuss anything send me an email!

Take care!!

Alyssa McKenna

[email protected]