Business of Design ® | Interior Designers, Decorators, Architects & Landscapers

Join Kimberley Seldon on the Business of Design podcast as she explores the powerful strategies of upselling and cross-selling to enhance your business with existing clients. Discover how these techniques can transform your projects into extraordinary experiences, boosting both client satisfaction and your bottom line. In this episode, you will learn: - The difference between upselling and cross-selling and why they matter. - How to confidently suggest premium products and services without feeling pushy. - The role of integrity in sales and how to propose upgrades that clients will value. - Practical examples of turning small projects into significant opportunities. - Strategies to grow your business profitably without additional time investment. Tune in to unlock the potential of your current client relationships and elevate your design business to new heights.

In this episode of Business of Design®, Kimberley chats with Erin Gates, interior designer and author of Elements of Timeless Style. Erin is all about creating spaces that not only look great today but evolve beautifully over time. Whether you're designing your own forever home or creating a client home that stands the test of time, this episode is packed with valuable insights. In this episode we learn: - the importance of timeless design that evolves with the homeowner - why a smooth, collaborative process is essential - the emotional side of building a home and making sure the design reflects the story of the people who live there - how to embrace flexibility in design—things will change, and that’s okay - why you should invest in quality over quantity when it comes to your team and materials - creating a space that feels like a forever home, even if you’re not sure if you’ll stay forever

For many of us, the hardest lessons are the ones that stick, but why not skip the struggle and learn from someone who's been there? On today's episode, designer Diana Wagenbach dishes out five solid takeaways that will change how you run your business. First up, it's not about waiting for the perfect system—just start with what you've got and let it evolve. Diana also reveals why time-tracking is a game-changer for profitability (hint: you’re probably undercharging without even knowing it!). She also dives into the power of saying ‘no’ to the wrong projects and the magic of creating clear, repeatable processes for your team. Finally, Diana drops a simple yet powerful truth… be nice. It’s the secret ingredient to building lasting relationships and growing your business. Don't miss this episode—it's packed with no-nonsense advice that will give you the boost you need right now. In this episode we learn: - don’t wait for the perfect time, start where you are - the cost of underestimating Time and Tracking Early On — How failing to track hours and project scope from the start led to undervaluing work — and why consistent time tracking is critical for accurate estimating and protecting profitability. - avoid saying yes too soon (and too often) - hiring without defined roles or expectations leads to costly missteps - doing it all isn’t a badge of honor

In this episode of Business of Design®, we sit down with Jenn Vandermeer, a veteran interior designer who’s now making waves on the supplier side of the industry. After years of applying the BOD™ strategies in her own design practice, Jenn has joined Aquavato, a world-leader in plumbing supplier, with a mission to help interior designers thrive while making more money. Jenn shares how we can deliver concierge-level service without sacrificing profit. From navigating MAP pricing to forging powerful vendor relationships, In this episode we learn: - understanding the difference between MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) and MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) can change the way you approach pricing and profit in your design projects - trade pricing doesn’t mean trade-offs - building strong partnerships with your suppliers can help you avoid costly mistakes, speed up sourcing, and improve your project outcomes - design is about offering solutions, relationships, and exceptional value - concierge-level service can be profitable - consider using disbursements as an additional way to profit from your sourcing efforts while keeping your business transparent.

Ever wonder what happens when interior design meets entrepreneurship, creativity, and a dash of audacity? In this episode, the dynamic design duo behind Park & Oak share their ten-year journey from solo ventures to a thriving design, retail, and event empire. They’ll reveal how they turned a shared passion into multiple income streams without following a traditional roadmap. If you’ve longed to embrace risk, pivot when needed, and build a brand that’s bigger than you, then this conversation is packed with real-world lessons on collaboration, scaling creatively, and making bold decisions. In this episode we learn: - why the path to your ideal business isn’t always straight - how rewarding it can be to create multiple revenue streams to complement your design business. - it’s ok to jump in, experiment, fail, and refine - when you partner with people whose strengths complement yours—synergy can take a small idea and turn it into a thriving enterprise. - why a design experience might land you your next, best clients - it’s ok to roll up your sleeves, learn as you go, and make mistakes

Yes, interior design professionals can and should partner up with landscape architects to elevate their projects and deliver even more value to clients. Landscape architect, Steve Griggs, has more than 40 years transforming backyards into sanctuaries. He’s convinced interior designers should include his skillset on projects; integrating outdoor spaces into the design process from the start In this episode we learn: - when interior designers, builders, and landscape architects work together from the start, the result is always stronger - outdoor spaces are an extension of your interior design - charge to make a profit; clients will pay for your expertise - if you're dealing with a blank canvas, start with the hardscape to lay a solid foundation for everything else - sometimes it's better to postpone the project rather than rush in with an insufficient budget.

