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NKBA’s 2023 VFTI Sessions On Demand
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2023 VFTI Sessions

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Building / Remodeling
Custom Cabinetry, Trends and Techniques From Inside the Wood ShopOwen Madden, Rowan Woodwork
Designing & Selling With 3D Software0.1 CEUsScott Harris, CKBD, Chief Architect Software
Do you see designers using software to show clients design options to sell projects? Are you able to offer options quickly to your clients? 3D software provides a variety of visualization tools, such as elevations, perspectives, photo and artistic renderings, 360 renderings and virtual reality. If a client can visualize how a new project will look, they are much more likely to begin a project. Learn to take full advantage of today’s 3D design software and provide your clients with visual, interactive and dynamic designs.
Functional Trends Impacting Design in Custom Homes and Luxury Remodels0.1 CEUsJennifer Hutton, Grau Building Company
This lecture will focus on trends that builders and designers face with incorporating designs such as elevators, saferooms, lighting, indoor/outdoor spaces and home offices. These are major planning efforts on the builder’s side, have major design implications and should be treated as opportunities to showcase well-executed luxury design.
It’s all Downhill…The Evolution of Slope-to-Drain Shower Pans0.1 CEUsDean Moilanen, Noble Company
Slope-to-drain waterproofing concepts are an essential part of ceramic tile and stone installations. Failure to follow industry best practices can result in costly failures in wet-area applications. In this discussion, we will examine some of the historical means, methods and best practices of slope-to-drain installation, in addition to new technologies which offer more consistency, reliability and durability. At the conclusion of this presentation, you will be armed with the most current and relevant information regarding slope-to-drain installation.
Shower In Safety: An Irish and UK perspective..05 CEUsChristopher Hackett, Classic Marble (Showers) Ltd
Shower safety is important because of its slippery wet and soapy environment. Attendees will benefit from this presentation by gaining an understanding of how the UK and Irish markets deal with the anti-slip properties of shower trays. The presentation covers the advantages and disadvantages of production methods for shower trays, ways to increase anti-slip properties and the slip resistance measurements used. The presentation also covers the data and the link between cleaning and slip resistance.
The Remodeling Dream Team: Partnering With Builders for Project Success!0.1 CEUsGary W. Gray, Harrell Design + Build
We’ve all had those projects that didn’t go well. The design was masterfully conceived and planned out, but when it came to construction, the project fell short of its full potential. Collaboration with stakeholders is the key to the success of any project, especially kitchen and bath remodels. In this presentation, you will learn about where projects typically go wrong in the spectrum of the design and construction divide. You will learn about strategies and best practices to bring design and construction teams together for successful project outcomes.
Customer Service
Clearing the Air: Literally and Figuratively.05 CEUsAnna Violand, Broan NuTone
When we talk about indoor air quality with our customers, is it after choosing our cooking surface or when we size the bathroom for adequate lighting? Or maybe not at all. Indoor air quality can be up to five times worse than outdoor air quality. In this session, you will learn the tools necessary to keep our customers’ homes and health at the forefront of your mind during the sales process. Whether it is new construction or a remodel, the options are endless to provide our customers with a product that gives them the cleanest air possible.
Go Deep – The Playbook for Lifelong Customer Loyalty0.1 CEUsBen Freeman, Ben Freeman and Associates
In a world inundated with instant gratification and ceaseless competition for your attention, retaining customers is harder than ever. If your business has a foundation of weak relationships, it has never been easier for your customers to switch to a competitor. During this customized, story-filled keynote, Ben Freeman delivers insights into the minds of consumers from over 50,000 interviews he has personally conducted over 20 years in business and private practice. You will learn what types of interactions truly matter to customers, what keeps them coming back and why they can’t stop referring you to others.
Design
5 Reasons Why Zero-Joint Edgebanding is the Future of Kitchen Design..05 CEUsJesse Collins, Mark Kraus, REHAU
As a designer or showroom selling cabinetry, edgebanding is important to understand – not only for quality and appearance but also for durability, and environmental and health considerations. This presentation will focus on the benefits of zero-joint edgebanding – what it is, and how you can expand your business with it. We will also explore the styles available and what is trending in the market, including some cutting-edge technologies. Whether you want to gain more residential or commercial customers, zero-joint edgebanding will give your product a first-rate finish that elevates your designs.
Creating and Implementing Color Schemes With Ease and Confidence0.1 CEUsRuthanne M. Hanlon, PPG Paints
Content includes detailed review of color theory, color systems and creating schemes based on the color wheel, elements and a range of inspiration. Understanding why and how color can go wrong is instrumental in avoiding color confusion and managing client expectations. Interactive content with colorful examples.
