How to Grow Your Interior Design or Window Treatment Business More Efficiently
Twenty-two years ago, the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA) was founded as a nonprofit focused on connecting window treatment retailers throughout the country. Today, the scope of the WCAA has expanded to create a community of all those who come together to create beautiful interiors, including retailers, interior designers, installers, and workrooms. The WCAA provides a wide range of member benefits, and in 2022, those benefits will be better than ever.
A Community with Other Designers & Workrooms
The top benefit of membership in the WCAA is your connection to a community of individuals dedicated to creating beautiful interior spaces. Ten local chapters throughout the US host monthly meetings, often featuring a guest speaker, workshop, or an Industry Partner. There is also a virtual chapter for those who aren’t located near a local chapter or prefer to network and learn online. The chapters are more than just a professional organization – they are communities that care about their members. We often hear wonderful stories about chapter members helping one another and creating friendships that last a lifetime.
Ongoing Education to Keep You Up-to-Date
WCAA members have access to ten new educational webinars per year and a back catalog from the previous five years. Topics focus on how to strengthen and grow your business, including marketing, utilizing apps such as Instagram, and creating sales funnels. The WCAA also plans to launch “mini webinars,” which will be short, 10-15 minute segments from experts in specific fields.
The WCAA is proud to offer the Jill Robson Scholarship to encourage members to continue seeking educational opportunities. This scholarship provides a $750 stipend to three members per year for use in online courses and conference travel. You can find out more on the WCAA website.
Concierge-Style Insurance Services for the Self-Employed
As independent contractors and small business owners, it can be challenging to find suitable insurance. That’s why the WCAA is thrilled to offer insurance from LIG, a company that provides concierge-style insurance services. You can work with them to put together a package including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, disability insurance, life insurance, and more, perfectly tailored to your needs.
Exposure Directly to Homeowners in Your Local Area
One of our best new features for our members is a directory powered by Google Maps to help customers search for industry professionals in their area. The WCAA created the Window & Interior Service Professional (WISP) Directory, a microsite with advanced search engine optimization (SEO) and customer-friendly features to help members connect with potential clients.
Discounts from Vendors You’re Already Using
You can save on the services you need through the Industry Partner Discounts. The average WCAA member saves over $1,000 per year on services such as coaching and marketing, as well as on products such as popular window treatments, trim, hardware, and motorization; some members save up to $10,000 per year, which is a fantastic return on investment for the low $165 per year membership fee for the WCAA.
And Much More
There’s so much more that the WCAA offers to its members, including perks like magazine subscriptions. The best part is that we’re always listening. The WCAA board uses its annual member survey to determine which new features and benefits to offer members next; some of our best benefits, such as health insurance and the WISP directory, have come from member suggestions! In the WCAA, your voice matters.
Interested in Joining the WCAA?
Find out more by clicking here. You can also find us at industry conferences, such as the International Window Covering Expo (IWCE) in April 2022 and the Custom Workroom Conference in October 2022. Our board members would love to meet with you in person!