What if your “creative brain” feels like 42 browser tabs open—none playing music you like? Kimberley chats with Skye Waterson, founder of Unconventional Organisation, about why ADHD-style thinking is so common among entrepreneurs and designers. They dive into why traditional productivity advice often fails creative minds, and how understanding your brain (diagnosis or not) can help you finally get things done. Expect science-backed tips, relatable laughs, and real strategies for working with your brain, not against it—plus, why rewards like ice cream should come before the work. In this episode we learn: - ADHD strategies benefit everyone—especially creative entrepreneurs. - Start with a brain dump, then narrow down to what’s truly urgent. - Reward yourself first to create momentum (yes, treats count). - Break big tasks into micro-steps with clear, easy instructions. - Use dopamine wisely—your playlist or workspace matters. - You’re not lazy, your system might just be broken. - Give yourself permission to work differently—your brain’s not wrong, it’s wired for creativity.

In this episode, Advocate in Chief, Kimberley Seldon, shares the story of my personal burnout moment—right in the middle of what should have been a dream project. She opens up about the emotional toll of saying yes too often, working past capacity, and losing the spark that made her fall in love with design in the first place. You’ll hear about her efforts to shift from hustle to sustainability and how that helped her reclaim her energy and restructure her business. In this episode we learn: - burnout doesn’t always look like a breakdown—it can happen quietly, even in beautiful spaces. - sustainable change often starts with one small but bold decision. - defining your true capacity (and honoring it) is a business strategy, not a luxury. - raising your rates can reduce your workload and increase your revenue. - a signature process saves time, builds confidence, and elevates the client experience. - protecting your energy is not selfish—it’s what allows your creativity and business to thrive. Learn more to transform your business, and your life, at https://businessofdesign.com

Let’s talk about a topic that gives many designers the cold sweats—sales. Offering your services authentically is not pushy—it’s service. It’s not ick, it’s sales. From handling rejection to reviving client pipelines and learning how to spot subtle buying signals, this conversation is packed with real strategies that feel good and get results. Whether your projects are booming or business feels a bit slow, it’s time to reframe your mindset, reconnect with past clients, and approach sales with clarity and confidence. In this episode we learn: - Sales is not sleazy—it's service. You're not "convincing"; you're solving a problem your client already has. - Reframe rejection. A "no" is often just a "not yet." It’s your job to follow up respectfully and leave the door open. - Understand your client's “convincer strategy.” People need to see or hear something multiple times before they say yes—so follow up strategically. - Spot buying signals. Comments, objections, or questions can all indicate interest. Learn to recognize and respond without fear. - Don’t ignore past clients. It’s easier to earn repeat business than find new clients—reach out with genuine value and suggestions. - Your network is gold. Happy clients will refer you—if you ask. Don’t rob them of the joy of helping you. - Soft selling works. Ask permission to make suggestions and always offer a next step without pressure. - Watch your email tone. Reduce “I” statements and shift to client-focused language with questions that invite engagement. Learn more to transform your business at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Want to handle difficult clients and challenging situations with total authority? Well then, channel your inner 90’s action star (think Steven Segal)! Using a simple and effective technique, you can diffuse any challenging situation and turn an uncomfortable exchange into an affirming and positive step forward in your relationship. The bonus: this technique works with friends and family too. In this episode we learn: - how to diffuse a bad situation that is escalating. - stress-reducing strategies that will keep you in top-shape for the challenging work you do. - why hiring a coaching and/or psychologist is a sign of strength. - 5 reasons you absolutely should charge more money. Get the systems you need to attract ideal clients at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

In today’s episode, we’re cutting through the fluff and getting real about profit, pricing, and what it actually takes to run a design business that pays you well and feels good to run. Interior designer Lindsay Kjellberg shares how she went from nonstop hustle and just $30K in profit on $800K in revenue… to working 30 hours a week, taking vacations, and pocketing $250K a year (without working harder!)  Spoiler: joining Business of Design® was a total game-changer. We’re diving into the smart decisions she made—like charging for consultations, tracking all her time, and raising rates with confidence. If you're ready to work smarter, earn more, and finally feel in control of your business, you’re going to love this one. In this episode we learn: - profit matters more than revenue - charging for consultations attracts serious clients and boosts conversions - billing for every minute of your time can double your income without raising rates - higher rates and smarter project selection create more freedom and less stress - mindset shifts—like valuing your time and ignoring outside opinions—fuel real growth Transform your business at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Business of Design® is in full money mode with the launch of a 6-week Financial Intensive, kicking off October 16th. In this episode, Cheryl Horne, Director of Operations, shares real-world strategies and practical advice to help you take immediate control of your business finances—no matter where you’re starting from. Whether you’re struggling to price confidently, unsure how to track profitability, or simply tired of feeling overwhelmed by the numbers, this episode offers tools you can implement today to move your business toward long-term success. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why understanding your numbers is the foundation of a thriving design business • Practical tips to build financial clarity and confidence • How setting time limits on tasks improves productivity and profitability • The power of tracking your billable hours—and regularly reviewing them • Why separating revenue streams boosts both insight and income • The key difference between salary and profit—and why it matters • How to create a system of regular financial check-ins that drive smart decisions 🎯 Ready to go deeper? Join the upcoming Financial Intensive beginning October 16th and start building the systems that will lead to lasting financial success. Register at https://businessofdesign.com