Designing Showers With Frameless Glass in MindShannon McKinney, DT Glass, Inc.
Designing with Appliances in Mind & How to Avoid Costly MistakesSandra Tierney, CMKBD, Cabinets By Design
Easing Into Aging in Place Design0.1 CEUsSarah Nielsen, CKBD, Showplace Cabinetry Design Center
Aging in place is an underestimated part of the design process. Too many designers think that designing for Aging in place is only necessary for elderly or late aged clients. In truth, all clients can benefit from elements of Aging in Place design theory. There are many simple additives to every design that can be utilized for any age.
Fit to Print: How to be Seen and Considered by Design PublicationsShannon Ratcliffe, Middleby Residential
Foam & Function – How Foam has Changed Architecture0.1 CEUsJames Medina, Noble Company
This course explains the uses of foam in the construction field by examining the product attributes that lead to successful installations and the characteristics of foam density that can contribute to failure. We will also compare installation methods and ways to specify successful installations.
How can Interior Design Promote Wellness?0.1 CEUsDina Al-Dajani, CMKBD, East Carolina University
The interior designer’s success is not just limited to designing the layout of interior spaces and complying with building, health and safety, and product regulations. Applying the connection between the built environment, and health and well-being to our spaces, is beginning to gather momentum. In this discussion, learn how designing the interiors of residential and commercial spaces can significantly influence our physical health, as well as our emotional state of mind.
Incorporating Smart Tech Into Luxury Kitchen Design0.1 CEUsSue Bailey, Nicholas Ritchie, Signature Kitchen Suite
During this presentation, Sue and a panel of industry experts will speak on the evolution of today’s luxury American kitchen — with a focus on new technologies. This panel will bring together a diverse group of experts who will share insights related to the luxury kitchen marketplace, the incorporation of smart technologies available today, as well as the advancements to expect in the next 3-5 years.
Integrating Smart Home Technology with Elegant Interior DesignAlex Capecelatro. Josh.ai
Kitchens & Baths for Autism to DementiaDani Polidor, CKD-CBD, CLIPP, ASID, Suite Artistry
Outdoor Kitchens: Making Them Beautiful and Functional.05 CEUsStacy McCarthy, CMKBD, Middleby Residential
Outdoor cooking has come a long way in recent years, from simple stone or brick “grills” to luxury outdoor kitchens that allow families to entertain and cook with the comfort and convenience of the indoor kitchen. This course discusses the fundamental design and planning strategies for outdoor kitchens, environmental and construction considerations, and an overview of the outdoor kitchen products available on the market today.
Transitional Design Style0.1 CEUsPaula Kennedy, CMKBD, Timeless Kitchen Design LLC
Contemporary, traditional or transitional? If you ask 10 designers, you may get 10 different answers. The transitional design style is the often-misunderstood middle child. However, it is a huge catch-all category. We will explore features, elements of design, principles of design, materials and the details that make up the transitional design. By comparing and contrasting, you’ll learn how to easily identify your client’s style and how the architecture of the residence plays a part as well.
Grow Your Business
Are You Running Your Business or is it Running You?0.1 CEUsMelanie Towey, Melanie Anne, LLC
Are you a business owner or a senior-level executive and want to see your business consistently run better and grow faster? This talk delivers a powerful, inspirational presentation that will introduce you to the Six Key Components™ of a successful business. You will also learn about The Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS®), a comprehensive business operating system that aligns and synchronizes all of the parts of the business. At the conclusion of this talk, you will walk away with a set of simple, practical tools that your leadership team will use immediately to focus on priorities and gain traction together.
Brand New! Building Your Best BrandJoseph DeCasperis, Joseph DeCasperis Design
Color Cues – A Fresh Approach to the Sales Process.05 CEUsNancy Busch, AKBD, ISFA
What’s your favorite color? The answer is the key to understanding how you can relate to your customer on an emotional level, the level that closes a sale quickest. Salespeople spend way too much time selling from their own perspective and their own aesthetic. It’s not about what you think, it’s about what your customer thinks! Learn how to break the cycle and find a direct path to better understanding — and serving — your customers’ needs.
Designing the Next Generation Smart HomeJoAnn Arcenal, Chelsie Butler, panelist TBD, Crestron
European Kitchen Furniture: What Matters Most.05 CEUsBill Speights, nobilia North America
The desire for European kitchens and furniture continues to grow in the North American market. Momentum for cleaner, more modern design aesthetics is hot and here to stay! With the market flush with an appreciation for streamlined looks, what are the biggest differentiators in delivering what customers want from start to finish? Join Bill Speights, SVP of nobilia North America, the world’s largest manufacturer of European Kitchen Furniture, as he breaks down key topics to understand and consider. The discussion covers the evaluation of materials, why European innovation leads in construction, and logistics and installation.
