WHFA’s Managerial Conference A Roaring Success

Furniture World Magazine

The Western Home Furnishings Association played host to over 275 home furnishings industry professionals on the shores of Mission Bay, San Diego, CA, May 18-20, 2003. Retailers from nearly 70 stores, as well as manufacturers and industry representatives all agreed that the conference campaign claims to “Tame the Beasts” were met and exceeded through the educational programs, networking, and socializing that were part of this annual event. The WHFA Annual conference brought together many industry groups. A large contingent of the Pacific Furniture Dealers and the Board of directors of the California Furniture Manufacturers Association both held meetings in conjunction with the conference. Representatives from The National Home Furnishings Association, the San Francisco Mart, San Francisco Concourse & Design Center, and The Wholesale Furniture Association were in attendance as well. The diversity of attendees created many opportunities to share and gain knowledge. Cocktail receptions, creative hat making, interactive workshops, and a perfect weather golf tournament prompted George Nader, Nader’s LaPopular, Gardena, CA to say this about the conference, “It was a fantastic conference, everyone there felt that they were part of something very special.” The hilarity of Tuesday evening’s Master of Ceremonies, Roger Bumps, Davis Furniture, Wenatchee, WA, turned serious as WHFA’s highest honor, The Western Retailer of the Year Award was presented to David Harkness, Harkness Furniture, Tacoma, WA. David received the award from longtime friend and former NHFA Retailer of the Year, Giff Gates, Gates Furniture, Grants Pass, OR. Giff illuminated David’s great passion for his business, his family and his community. David, upon receiving the award, responded “I love The Home Furnishings Business.” His passionate acceptance remarks were greeted with a standing ovation. The event closed with all attendees being invited to join WHFA next year when they partner with NHFA to bring the industry together at the joint WHFA and NHFA All Industry Convention, May 2004, at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort, Phoenix, AZ.