There are too many interior designers who aren't making a good living out there today. And the most common reason for that is they aren't charging enough for their services. It's so frustrating to hear from designers that they feel like they want to throw in the towel and say ENOUGH! And usually,...

I know. Chatting about profit margins is so exciting! Ok, I jest. But, the end of the year is coming sooner than you think and I want you to get in the best mindset to review your business for the year!

What are Profit margins?

Profit margins are confusing! Often, designers think that they're...

Selections are so key for successful projects. And today, even with luxury clients, we have balance their budget against what we know is best for a project. That's really important when it comes to bigger investments like windows, counters, and floors! Last week we talked about the pros and cons...

One of the most costly mistakes I see in design is selecting the wrong material for a countertop. Even the most experienced designers can find themselves in trouble, especially when the client is set on something like white marble in a kid's bathroom. Here are some countertop pros and cons for...

Effective communication is the cornerstone of a successful project. It’s the secret sauce that helps you get a project done on time, on budget, and gives you a finished project that makes your clients happy! While there are a lot of factors that determine a successful project, if you...

Being a business owner is rewarding, but it can also be so so hard, right?! There are days when it seems like the stress is going to just. Be. Too. Much. Our jobs are complicated, the clients can be demanding, and there aren't enough hours in the day. So how do we combat the stress? I have 4...

It's an interesting time for interior design. There are people trying to sell what we do on apps, through edesign, and with lower and lower pricing. But that's the wrong way to sell a service!! As we all know, interior design isn't just furniture layouts and paint colors. We offer a luxury...

Neutral paint colors should be so simple, right?! After all, white is white. OK. All kidding aside, there are literally hundreds of whites and thousands of neutral paint colors out there, and it can make your head spin to choose the right one. I have 5 go-to neutral paints that work for me EVERY...

As interior designers, we know that there's good design and then there's GREAT design! And the great rooms always include custom looks, something that makes them stand out from all the others. But, custom can mean expensive, and sometimes you just have to talk your client into spending the extra...

If you are selecting new cabinetry, what is paint-grade vs. stain-grade wood? Is it a special type of wood? Actually, it is not a type of wood.

What Does Paint Grade Mean?

If you select to paint your cabinets, they will be made with “paint-grade” wood, which really means a wood...

Yeah! You have a new client who has contracted you for a design project. That means new possibilities and opportunities to flex your creative wings in new ways.

Since you never get a second chance to make a first impression, it’s important to start this relationship on the right foot. The...

Why Organize Your Client?

All the decisions that need to be made when you are doing a new build or a huge remodel is overwhelming to most clients. Now, add trying to remember what was decided and by whom- you are talking major stress! To help my clients overpower overwhelm (like the...