In this episode, Kimberley gets real about her money management journey—yes, even the messy parts—and shares how getting clear on your numbers can be a total game-changer. Will Leonard introduces Zena, a smart new pre-funded spending card that makes tracking expenses way less painful (and dare we say...kind of satisfying?). From expense categories to regular money check-ins, financial visibility isn’t just about bookkeeping—it’s a secret weapon for growth. If you’ve been avoiding your finances, this episode might just change your mind. In this episode we learn: - how centralizing your business purchases can tame the chaos and bring clarity - why a pre-funded spending card like Zena might just be your new favorite business tool - how organizing expenses by project can save you serious time (and sanity) on bookkeeping - the surprising way expense categories can actually boost your bottom line - how real-time tracking keeps your financial house in order—without the stress - a smarter, calmer way to prep for tax season (bye-bye, last-minute panic) Learn more to grow your business at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

As an interior design professional, you create beauty, function, and transformation for your clients—but are you building the same for yourself? In this episode we dig into the powerful connection between your sense of worth and your ability to build true wealth. If you’ve ever questioned what you should charge, struggled with confidence in business, or felt stuck on the income treadmill, this episode will shift your perspective—and help you design a business as intentional as your interiors. In this episode we learn: - why undercharging isn’t just a pricing issue—it’s a self-worth issue - how wealth isn’t just about money, but about time, freedom, and choice - the hidden costs of burnout and overdelivering - practical ways to increase your profit margins without compromising your creativity - how to reframe your mindset around money, value, and success as a creative Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

A website, like any great interior design project, needs a solid strategy, a thoughtful process, and an eye for aesthetics. In this episode, website strategist Elle Kwan joins us to unpack the essentials of building a high-performing website for your interior design business. Elle shares smart strategies for creating content that resonates with your dream clients and satisfies Google’s search engine algorithms. From clarifying your services to choosing the right website platform, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you attract, engage, and convert. You’ll learn: - What a strong website strategy looks like - How to speak to both clients and Google robots - Why clear service definitions are key - Pros and cons of popular website platforms - Why starting small with a DIY site is okay - How to stay focused and trust yourself through the ups and downs of running a business Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Our brains are wired to filter out information that is unnecessary; that’s why marketing fails so often. To get through the filter and get your client’s attention, you’ll have to do something radical—you’ll have to get different. Author and entrepreneur advocate, Michael Michalowicz shares his solution to the highly ignorable marketing trap.    In this episode we learn: - organize clients by revenue spent and their crush factor (how much you love working with them) - find out where your ideal clients converge and market there - avoid being highly ignorable, approach clients in a way that gets their attention - perform your own R&D (rip off and duplicate) - be the true you; lean into it - be strategic about the mediums your market in (e.g., blog, tv, print ad, Facebook ad, etc.) - also, be strategic about the method (e.g., gift basket of cookies vs. gift basket of tequila) introduce keys (signifier that tells you if the marketing piece is working) Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Daniela Furtado is back and this time we put her on the spot by rapid firing the top marketing questions interior design professionals ask us at BOD™. As usual, she is full of insights and great suggestions. In this episode we learn: - what quantifies a good marketing return - how to build a referral strategy that works - how to manage a mix of offerings on your website - should your prices appear on your website - talk about money early and often Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

What are Business of Design® members thinking about these days? Since Director of Operations, Cheryl Horne, speaks to members on a daily basis, she’s got answers. Cheryl and Kimberley dish about smart ways to increase current project sizes, how to determine how many jobs is the right number for you and why it’s so important to ignore your inner worrier when it comes to billing clients. In this episode we learn: • key ways to determine which projects are most profitable • why it's beneficial to train new staff with BOD™ modules • three profit levers to pull when your business is in a famine era • what happens when a client wants to shop themselves • which course should you take first when you are a new employee

Slow season got you feeling... stuck? You're not alone. In this episode, our Advocate-in-Chief  shares 5 smart moves every interior designer can make when work slows down. From reconnecting with past clients to finally creating that operations manual, these are actionable, empowering steps to help you emerge from any lull stronger, sharper, and ready for whatever’s next. Whether you're in a rut or just need a reset, this is the pep talk you didn’t know you needed. In this episode we learn: - why former clients are your most valuable leads—and how to reconnect without being salesy - what goes into a killer operations manual and how it can change your business - systems you finally have time to implement that will pay off all year long - how to use slow seasons to sharpen your skills and expand your value - yes, it’s ok to raise your rates even when business feels slow - how mindset shifts during slow periods can lead to powerful breakthroughs Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Do more of what you love and less of what you don’t love. Sounds like a good plan, doesn’t it? Of course it does. It’s a simple concept that’s sometimes challenging to implement says our guest expert, Brad Farris. In this episode we learn: • stay in your zone of genius by delegating what you aren’t good at • the boss should have the fewest emails, not the most Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership