SOMERSET, NJ -- The 2014 Cabinets & Closets Conference & Expo got off to a great start with high-energy conference sessions, buzzing crowds and steady traffic that led at several points to crowded aisles. Software applications, running machinery, and wood components dominate the offerings.

Education sessions were held Wed., April 9 at the Hotel Somerset-Bridgewater in Somerset, NJ, after a keynote from cabinetmaker and New York Times blogger Paul Downs. That day was capped off by a gala design awards reception featuring winning designers from BEST Kitchen Design Contest, Top Shelf Design Awards and Design Portfolio.

Cabinets & Closets Expo kicked off Thurs. morning at the Garden State Exhibit Center with a great deal of excitement as attendees saw a host of new machinery and products and supplies from software demonstrations to new edgbander and CNC technology. Free how-to demonstrations also were held throughout the show.

Contracts have already been signed for the 2015 show, which will be held in Chicago, April 14-16, right after the Stiles EBC in St. Charles, IL.