BEYOND BOOKED

Beyond Booked is a fast-paced, half-day educational event bringing together nationally recognized experts in vacation rental design, branding, and marketing. Designed for short-term rental hosts, investors, and property managers, the program offers actionable insights to help create more compelling, guest-focused, and profitable stays.

With High Point designated as a Certified Autism Destination, Beyond Booked also shines a spotlight on the importance—and opportunity—of inclusive travel. Attendees will learn how accessible design not only supports guests with physical and cognitive disabilities but also provides a competitive edge in today’s evolving hospitality market.

Conceived by the team behind the award-winning Vacation Rental Design Summit, the afternoon is rooted in strengthening High Point’s year-round short-term rental landscape—though the takeaways apply far beyond the local market. Attendees will walk away with inspiration, tools, and proven strategies to design smarter, market with clarity, and ultimately earn more.

• Lorraine Woodward, founder of
• Jessica Duce, principal of and cofounder of
• Ericka Saurit, founder of and
• Chelsea Hannon, owner of
• Jill Harrill, Engagement Manager, Valdese Weavers

The Undeniable Relationship between Design and Short-term Rental Success

Interior designer Jessica Duce reveals how intentional interiors can elevate the guest experience, drive positive reviews, and ultimately increase revenue. Drawing from data and her professional experiences, Jessica offers practical strategies for enhancing your space—regardless of budget or aesthetic—proving that smart, guest-focused design is a most powerful tool for your rental business.

Where Design Meets Demand: Unlocking the Accessible Vacation Rental Market

There is a rising and underserved demand for accessible vacation rentals — properties thoughtfully designed to welcome travelers with physical and cognitive disabilities. Where Design Meets Demand is a focused seminar that will explore how inclusive design isn’t just good hospitality — it’s smart business. Led by keynote Lorraine Woodward, founder of Becoming RentABLE, this session will unpack the real market potential of accessible rentals, the design considerations that matter, and how to position your property to meet the needs of this growing segment.

Designed to Stand Out Online

Your property isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a carefully crafted brand. In this session, designer and brand strategist Ericka Saurit shares practical tips for creating a clear, compelling online presence that sets your property apart and drives higher-value bookings. Discover why the words and images you use to market your listing matter just as much as the space itself.

In addition to our featured speakers, Beyond Booked will include insights and welcome remarks from community leaders and partners who are shaping the future of hospitality, tourism, and design in High Point:

• Jane Dagmi, Managing Director, (HPxD)
• Melody Burnett, President,
• Christina Payne, Director of Business Development,
• Alexa Nota, Cofounder + COO,
• Rebekah McGee, Executive Director,
• Lyndsey Ayers, Assistant Vice President for University Relations, High Point University

Special thanks to Visit High Point and Downtown High Point:The first 25 registrants will receive a $50 , redeemable at participating local businesses—an added incentive to invest in your education and explore the heart of High Point.

Extend your stay in High Point! From August 13-16, attendees are encouraged to explore the HPxD Sizzle Sale—a unique opportunity to shop an exceptional selection of high-quality home furnishings at significantly reduced prices. Whether you're looking to refresh a room or fully outfit a short-term rental, this is the perfect chance to source stylish, durable pieces that elevate your property and enhance the guest experience.

Host or Publisher High Point x Design