Design Biz Survival Guide

Today, we’re thrilled to host Julia Bocchese of Julia Renee Consulting, a firm specializing in SEO and Pinterest strategies for creative businesses, including interior designers. In this episode, Julia breaks down the unique power of Pinterest and shares actionable ways design professionals can use the platform to expand visibility, drive traffic to their websites, and strengthen their brand messaging. From Pinterest’s role as a visual search engine to its ability to enhance SEO, this episode is packed with insights and strategies you won’t want to miss. Show Highlights: The Pinterest Advantage: Why Pinterest is a visual search engine, not just another social media platform. Boosting Visibility: Strategies for using Pinterest to drive meaningful traffic to your website. SEO Synergy: How Pinterest activity can directly enhance your website’s SEO rankings. Public vs. Private Boards: The best way to use both to build relevance and showcase your style. Content Strategy: Tips for creating Pinterest-friendly content, from keywords to graphics. Notable Quotes: “Pinterest is a search engine. It’s not about followers or likes; it’s about using the right keywords and connecting with people actively searching for what you offer.” “If someone pins your image, it’s automatically linked back to your website. That’s a huge benefit for driving traffic and boosting your SEO.” “Instagram posts disappear in 24 to 48 hours, but a good pin can drive traffic for months or even years.” “Think of Pinterest as an extension of your portfolio. It’s a way to share your vision for styles that may not yet be in your online portfolio.” Supporting Resources: Learn More About Julia Bocchese: Visit Julia’s Website Follow Julia on Instagram: @juliareneeconsulting Sponsor Links: Design Manager https://www.designmanager.com Daniel House Club https://danielhouse.club/pages/dbsg Follow & Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Today, we welcome Molly Rose – a professional interior photographer and public relations partner for interior designers and architects. In this episode, Molly breaks down her 10-step strategy to help you create project campaigns that support your overarching brand and provide content throughout the design process. We discuss how a combination of micro storytelling, DIY photography, and a structured posting schedule can truly enhance your messaging and your PR strategy for each project. Heads up – have your iPhone ready for a camera settings tutorial that will change the game for you! Show Highlights: Molly’s experience interviewing Rick in EP78 of Design Biz Survival Guide Podcast Molly’s 10-step strategy for creating project campaigns Tips for using a phone camera effectively for interior photography How to document and share content from the inquiry phase of a new project Linking content together from different project phases Organizing and utilizing content across various social media platforms Documenting client reactions and the design reveal The role of media in validating designers and their work How to use AI to promote your design style   How to use your phone for interior photography: Settings → Search camera → Enable Apple ProRAW → Ensure grid and lens correction are on → Open camera → Portrait mode → Click the upward arrow to adjust exposure → Drag exposure down to -1.0 to -1.3 → Adjust aperture (F) between 5.0 to 5.6 for wide shots, 2.0 to 2.8 for detail shots.   Notable Quotes: “Approach your work with the best intentions. It will get in front of somebody who will love it, and their appreciation might surprise you. And who doesn’t like it also might surprise you. But don’t be too worried about conforming to a certain approach because one size doesn’t fit all. Everyone has a place at the table.” – Molly Rose “Use AI to show stuff that you would do. Generate images to show stuff that you would do.” – Molly Rose   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Feature Guest Website – http://mollyrosephoto.co/ Design Stories Workbook – http://mollyrosephoto.co/stories Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/mollyrose.photo/   Sponsor Links: James and James Trade Program Design Manager

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome back Meredith Huck of House of Huck, a full-service design studio based in Milford, Connecticut. In this episode, we revisit our original conversation with Meredith from Episode #92, where she shared her newly launched design business and the strategy behind its success. Fast forward three years, Meredith walks us through her thriving business today, lessons learned, and the hacks that make her operation both efficient and profitable. From process development to pricing strategies and marketing for visibility, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for building a successful design business. Show Highlights: Strategic Launch: How Meredith's year-long launch strategy set the foundation for success. Efficient Systems: The power of templates, structured scheduling, and repeatable processes. Working with Trades: Building reliable trade relationships and the value of clear communication. Profitable Sourcing: Transitioning from retail to a streamlined sourcing model for higher profitability. Marketing Mastery: Tips on putting out the right content and leveraging local vendor relationships. Notable Quotes: “Put out what you want to receive. If you want a new build and you don’t have a new build, okay, I’m not suggesting that you lie about it. Absolutely not. But do your best to try. If you have one project that can even just appear to be a little bigger...try and hone in on that.” “Time freedom is the ultimate success. It’s the ability to create my own schedule. There are some weeks that are really hard, but being able to look at my calendar and say, ‘Next Tuesday, I don’t have anything. Maybe I’ll work, maybe I won’t. Maybe I’ll pick up my kid early.’ That’s why I started my business.” “Efficiency is not just about systems. It’s about relationships, trust, and maintaining a streamlined workflow with everyone you work with.” Supporting Resources: Learn More About House of Huck: Visit Meredith’s Website Follow Meredith on Instagram: @houseofhuck Register for the Design Biz Power Course: Sign Up Here EP92 with Meredith Huck Sponsor Links: A big thank you to our sponsors: James and James Trade Program – Makers of solid hardwood furniture, supporting the design trade with quality craftsmanship and customization. Design Manager – A comprehensive project management and accounting platform for interior design professionals. Follow & Review: Be sure to follow the podcast and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more valuable insights to the design community.  