From Brick and Mortar to Click to Order- Making the Transition Online.0.1 CEUsMegan Jansky McIntyre , The Marketing Corner
It’s hard to imagine our lives without online shopping. With the growth of the Internet and changes in consumer behavior, clients now expect everything to be purchased effortlessly with a click of a button–including the design and remodeling industry. Whether you are transitioning to selling your services online or are just starting to understand what’s involved, “From Brick and Mortar to Click to Order” will give kitchen and bath professionals the knowledge and tools needed to make their e-commerce business soar!
How Kitchen Remodeling Companies can Leverage Their Google Business Profile0.5 CEUsMichael Goldstein, Josh Wheeler, Kitchen Remodeling SEO
With Google constantly moving things around and rolling out Local Service Ads, you might have come to the conclusion that Google Business Profiles (GBP) and Google Maps are no longer relevant. However, it’s still the #1 place your customers are clicking and calling from when they need a remodeling contractor or kitchen designer in their area. You are missing out if you are not ranking in the local 3-pack. Michael Goldstein’s session discusses a proven four-step formula for getting kitchen & bath remodeling businesses ranked on Google Maps in even the most competitive markets.
How Living In Place Principles Affects Our Business & Professional LivesToni Sabatino, AKBD, Maria Stapperfenne, CMKBD, Louie Delaware, Toni Sabatino Style
How to Enter and Win Design Contests0.1 CEUsDoug Walter, CMKBD, Gina D’Amore Bauerle, Doug Walter Architects
Are you tired of watching others going up on stage to pick up their awards? Frustrated because you know your project is better than theirs? Winning takes a plan that starts long before the contest deadline. Two experienced designers with almost 200 awards between them share the inside scoop on how you can maximize your chances with step-by-step instructions, and hear from prior judges what the most common mistakes to avoid are. This is your year to go up on that stage, stand in the spotlight and add “award-winning” to your name.
How to Grow Your Interior Design Business.05 CEUsAriana Lovato, AKBD, Honeycomb Home Design
In this presentation, you’ll learn the techniques I’ve used to grow my company over the past six years. I’ll also explain our design process and how we use 3D Technology to convey our design intent.
How to Leverage Social Media to Grow Your Presence Locally0.1 CEUsShaun Ayala, Best Buy
Are you looking for ways to reach a larger audience locally? Do you want to create engaging content that attracts your ideal customer? In this session, award-winning social media storyteller and K&B marketer, Shaun Ayala, will share strategic and practical social media essentials to build awareness locally, create original content and stand out on social media.
Marketing Online: Mastering the Shift to Video0.1 CEUsLori Dolnick, Frank Advertising
It’s no secret that videos have become the most popular choice for content consumption today. With TikTok surpassing YouTube in average watch time per user and Instagram essentially being a video platform, using video on your website has never been more important. It can increase conversions by 86% and organic search by 157%. If you are a business owner, brand, marketing or social media manager, this discussion can help you generate engaging video content for your website, social platforms, customer service and ongoing marketing.
Nurturing Company Culture While Growing Internally and Expanding Geographically.05 CEUsDavid Shove-Brown, //3877
As challenges persist in industries of all kinds to attract and retain talent, companies must look inward to solve these evolving employee obstacles. In this interactive presentation, David Shove-Brown brings his vibrant personality to this conversation to discuss topics such as hybrid work, ‘The Great Resignation’ and company culture conversation. This discussion will equip the audience with the tools to ensure they’re doing all they can to nurture their company culture while making strategic steps toward growth and success.
Reframing the Luxury Upsell; Employing Techniques to Improve ASP (Average Selling Price) and Client Satisfaction.05 CEUsGreg Rohl, Lou Rohl, The Rohl Model
Recent surveys of homeowners who had completed a kitchen remodel found more than half wish they had spent more, even as many showroom managers struggle to help their sales consultants “upsell” their premium or luxury products more effectively. Is there a link between our ability to communicate the value of our luxury options and the client’s desire for a tailored and unique kitchen and/or bath? Greg & Lou Rohl take look at how we can both benefit our businesses and improve our clients’ lives through a better understanding of what matters and motivates the high net worth customer.
