Business Details
Premier Handcrafted Furniture & Holiday Markets in Providence
We are a seasoned event planning organization with 36 years of expertise in curating high-quality artisan showcases. Our team has produced the Fine Furnishings Show for 28 years and managed the Newport International Boat Show for 15 years, combining deep industry knowledge with a passion for craftsmanship. We operate from the state-of-the-art WaterFire Arts Center, offering 500+ free parking spaces and modern amenities to enhance visitor experience. Our events feature American-made furniture, home decor, and fine art from juried artists while supporting sustainability through handmade, recycled, and small business-focused practices.We provide custom commission opportunities and maintain a commitment to community engagement through educational partnerships like the North Bennet Street School furniture program. With a proven track record in event management, we ensure seamless execution of large-scale shows that celebrate artistic excellence and foster meaningful connections between creators and consumers.
Services
Fine Furnishings Show
Holiday Market
Exhibitor Applications
Artisan Showcases
Custom Commissions
Sustainability Initiatives
Venue Management
Community Engagement
Artist Networking
Event Planning
Highlights and features
- 36 years of proven show management experience
- Spectacular venue with modern amenities and free parking
- Exclusive focus on American-made, handmade products
- Custom commission opportunities with featured artisans
- Strong commitment to sustainability and small business support
Services
Fine Furnishings Show
Our annual three-day event showcases American-made, handcrafted furniture, home decor, and fine art from juried artisans. Featuring work from North Bennet Street School students and offering custom commission opportunities, the show combines tradition with innovation in a spectacular venue with modern amenities and free parking.
Holiday Market
This juried two-day shopping event features thousands of handmade gift items from over 90 artists and craftsmen. Visitors find unique holiday decor and gifts while supporting small businesses and artisans. The market includes handmade jewelry, fiber arts, and custom-designed pieces for all gift-giving needs.
Exhibitor Applications
We accept applications for both our Fine Furnishings Show and Holiday Market events. Our selection process ensures high-quality, handmade products that align with our sustainability values. Accepted exhibitors gain access to a dedicated customer base and prime venue space for showcasing their work.
Custom Commissions
Selected exhibitors offer custom and commissioned work for clients seeking unique pieces. This service connects customers directly with skilled artisans for personalized furniture, decor, or art creations that meet specific design requirements and preferences.
Sustainability Initiatives
We promote environmental responsibility through handmade, recycled, and locally sourced products. Our events support small businesses and sustainable production methods while maintaining a zero-waste approach to event management and operations.
People
Hank Gilpin
Advisory Board Member
Founder of Gilpin Designs with decades of furniture design experience, contributing expertise in craftsmanship and quality standards to our event planning.
Dylan Josephs
Advisory Board Member
Owner of Turkey Tail Design & Woodcraft, bringing specialized knowledge in woodworking and artisan product development to our advisory team.
Jan Franco
Advisory Board Member
Jewelry designer and founder of JMF DeZigns, providing creative direction and artisan perspective for our event curation and exhibitor selection.
Jon Peirce
Advisory Board Member
Representative from Industrious Revolution with expertise in industrial design and custom furniture production for our featured showcases.
Carol Way Wood
Advisory Board Member
Established artist offering insights into fine art curation and presentation standards for our annual exhibitions and market events.
Questions
What are the dates for the 2025 Fine Furnishings Show?
The 30th Annual Fine Furnishings Show will take place from November 7-9, 2025 at the WaterFire Arts Center in Providence, RI.
Do you offer custom furniture commission services?
Yes, many exhibitors provide custom and commissioned work. Visitors can discuss personalized design requests directly with participating artisans during our events.
What sustainability practices do you implement?
We prioritize handmade, recycled, and locally sourced products while supporting small businesses. Our venue features energy-efficient systems and waste reduction initiatives.
Is there parking available at your events?
Yes, we offer 500+ free parking spaces at the WaterFire Arts Center venue for all our shows and market events.
Are purchases tax-exempt at your shows?
Yes, there is no sales tax on purchases of handmade items at our shows, making it more affordable for customers to support artisans.