Today we welcome Terri Brien, owner and principal designer of Terri Brien Interiors based in San Clemente, CA. In this episode Terri shares her experience working with a residential home builder for over nineteen years and the many lessons learned about design and business that influenced her current business model like detailed processes, time management, and problem solving. We also talk about the many ways that as a now solopreneur Terri has relied on our design community to build a network of trusted allies and resources to help her navigate the ever complex business of design. Show Highlights: From Corporate to Solopreneurship: How Terri transitioned from a design management role to starting her own firm. The Power of Process: Why process mapping is essential for client satisfaction and team collaboration. Community & Networking: Building relationships with industry peers and leveraging shared knowledge. Lessons from Residential Builders: Insights from working on 50-70 homes per year and the impact on her design philosophy. Client-Centric Design: Understanding clients’ true needs through communication and material knowledge. Notable Quotes: “Getting out of my own way was the biggest challenge. I realized I already had a strong foundation; I just needed to trust it.” “Mapping your process isn’t just for efficiency—it’s about identifying pain points for clients, trades, and yourself and finding ways to make the entire experience better.” “It’s our job as designers to look beyond what clients say they want and dig into what they truly need for long-term happiness.” Supporting Resources: Learn More About Terri Brien Interiors: Visit Terri’s Website Follow Terri on Instagram: @terri.brien.interiors Register for the Design Biz Power Course: Sign Up Here Sponsor Links: A big thank you to our sponsors: James and James Trade Program – Makers of solid hardwood furniture, supporting the design trade with quality craftsmanship and customization. Design Manager – A comprehensive project management and accounting platform for interior design professionals. Follow & Review: Be sure to follow the podcast and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more valuable insights to the design community.  

Welcome to this special industry spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide! In this format, we showcase brands and partners that empower interior designers, both creatively and professionally. Today, we’re excited to feature Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsay, co-founders of AI for Interiors, a platform helping interior designers embrace the power of artificial intelligence. In this episode Jessica and Stephanie share the back story of the brand and how a need within their own design business coupled with a passion for technology developed into what has become the leading resource for design professionals on AI which includes a podcast, online courses, and consulting. Show Highlights: Why AI Matters: Overcoming fear and misconceptions about artificial intelligence in the design industry. AI for Design: Tools like ChatGPT, MidJourney, and Proam AI for inspiration, presentations, and project management. Practical Applications: How AI supports everything from client communication to creating unique patterns and custom designs. Behind the Scenes: Using AI to streamline back-end operations, such as HR and project analytics. Tips for Designers: Where to start with AI and how to integrate it into your design business. Notable Quotes: “You don’t have to know everything about AI. You just have to start somewhere—like ChatGPT—and let the learning grow from there.” “AI doesn’t replace creativity; it enhances it, giving designers more time to focus on their vision and clients.” “If you’re drained by repetitive tasks, that’s where AI can step in as your assistant and free you up for the things you love.” Supporting Resources: AI for Interiors Website: aiforinteriors.com AI for Interiors Instagram: @aiforinteriors Register for the Design Biz Power Course: designbizsurvivalguide.com/design-biz-power-course/ Follow & Review: Be sure to follow the podcast and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more insightful conversations to the design community.

