Where To Source Trade Exclusive Fabric, Wallpaper, Furniture, Lighting, and More
My most frequent inquiry is from potential clients asking me if they can source designer products through me. The answer is always “yes!” and every time I get that question I think to myself that I should make a post about it. Well, here it is! So, if you’ve been wondering where to source your favorite trade exclusive pieces, this post is for you! I’m sharing all the options so you can choose the one that’s best for you and your budget. Save this post for your future self so you know where to shop next time you’re looking for trade exclusive pieces!
Shop Through A Procurement Service
Using a procurement service like the one I offer on my website here allows you to shop most brands typically reserved for interior designers. You’ll be able to order samples, request pricing, and ultimately place your order directly through me. As well as having access to fabric, trim, and wallpaper, I’m able to source lighting, furniture, rugs, decor, and more. Because you’re communicating with a real person to order, rather than an online retailer, you can ask any question you may have about lead times, CFA’s, shipping, and anything else you think of. For this service, I add a fair percentage onto the trade prices to compensate for my time and the service itself.
Shop Through Your Interior Designer
If you have an interior designer you’ve previously worked with, they may be a great resource for future procurement. With their access to everything you could ever want, and then some, anything you’re interested in will be available to you. Not every interior designer will offer this service as they’ll be busy with current design projects. However, it never hurts to ask. If they don’t offer this service, luckily for you there are other options. Every designer's fee structure is different, but expect designers to charge a rate for their time, plus a markup on the product, which varies by the interior designer and desired product.
Shop Through An Online Retailer
There are many online retailers, such as L.A. Design Concepts and Decorators Best, where you can purchase designer fabrics and wallpapers. They are limited in the brands they work with and the products they carry, but they do allow access to otherwise trade exclusive brands. Their prices are significantly higher than some other options, so you’re paying for access to designer brands and the convenience of ordering online. Many customers find the lead times deceiving when shopping with these retailers as they don’t carry stock on hand but order it directly from the brand when you place your order. If the brand is out of stock of your chosen item, you could end up waiting months for new stock to arrive.
Shop Through The Secondhand Market
You can find many trade exclusive products on eBay, Etsy, and Marketplace. I think this avenue is better if you’re open to options vs having your heart set on something specific. You may find exactly what you want already listed, but usually you have to practice patience while you wait for what you want to show up. I recommend saving searches for what you want and checking back frequently. It may take time, but you can find great things!
Final Thoughts
Shop around! Get a quote from the online retailer, get a quote from a procurement service like mine, and if you can, get a quote from an interior designer. With so many avenues for ordering available, don’t rush your decision. I always recommend ordering a sample, inquiring about lead times, and getting shipping quotes. Also, don’t forget to check eBay. They may have exactly what you want. Once you’re ready, make your decision as an informed shopper and choose the option that is best for your project and budget.