The Inspired Home Show and Sunday Morning Coffee

Last week, I had the fantastic opportunity to attend The Inspired Home Show in Chicago, and I can honestly say—it was an unforgettable experience!

As one of eight social media influencers selected to attend, I toured the show as an ambassador, met incredible brand executives, and got a firsthand look at the future of home and housewares.

Person standing behind a large sign reading "Celebrating 125 Shows" at The Inspired Home Show in front of a turquoise-tiled background.
Season 4 Volume 10

Thanks for joining me for Sunday Morning Coffee. This is a place to share, learn, explain, dream, and have fun. Let’s get started!

About Me

A group of nine women pose for a selfie in a mirrored room. They are dressed in casual to semi-formal attire and are smiling at the camera.
Clara Haneberg and Laiza Cors from @Embello_inc, @inspiringkitchen, @sincerelysarad, @poshinprogress, @dreamingofhomemaking, @inspiringkitchen, @lifeisnetterqthome, @jordecor, @home_ec_op

The Inspired Home Show, formerly the International Home + Housewares Show, is the largest housewares show in the Western Hemisphere. This year marked its 125th show, bringing together over 1,600 exhibitors and some of the biggest brands in the industry.

I knew this would be a special event, but nothing could have prepared me for the inspiration, creativity, and connections I experienced in Chicago.

An Incredible Experience at The Inspired Home Show in Chicago

Three stacked glass bowls in yellow, green, and blue shades, each with a matching lid, displayed on a white surface.
New Spring Bowls from Pyrex. We saw these colors everywhere at the show. Aren’t they fabulous?

The Inspired Home Show, formerly the International Home + Housewares Show, is the largest housewares show in the Western Hemisphere. This year marked its 125th show, bringing together over 1,600 exhibitors and some of the biggest brands in the industry.

Retailers, manufacturers, and industry professionals from over 100 countries come together to showcase new products, connect, and shape the future of home innovation. I knew this would be a special event, but nothing could have prepared me for the inspiration, creativity, and connections I experienced in Chicago.

I may sometimes use affiliate links on this blog, which means a small commission is earned if you purchase via the link. The price will be the same whether you use the affiliate link or go directly to the vendor’s website using a non-affiliate link.

Three stackable glass bowls with lids in yellow, green, and blue, arranged from smallest to largest.
Pyrex Year Of Color Sculpted (3-Pack)
Three clear Pyrex measuring cups of different sizes are arranged against a white background, displaying measurement markings in red.
Pyrex Essentials (3-Pack)
Three stacked glass bowls with colored lids: green on top, blue in the middle, and red at the bottom, shown against a white background.
Pyrex Sculpted 3-Pack Glass Mixing Bowls

Representing IHA and Building Friendships

A group of nine women posing around a large Pez dispenser display, some seated, others standing. A Snoopy toy sits in the foreground. The setting looks like an exhibition space.
We all love the adorable waffle makers from DASH.

One of the best parts of this experience was representing The International Housewares Association, a not-for-profit trade association that brings together the home and housewares industry and hosts The Inspired Home Show.

Alongside seven other incredible influencers, I had the chance to tour the show, meet brand executives, and form new friendships that I know will last beyond this event.

There’s something so powerful about being surrounded by like-minded individuals who are just as passionate about home and design as I am. We instantly bonded over our shared love for housewares, creativity, and content creation, and I felt so fortunate to be part of such a talented and inspiring group.

Open waffle maker with four cooked waffles inside, each on its own circular grid plate.
DASH Multi Mini Waffle Maker
A red waffle maker labeled "Dash" next to a plate with a stack of four waffles.
DASH Mini Waffle Maker
A mint green mini waffle maker with dinosaur-themed waffle plates, one fried egg, and three waffles: round, dinosaur-shaped, and bunny-shaped.
DASH Multimaker Mini System

A Sneak Peek at the Future of Housewares

Shelves display various Pyrex glassware in assorted colors and shapes, including bowls and baking dishes, with product boxes visible in a store setting.
Pyrex
Display of kitchenware, including pots, bowls, and utensils, in white and teal. Packaging visible on shelves. Poster of a person cooking in the background.
Martha Stewart
Three ceramic pans in purple, green, and beige are displayed on a white surface, viewed from above.
Hamilton Beach

One of the most exciting aspects of The Inspired Home Show is getting a first look at what’s coming to store shelves in the year ahead. With over 2,000 unique brands and 300,000+ products on display, it felt like every significant housewares brand was in attendance, alongside incredible new companies bringing fresh innovation to the industry.