Today we welcome Renee Biery, owner of Devignier Design based in Wilmington Delaware and host of the The Only Girl on the Job site Podcast. In this episode Renee shares her journey of design and how she developed a niche expertise in managing large scale construction from renovations to new builds. We dive deep into the benefits of embracing the construction side of design and the nuances of contributing to the construction process from a design perspective. Renee pays it forward to the design community by informing and empowering designers on how to be more confident on the job site and she shares her top tips right here with us. Show Highlights: Embracing Construction: Why designers should integrate construction management into their business models. Confidence on the Jobsite: How to project value and demonstrate leadership during construction projects. Collaboration Tips: Building rapport with trades, contractors, and clients for project success. Podcast Beginnings: The surprising origin of Only Girl on the Jobsite and its evolution into a go-to resource for designers. Resilience in Design: How Renee’s construction-first approach sustained her business during economic downturns.   Notable Quotes: “You are an equal with the contractor, the architect, and the landscaper. The client sees all of you as equals, and designers need to embrace that confidence.” “Be curious, show up early, and stay a little late on job sites. Building rapport with trades can transform your projects and strengthen relationships.” “The secret to survival in this business is construction. No two projects, teams, or clients are ever alike. That’s what keeps it exciting.”​   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Devignier Design: devignierdesign.com Devignier Design on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devignierdesign?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Renee’s Podcast: https://devignierdesign.com/podcast/ Register for the Design Biz Power Course – https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/design-biz-power-course/   Sponsor Links: James and James Trade Program: https://carpenterjames.com/pages/trade-program?ad=DBSG Design Manager: https://www.designmanager.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Marc Halaby, owner of Halaby Restoration and Painting, a renowned artisan-based restoration and painting company in Southern California. Marc shares his journey as a third-generation craftsman, the legacy of his family’s artistry, and how his team collaborates with top designers, architects, and builders to create stunning, high-end residential projects. With a philosophy rooted in collaboration and quality, Marc provides insights into leadership, craftsmanship, and his commitment to excellence. His dedication to team development and client satisfaction has helped him build a respected company where artisans can thrive and clients experience unparalleled results. Marc discusses the importance of involving trades early in the design process and creating a cohesive team dynamic that enhances every project. Show Highlights: Marc’s family legacy and the evolution of Halaby Restoration and Painting. Building a company culture focused on support, trust, and continuous improvement. Collaborating with design partners to bring creative visions to life and elevate client experience. Training artisans to master unique finishes and transforming spaces with precision. How to leverage trades’ expertise for innovative and cost-effective solutions. Notable Quotes: “We got to do this with love. Seriously, we are nice to work with...We don’t have attitudes. We’re all there to do the same job.” “These guys literally make my life possible, and I like to think the same that I do for them. We’re like a big family.” Supporting Resources: Halaby Restoration: halabyrestoration.com Marc’s Instagram: @halabypainting Sponsor Links: James and James Trade Program Design Manager

This is a special Industry Spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide. This supplemental format is designed to share brands and partners that support designers both creatively and professionally. This is our way of sharing valuable information and resources for your business with you, our loyal listeners. Today, we’re speaking with Kevin Lee, CEO of Design Manager, and Staci Davidson, owner of Everything but Design. In this episode, Kevin shares the history of the Design Manager brand and their vision for being the “go-to” project management and accounting platform for interior design professionals. Staci joins the conversation to provide a firsthand account of the ways that Design Manager is improving the efficiency and accuracy of design businesses across the country.   Show Highlights: How Design Manager helps interior designers in managing the business side of their work The history and vision behind the Design Manager The latest version of Design Manager offers an updated, web-based interface Design Manager supports easy platform updates without data conversions Design Manager’s ability to eliminate the need for multiple software platforms and spreadsheets The item-based approach of Design Manager and the advantages it provides How Design Manager makes it easy to track both billable and non-billable time and generate accurate invoices The support and service available for Design Manager users   Notable Quotes: “Design Manager is a singular solution to project management and accounting for their design business.” - Staci Davidson. “Design Manager really eliminates a lot of unnecessary additional software platforms, as well as outside tools like Excel spreadsheets and Google documents.” - Staci Davidson.   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Design Manager: https://www.designmanager.com/ Staci Davidson: https://everythingbutdesign.com/

Today, we welcome Emily Yeates, CEO and Principal Designer of Urban Revival — a full-service interior design firm based in Paradise Valley. Arizona. In this episode, we discuss Emily’s exposure to design at a young age and her passion for problem-solving, which led to the launch of her own design business.    Emily shares her lessons learned while growing her team and developing her processes… spoiler alert — it did not happen overnight. We also discuss the importance of a fine-tuned business structure and how it not only allows her to provide extraordinary service to her clients but also allows her to be present for herself, her health, and her family.   Tune in to learn how Emily built a successful design business by creating efficient systems while balancing her professional and personal life!   Show Highlights: Emily’s early exposure to design and the path to launching her own business Hiring the right people for your business and why more designer is not the solution when growing your business Developing a strong business structure with the help of her operations manager, Meredith How having clear and repeatable processes made her business run smoothly Tools and platforms that Emily’s team uses for efficiency and communication – Asana, Loom, DesignFiles, etc How the business was able to thrive during Emily’s cancer treatment Emily’s “Business Edit” program and how it helps other designers succeed The importance of furniture profit margins and wholesale ordering   Notable Quotes: “I refuse to live in an ugly place. I grew up around beautiful things. I wanted a beautiful place, and I was going to make it happen.” - Emily Yeates “The pinnacle of success is having a business that can run when I step away, and it keeps going.” - Emily Yeates “Profit margin is a really big deal to me. And furniture is the way that I’m able to do that.” - Emily Yeates “Implementing processes and structure allows you to put your business on autopilot in times when you need it.” - Rick   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Urban Revival Website - https://urbanrevivalphx.com/urban-revival Emily Yeates on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/urbanrevivalphx/   Sponsor Links: James and James: https://carpenterjames.com/pages/trade-program?ad=DBSG Design Manager: https://www.designmanager.com/  

