ATLANTA—Join Closets & Organized Storage magazine on Monday, August 5, for the IWF Closets Symposium, sponsored by CCF Industries, Cyncly, and Hettich.

This event, held one day before the opening of the 2024 International Woodworking Fair, is in room B311 of the Georgia World Congress Center and will feature sessions designed to provide insight and practical advice for professionals in the closet and storage industry. The sessions cover pricing strategies, design trends, marketing, installation techniques, functional hardware, and lighting design; attendees will learn how to grow their businesses and stay ahead in the competitive closet industry.

Morning sessions:

“Am I Charging Enough? How to Find the Pricing Sweet Spot” (9:05 a.m. - 9:55 a.m.)
Tim Coleman of SCE Unlimited will kick off the symposium by addressing a common yet crucial question for entrepreneurs: "How much should I charge?" From his January 2024 article in Closets & Organized Storage magazine, Coleman will break down the pricing complexities. He will explore the fundamental components influencing selling prices, including material and labor costs, overhead expenses, and desired profits. This session promises to demystify pricing strategies and help attendees establish a structure that aligns with their business goals.

“Future of Design: Trends Shaping the Industry” (10:00 a.m. - 10:50 a.m.)
Christina Relyea, president of JB Cutting/ACSP, and Wendy Scott of Timeless Closets & Cabinetry will discuss the latest design trends impacting and shaping the future of interior design. This session will highlight innovative ideas, emerging styles, and cutting-edge techniques.

“Integrated Marketing: Novice to Enterprise Strategies to Elevate Your Business” (11:00 a.m. - 11:50 a.m.)
Allanna Bell of Optimization Dolls, Abbas Naqvi of GWP Inc., and Danny and Mady Barrera of Contractor Click will share strategies for leveraging social media and digital marketing to build a solid foundation for small businesses. They will provide practical tips for engaging audiences and creating impactful content. The session will also cover scaling up to paid marketing, lead generation, and branding, offering a comprehensive roadmap for sustainable growth and increased visibility.

Lunch (12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.)

Afternoon sessions:

“Mastering Closet Installation with Leather, Glass & Aluminum Finishes” (1:10 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.)
Eric Marshall from the Closet Training Institute, Christian Nadeau, president of EcoDomo, and Wendy Scott of Timeless Closets & Cabinetry will provide hands-on tips and insights on integrating leather, glass, and aluminum finishes into closet projects. Attendees will learn how to navigate installation challenges and ensure durability and client satisfaction.

“How to Maximize Closet Space with Functional Hardware” (2:10 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.)
Richie DeMarco of Richelieu, Scott Begin of Hafele America, and Kate Bernyk and Taylor Rachko of Distinctive Designs will explore the principles of integrating functional hardware into closet design. They will showcase various hardware options, from innovative sliding mechanisms to space-saving organizers, emphasizing thoughtful planning and strategic implementation to enhance utility and versatility.

“Guide to Custom Closet Lighting Design” (3:10 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.)
Leatie Morris of Rev-A-Shelf will conclude the symposium with a session on the importance of custom closet lighting design. Morris will explore how proper lighting can transform a closet from a simple storage space into a sanctuary that adds value to a home and enhances daily life. Attendees will learn the crucial aspects of lighting design to create functional and aesthetically pleasing closet spaces.

To register, visit iwfatlanta.com.

Following the all-day symposium is the Woodworking Network Leadership reception, sponsored by PaintLine and Allmoxy, celebrating the Wood Industry 40 Under 40 Class of 2024.