Scaling Your Business Through Lead Buying (Do’s and Don’ts)0.1 CEUsMatthew Burkinshaw, CNL Solutions Group LLC dbanon HomeAppointments
In this session, participants will learn how companies can successfully utilize lead buying to scale their businesses. We’ll discuss how lead buying fits in with other business growth strategies and teach practical “do’s and don’ts” garnered from actual experience. Participants will walk away with a better understanding of whether lead buying fits their business goals and what they will need to have in place in their business to make this strategy successful.
Selling to Design by NOT Designing to Sell 0.1 CEUsJan Neiges, CMKBD, Jan Neiges CKD LLC
Do you spend more than 2 hours converting a prospect to a client? Do you spend hours creating a design before you even get a commitment that the client is going to buy from you? Kitchen and bath designer Jan Neiges can teach you her process of how to “Sell to Design” by not “Designing to Sell,” which has consistently increased her closing ratio and quickly earns design fees within a 2-hour investment of time before she puts pencil to paper to design.
Smart Technology for All Living In Place Clients0.1 CEUsRyan Herd, Toni Sabatino, AKBD, Caregiver Smart Solutions
Most homes already have some level of technology, and in the future, all homes will be completely connected. This discussion will help you understand how home technology has transformed from just a thermostat you dial to controlling almost everything in your home — sometimes automatically. Learn the pros and cons of smart technology from two well-known experts and what it can do to help your clients who live in place and want medical solutions in the home.
Storage for Every Room in the HomeEric Marshall, Kitchens and Closets by DEA
The Outdoors is In0.1 CEUsRyan Bloom, Urban Bonfire
Where there was once a disconnect between indoor and outdoor design, industry professionals now find themselves in the unique position of bridging this gap and creating solutions. Hear from Urban Bonfire’s Co-Founder and President, Ryan Bloom, as he discusses strategies to turn decks, backyards and rooftops into activated outdoor cooking and entertaining spaces. Learn about the technical, functional and regional considerations and key principles of outdoor kitchen design with a focus on creating usable spaces.
The Recession-Proof Kitchen and Bath Company0.1 CEUsFred Reikowsky, Legacy Business Leaders LLC
In the rapidly changing and unpredictable times we live in, there are unyielding principles that stand out as a kitchen and bath professional’s frontline defense. In short, this session discusses the way of the future for business owners committed to winning long-term. Find out how to proactively address marketplace uncertainty and implement a strategy that will establish your company as an industry leader and create a significant competitive advantage.
Video Marketing: Properly Capture Projects for Company Branding0.1 CEUsBrian Javeline, MyOnlineToolbox
There is only one present your image with emotion and passion, and that is through video. People read while hearing their own voice, yet video brings the message to your customers exactly how you want them to hear it. Professional videos are obviously the best choice but videos by smartphone can be quality driven too. Making videos is 50% of the marketing challenge, and how to use them to generate More Quality Leads is the other 50% of the marketing opportunity. Why create videos if no one will find them in the first place? Many fail to use their best clients correctly when it comes to Video Marketing. Here we teach you how to get your best 24×7 salesforce to promote your business.
What We Have Learned From Our Experiences With Supply Chain Issues – COVID19 Delays, Customer Interaction Changes and What to do Going Forward0.1 CEUsJohn Valente, Manufacturers Rep Group, Inc.
In this discussion, we take our experiences over the last two years and teach you how to navigate the “new normal” with customers, contractors and suppliers. We will examine methods on how to educate consumers on our changing industry, how successfully augment expectations in project flow and completion times, and, most importantly, how the consumer must treat everyone as a partner.
K&B Specialty Training
Kitchen Designs and Appliances for Living In PlaceSheri Gold, CKD, CLIPP, GE Haier
The Benefits of Implementing Water Conservation Standards by Building Beyond Code0.1 CEUsMichael Campbell, Niagara
Have you been struggling with the restrictions that the building codes have put on your projects? After this session with Michael Campbell, you will become an expert in current global water usage and standards, voluntary green building rating systems and how to upgrade specifications for efficiency. You will then be able to confidently provide various case studies to clients when they need information on sustainable products, in addition to choosing water-efficient products.
Management
Succession Planning – Ensuring Your Business’s Continued Success0.1 CEUsRikka Brandon, Megan Kappen, Building Gurus
Succession planning is crucial to creating and maintaining a sustainable, profitable business, yet most businesses don’t have this process in place. In this session, participants will learn from experts and will take part in a variety of activities, including how to determine the values of the organization; how to conduct critical analysis to simplify the key roles for success; and how to assess their internal talent to clearly identify gaps and develop a strategic workforce development plan.
The Art of Delegating Effectively: Increase Your Leadership Through DelegationSteve Wheeler, Remodelers Advantage Inc.
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