Wicker picnic basket with cutlery, glasses, and napkins inside. A polka dot napkin is draped over the side.
Picnic Time
Silver and black espresso machine brewing into a black tumbler, surrounded by other coffee machines and accessories on a counter.
Cuisinart
Store display featuring various kitchen and household products, including countertop covers, protective mats, and storage solutions, on white slatwall panels.
Contact

We saw stunning new colors, textures, and creative product designs that will make a splash in 2025. From kitchen gadgets and innovative appliances to home organization solutions and sustainable innovations, the level of ingenuity and craftsmanship was remarkable.

A woman stands beside a wall display of colorful, circular fans arranged in rows. She is smiling and pointing at a beige fan.
Elle Home

Many of the products were so new and exclusive that we weren’t allowed to photograph them yet, but trust me—there are some inspiring trends on the horizon!

Stainless steel stock pot set including a large pot, a steamer insert, and a lid, all with polished surfaces and sturdy handles.
Cuisinart Stainless 4-Piece 12-Quart Pasta/Steamer Set
White ceramic pot with two handles and a lid featuring a wooden knob.
MARTHA STEWART Gatwick 7 QT Enamel Cast Iron Dutch Oven
Cuisinart immersion blender set with attachments, including a chopping bowl with vegetables, a whisk, and a blending cup with a pink smoothie.
Cuisinart Immersion Blender and Chopper
A white, round casserole dish with a lid and two handles. The lid has a brass handle and the brand name embossed on it.
Martha Stewart 3.5-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
A white blender with a transparent jar containing fruit and yogurt next to a smaller jar filled with a purple smoothie.
Hamilton Beach Portable Blender
Oval-shaped Hamilton Beach baking dish with a handle and a "Satisfaction Assurance" tag attached.
Hamilton Beach Enameled Cast Iron Fry Pan

Meeting Brand Executives & Industry Leaders

A group of people pose with a large Scrub Daddy display box in a convention center. They appear cheerful and excited.
Aaron Krause, Founder and CEO of Scrub Daddy
Packaging of a yellow Scrub Daddy sponge with a smiling face cut-out, labeled "Lemon Fresh", highlighting its flex texture and scent.
Scrub Daddy Sponge – Lemon Fresh Scent
Box of 8 Scrub Daddy and Scrub Mommy sponges labeled for various household uses.
Scrub Daddy 4 Scrub Daddy Sponges & 4 Scrub Mommy Kitchen Sponges
Packaging of a 3-pack Scrub Daddy sponges in blue, orange, and red. Text highlights features: color coding, non-scratch, no smell, and cleaning efficiency.
4 Pack Damp Dusting Sponge

Another highlight of the show was meeting and connecting with many fantastic brand representatives, executives, and industry professionals. These were the people behind some of the biggest names in housewares, and it was incredible to hear their stories, learn about their products, and discuss where the industry is headed.

We spent almost an hour with Scrub Daddy’s CEO and Founder, Aaron Krause. They have so many amazing products, and his genuine enthusiasm was heartwarming.

From well-known heritage brands to new and emerging companies, the energy at the show was electric. Everyone was excited to showcase their latest innovations and discuss how design, functionality, and sustainability are shaping the future of home products.

A group of ten women posing together in front of a "gia global excellence" backdrop on a patterned carpet.
Clara Haneberg and Laiza Cors from @Embello_inc, @inspiringkitchen, @sincerelysarad, @poshinprogress, @dreamingofhomemaking, @inspiringkitchen, @lifeisnetterqthome, @jordecor, @home_ec_op

It was inspiring to see how much thought and care goes into every product—from the smallest kitchen tool to large home appliances, each brand had a unique story.

Why The Inspired Home Show is So Important

Shelves displaying various glass kitchenware including bowls and baking dishes in pastel colors. Packaging includes Pyrex branding.
Pyrex

This show isn’t just about products—it’s about connections, innovation, and the future of home living. Each year, it brings together approximately 30,000 home and housewares professionals, making it one of the most influential events in the industry.

  • It’s a hub for discovery, where retailers and buyers find new products and brands to bring to market.
  • It’s a trendsetter offering insights into design, color, and functionality trends that will shape the next year of home goods.
  • It’s a global marketplace, with attendees from over 100 countries, making it a truly international event.

For someone like me—who has spent years creating content about home, kitchen, and lifestyle products—attending and participating in this show was a dream come true.

A set of glass food storage containers with colorful lids in various shapes and sizes, including round and rectangular.
Pyrex Simply Store 9-Pack Mixed Sized Glass Food Storage Set
Three stacked, rectangular glass food storage containers with pastel green lids.
Pyrex Year of Color (3-Pack)
Stacked food storage containers in various sizes with blue lids and rectangular green lids, made of transparent material.
Colors by Pyrex (6-Pack, Full Set)

Reflecting on an Unforgettable Experience

Person in a white blazer and floral skirt standing next to a large, monochrome framed artwork in a marble-tiled hallway.

As I left Chicago, I couldn’t help but reflect on how lucky I was to be part of such an incredible event. The opportunity to meet fellow influencers, connect with industry leaders, and get a front-row seat to the future of housewares was genuinely unforgettable.

I walked away from The Inspired Home Show feeling inspired, excited, and ready to share everything I learned. While I can’t show you all the fantastic new products yet, I can promise that 2025 will be an exciting year for home and housewares!

I’m so grateful to Embello for this opportunity and to the fantastic brands and professionals who welcomed us into their world. I can’t wait to see where these new connections and experiences take me next!

My Latest Project

My Latest Project

Cross-stitched tapestry featuring the name "Charlotte" at the top, ornamental patterns, and a decorated Christmas tree with a bow.

I am almost done!

I had hoped to finish Charlotte’s stocking by March, but I need one more week.

For your information, I bought the stockings and threads and learned how to create these decorative stitches at A Stich in Time, which is nearby in San Marino, CA.

Doesn’t it look amazing?

A partially completed cross-stitch project featuring a bear with a tree in the background, surrounded by intricate floral patterns in pink, red, and green tones on a mesh fabric.

Graham’s stocking is ready to go, and I can’t wait to start. I promise to share it in a few weeks.

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    My Biggest Challenge This Week

    Stainless steel oven with vent hood and stove, next to white cabinetry and a window. Cookie jar and cooking utensils are on the counter. Wooden floor beneath.

    I am still dealing with repairs in both our South Pasadena and Ventura homes. Aargh!

    Our new Viking oven arrived, but the dishwasher couldn’t be installed as we had copper pipes, and apparently, a plumber needs to add a valve or something

    In Ventura, we have an InstHot leak, and one of our refrigerators stopped cooling. Seriously! The good news is that both are covered under warranty, and parts have been ordered. The bad news is that I need to drive you to Ventura for the day to hopefully get everything repaired.

    Tapered Apothecary Jar

    Round Apothecary Jar

    Short Round Apothecary Jar

    This week's to do list.
    • Buy plants for this spring’s kitchen garden.
    • Plant the garden.
    • Finish Charlotte’s stocking!
    Three bunny-shaped cookies with pink and green sugar coating on a white stand, surrounded by small yellow flowers and a pink checkered napkin.

    You are going to love this Peeps Cookie Recipe.

    Whole wheat wraps filled with chicken, lettuce, and Caesar dressing are neatly arranged on a white platter with skewers, on a striped tablecloth.

    These Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps – Easy and Delicious are a must try!

    Close-up of a hand turning the dial on a washing machine to select the "Cottons" cycle. Various settings are labeled, including "Delicate/Silk," "Mixed Load," and "Wool.

    Everything You Need to Know About the Delicate Cycle on Your Washer

    Modern living room with abstract artwork on white walls, light wood floors, and a beige sectional sofa. A potted plant sits beside a stool near a window. Skylights provide natural light.

    This Bright Terrace Transformation from Desire to Inspire is wonderful.

    A cozy living room with dark walls, a teal couch, a white fireplace, and a modern coffee table. Two large windows allow natural light. Art and plants decorate the space.

    How to Soundproof an Apartment: 9 Tips for a More Peaceful Space

    Bunny Cake Stand

    A set of nested heart-shaped cookie cutters, perfect for crafting delightful flower cookies, made of shiny metal and beautifully arranged in a stack.

    Cute Bunny Head Cookie Cutter

    Set of Ann Clark cookie cutters and decorated cookies, featuring delightful flower cookies, a butterfly, sheep, carrot, Easter egg, bunny, and cross. A handy recipe booklet rests in the background.

    Easter Cookie Cutters 7-Pc Set

    And what a week it was!

    • Summer Pizza Night on the Back Porch and Patio
      Pizza Night on the Porch and Patio
      Tonight is the perfect evening for a spring pizza night on the back porch and patio. I wanted to find a unique location for a fun dinner, and this is the perfect spot! I wanted to have a fun pizza night…
    • A round white plate displaying various oval-shaped items with red, gold, and pink crackled patterns. The plate is surrounded by pink leaves on a wooden surface.
      DIY Clay and Metallic Foil Easter Eggs
      With Easter just around the corner this week, I decided to create something special and truly unique for my spring décor—handmade clay and metallic foil Easter eggs. These little works of art are soft, pastel, and subtly shimmery, and they’re a…
    • Assortment of liquor bottles and elegant, textured glass tumblers on a gold bar cart, with soft-focus background.
      How to Style a Bar Cart
      For years, I have tried to make our living room more welcoming for guests and family, and adding a bar cart might be precisely what we need. My approach to styling the bar cart assumes we will use it, so I…
    • Yellow Labrador retriever lying on the floor next to a stack of wrapped gifts with red ribbons.
      A Heartbreaking Week and Sunday Morning Coffee
      This week, we said goodbye to our sweet white Labrador, Sport, and our hearts are heavy with grief and gratitude. He was twelve and a half years old, and in that time, he filled our home and hearts with more love,…
    • Gift boxes wrapped with paper featuring dinosaur outlines and a child's photo, tied with bright blue ribbons.
      The Cutest Custom Wrapping Paper DIY
      If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I love a creative project—the custom wrapping paper featuring my grandson is so cute! The custom wrapping paper is personal, festive, and just enough extra. So when our family planned a…
    • Cotton/linen napkins embroidered with flowers and colored glassware, a brie maker, and a white vase with faux flowers.
      Spring Cocktail Napkins with Flower Embroidery DIY
      I am very excited about these DIY spring cocktail napkins with flower embroidery. They are the perfect budget-friendly spring craft. Cocktail napkins are an essential part of any gathering or party. They add a touch of elegance to the setting and…
    This light blue textured pillow with ruffled edges is the perfect addition to your home, embodying a cozy DIY Easter craft vibe.

    Light Blue Cotton Pillow with Ruffled Trim

    A wooden elevated planter box perfect for a kitchen garden, boasting colorful flowers on top and gardening tools neatly stored on the lower shelf. It features wheels for easy mobility and includes a foldable side table for added convenience.

    ketive Raised Garden Bed

    White Ceramic Deviled Egg Plate

    17″ Easter Wreath

    Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer

    A table setting features a napkin folded into bunny ears, cradling a brown egg on a white plate. Amidst this DIY Easter craft are woven rabbit ear napkin rings and multicolored eggs scattered in the background, creating a festive and inviting atmosphere.

    Easter Napkin Rings

    Wooden kitchen utensils, including spoons and a fork, placed on a wooden surface.

    Although this article is titled The Right Way to Clean Wooden Spoons, there is so much more to learn here!

    This week, I am sharing a lot of great spring ideas.

    • Mixing New and Vintage Decor in the Beach House
    • Hand-Painted Plastic Easter Eggs DIY
    • A Quick and Easy Primary Bedroom Makeover
    • My Favorite Easter Brunch Recipe Ideas
    • Seven Ideas for a Kitchen Island
    • A New DIY: Clay Easter Eggs

    12pcs Vintage Style Paper Mache Egg Hanging Ornaments Easter Decoration

    Cuisinart Immersion Blender and Chopper

    Paper napkins featuring blue illustrations of rabbits, birds, and various flowers and plants make the perfect touch for your DIY Easter craft projects.

    50 Pcs Blue White Easter Paper Napkins

    You Might Also Need…

    Lace Edged Cloth Napkins, Set of 12

    White Ceramic Baking Dish Set, Set of 3

    Wooden Salad Bowl and Servers

    Vegetable & Flower Wicker Basket

    Kitchen Garden Revival by Nicole Johnsey Burke 

    Heirloom Vegetable Seeds 

    A crocheted pillow, a perfect DIY Easter craft, features a geometric pattern of squares in shades of brown, yellow, and cream.

    Square Cotton Crocheted Pillow

    Artificial Bird Nests, 6 pieces

    Square pillow with an intricate floral pattern in orange, pink, and yellow hues on a textured fabric—a perfect pop of color for your DIY Easter craft setup.

    Creative Co-Op Vintage Inspired Floral Block Pattern

    Shop My Home
    Amazon Best Sellers
    A Home to Share
    A Home to Share, by Leslie Saeta

    This Week’s Top Sellers

    We shared many of our favorite home items this week, and here are the top sellers!

    Collage of Amazon home products including clothing, headphones, curtains, vases, baskets, smart plug, phone stand, trackers, vacuum, hand blender, dog, and smartwatches. "Last Week's Favorite Deals.
    SHOP HERE

    You can pin the image below to your boards on Pinterest (click the Pin button in the top left corner) or follow me on Pinterest!

    Person standing behind a decor sign with "Celebrating 125" in front of a blue mosaic backdrop at The Inspired Home Show.

    For more real-time updates, follow me on Instagram @My100YearOldHome

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    5 Comments

    1. I hope they come out with better lids on pyrex. They always crack right where the seams come together. I always had to buy new lids and they cost almost as much as the product itself. Always washed by hand. I just don’t buy them anymore. With that said the new colors are beautiful. Have a wonderful day.

      Reply

    3. Ugh-appliance repair. I feel your pain.
      I have a 1915 Craftsman house-and I want to keep it original. So-no place in the kitchen for refrigerators. So-service porch solution is 3 kitchen aid drawer undercounted frig/and one freezer with ice maker (ouch $$)
      All was a delight until 4 weeks ago the ice maker stopped working. I have an extended warranty, I called and a serviceman came right out-and we never heard from him again. Called the insurance-service man # 2 came out-did not know how to repair it. Call again, service man # 3-who we amost kicked out of the house due to some outrageous and rude comments( such as “I kill dogs”, hence call to insurance and now await serviceman(just send a woman-she would be able to fix it) #4. Help. Send help.

      Reply

    4. Sounds like you had a very fun and exciting time in Chicago. Can’t wait to see all the new things coming out and loved the colors!! Hoping the repairs go smoothly.

      Reply

    5. Wow what an experience for you Leslie. And only one of eight social media influencers selected to attend – that is pretty impressive but they only pick the best you know. So very happy for you. Honestly, what a ‘dangerous’ place to be when you love housewares etc. Looking forward to hearing all about your trip to Chicago and yet you still have time to cross stitch a Christmas Stocking among other things. Congratulations.

      Reply

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