OKC Home + Outdoor Living Show 2024
By: J. David Chapman/February 1, 2024
The temperatures had been below freezing for at least five days straight, and ice and snow were forecast, but Oklahomans flocked to the Bennett Event Center at the OKC Fairgrounds exploring new ideas in home improvement.
Home sales are down, but attendance at home and garden shows around the country remains strong, as more people are staying in their homes and remodeling to fit their needs and leveraging their low-interest loan instead of opting for a new home with a higher interest rate.
The pandemic changed the way people relate to their homes. Many were taken away from their gyms forcing a workout program at home. Many were taken away from their offices forcing them to work from home. Many congregations were forced out of their place of worship and held small group worship at home. Many started cooking and eating from home more than ever and many created outdoor oasis spaces in their backyards. By all accounts, many of the new practices have become habits and the changes to their homes are proof.
My attention, as I walked the show visiting with exhibitors (which numbered over 200) and visitors, was drawn to booths and exhibits helping customers organize their home and lives, those helping create outdoor spaces mimicking those found at resorts, and a pet plaza with collars, accessories, and specialized care items for dogs and cats. I found the Homegrown Marketplace fascinating, creating a place where shoppers could buy local artisans’ handcrafted items, including specialty home décor, food, and art pieces. The Wine Village exhibit was interesting showcasing award-winning wines from five local wineries available for sampling and purchase. The headliner for the show was Ashley Basnight, from HGTIV’s Battle on the Beach and NBC’s Making It, on stage giving attendees confidence to do their own woodworking projects.
Pools and hot tubs continue to be popular considerations for those with spring fever with plenty of time to have a new pool before summer. Last, but not least, in this region of the U.S. you can bet there were several companies selling every type of storm shelter you can image. It was obvious from the excitement of this show that I am not the only one ready for summer.
– J. David Chapman is professor of finance and real estate at the University of Central Oklahoma (jchapman7@uco.edu)