Home Stage Schedule

Focused on all things inside the home, the HOME STAGE features expert-led sessions on interior design,  styling tips, renovation techniques, entertaining in the home, and free hands-on workshops. 

11:00 a.m. - The Art of Hiring Home Contractors with BBB

Join Lee Anne Lanigan, Director of Consumer Relations and Outreach at the Better Business Bureau, Central & SE Ohio, for an interactive session on mastering the art of hiring home contractors! Discover the secrets to spotting top-notch professionals, navigating red flags, and ensuring a stress-free home improvement journey.  All delivered during an engaging talk packed with tips and tricks, because finding and signing with the perfect contractor should be as exciting as creating your dream home!

1:00 p.m. - The Cheesecake Girl with Samantha Strange

The Cheesecake Girl is a Columbus-based bakery renowned for its commitment to local ingredients and made-from-scratch baked goods. Founded by Samantha Strange, a Dublin, Ohio native, the bakery began as a fun hobby in her parents' kitchen in 2016. Today, The Cheesecake Girl boasts multiple locations across Columbus, including Center Street Market in Hilliard, Budd Dairy Food Hall in Italian Village, and Wexner Medical Center on campus.

2:00 p.m. - Lowe's Pro Painting Tips with Sherwin-Williams

This presentation offers expert advice and practical tips for achieving professional-quality painting results. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a DIY enthusiast, these tips will help you tackle any painting project with confidence and precision.

4:00 p.m. - Puppy Yoga with Franklin County Dog Shelter

Puppy Yoga isn’t about perfect poses. It’s about joy, relaxation, and soaking up all the puppy love! Enjoy a gentle, all-levels yoga session where stress melts away, smiles come easily, and puppy selfies are highly encouraged. Led by Cheryl of Peace Yoga, a certified instructor and beloved Columbus teacher since 2013, this class combines mindful movement with a heart for animals and community. The Franklin County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center will provide adorable, adoptable pups who will wander from mat to mat, “assist” your poses, and shower you with kisses.

2:00 p.m. - Beyond Beautiful: Top Kitchen Design Trends for 2026 and the Psychology of Better Living

Explore how combining thoughtful design, behavioral psychology, and refined aesthetics creates kitchens that feel effortless, function beautifully, and elevate daily life. Angela Bonfante will share the top kitchen design trends for 2026 while highlighting how intentional design choices can enhance the way we live, work, and gather in the heart of the home.

3:00 p.m. - Designer Style on a DIY Budget with Annie Williams @champagne.chaos

Think beautiful home transformations require a massive renovation budget? Think again. Join DIY and design influencer Annie Williams of @Champagne.Chaos as she shares her favorite budget-friendly projects, designer-inspired hacks, and creative solutions that deliver big results without breaking the bank.

4:00 p.m. - Lowe's Pro Painting Tips with Sherwin-Williams

This presentation offers expert advice and practical tips for achieving professional-quality painting results. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a DIY enthusiast, these tips will help you tackle any painting project with confidence and precision.

11:00 a.m. - ASID Design Excellence Awards Presentation

Celebrate excellence in interior design with the 2026 ASID Design Excellence Awards. This special presentation honors outstanding projects and professionals who are shaping the future of design. From innovative residential spaces to impactful commercial environments, discover the creativity, craftsmanship, and vision that define award-winning design in our region.

12:00 p.m. - PRIVATE EVENT - ASID Design Excellence Awards: Cocktail Hour

This is a private event for ASID and their designers. ASID designers are welcome to stay and connect with fellow designers, industry partners, and award recipients while enjoying cocktails, conversation, and networking in a relaxed setting. Raise a glass to the creativity, innovation, and achievements that are shaping the future of design in our region

1:00 p.m. - 2026 Dispatch Backyard Garden Awards Winner's Ceremony

The Central Ohio Home & Design Show will showcase and announce the winners of the Dispatch Backyard Garden Awards selected by a judging panel of Ohio State Master Gardener Volunteers. Winners will be featured in an upcoming edition of the Dispatch AtHome section and get to take home prizes up to $3000 in Ohio Mulch gift cards.

2:00 p.m. - Special Guest Appearance by Carson Kressley

Join Emmy Award–winning TV personality, designer, and style expert Carson Kressley for a lively fireside chat featuring career stories, design inspiration, personal style advice, and an audience Q&A. Expect plenty of wit, wisdom, and behind-the-scenes moments from one of television’s most recognizable personalities.

3:00 p.m. - Exclusive Social Hour with Carson Kressley

Join Carson Kressley after his fireside chat for an intimate social hour featuring light appetizers, one drink ticket, and the opportunity to mix, mingle, and take photos. Tickets are $30 per person; valid ID required for the purchase of alcoholic beverages.