This is a special Industry Spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide. This supplemental format is designed to share brands and partners that support designers both creatively and professionally. This is our way of sharing valuable information and resources for your business with you, our loyal listeners. Today, we’re speaking with Jason Voorhees, founder and president of Cantara – a full-service home technology integration agency based in Costa Mesa, California. In this episode, Jason shares the history of the brand, his passion for home technology, and how his team of experts collaborates with designers, builders, and architects to enhance the beauty and function of extraordinary homes throughout Southern California and beyond.   Show Highlights: The meaning behind the name Cantara and the history of the brand Jason’s role as the founder and president of Cantara  Working with Cantara from a designer’s perspective and the importance of integrating technology early in the design process How the home technology industry has grown beyond just audio and video systems Different departments in Cantara – lighting design, window treatments, audio/video systems, home automation, etc How Cantara maintain long-term relationships with clients even after the project is complete Jason’s involvement in the Dream World documentary and its impact on the industry The potential of AI in home technology and how it can make homes smarter and more beautiful   Notable Quotes: “Our industry is unique in that we need to be great at designing and be world-class at building, installing, and finishing the job.” - Jason Voorhees “It’s important that we do a good job as an industry to start reframing and redefining what it is that we do so that people realize, ‘Oh yeah, there’s so much more driven by technology in these houses these days.’” - Jason Voorhees “We hope that our clients stop time, remove themselves from the moment, just for a second, and look around and think, ‘Wow, this is the perfect evening. My home is singing for me right now.’” - Jason Voorhees   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Cantara Website: https://www.cantaradesign.com/ Cantaradesign on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cantaradesign/  Guild Integrators Alliance: https://www.guildintegratorsalliance.org/ Dream World Documentary: https://www.dreamworldfilm.com/

Today, we welcome Kate O’Hara, CEO and Creative Director of O’Hara Interiors — a full-service interior design firm specializing in high-end commercial and residential projects. In this episode, Kate shares her journey from a career in education to taking the helm of the family design business. We discuss her role in the business and the delicate balance of leading, delegating, and empowering a growing team of creatives. Kate also shares the pros and cons of maintaining two offices, one in Minneapolis and one in Austin, and she shares her perspective on boundaries, community, and communication.   Show Highlights: Kate’s background and transition from teaching to running her family design business The unique dynamics of working in a family business The pros and cons of maintaining two office locations The importance of communication, delegation, and empowering your team Having clarity in processes and decision-making to enable team members to work efficiently and creatively The importance of intentionally setting boundaries and maintaining a work-life balance   Notable Quotes: “Be intentional about having balance, especially as we started working from home. Everything bleeds together.” - Kate O’Hara “If you’re going to run multiple offices successfully, there have to be clear lines of decision-making and communication.” - Kate O’Hara “I’d much rather be effective than be busy.” - Kate O’Hara “Knowing when and how to communicate decisions and intentions as you go really leads to a lot of the success of a company.” - Kate O’Hara   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: O'Hara Interiors Website - https://oharainteriors.com/ O'Hara Interiors on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ohara_interiors/?hl=en   Sponsor Links: James and James: https://carpenterjames.com/pages/trade-program?ad=DBSG Design Manager: https://www.designmanager.com/

Today, we welcome Errol Dejager, founder of Dejager Design - a full-service interior design firm specializing in luxury residential design. In this episode, Errol shares his journey from South Africa to Southern California in pursuit of his passion for design. We discuss his biggest influences and mentors that guided him on his path to launching his own design business and the development of his holistic design process. Errol also shares a pivotal moment in his life and career that redefined the evolution of his design business.   Show Highlights: Errol’s journey from South Africa to the United States and starting his own design business The influence of his mentors and how they shaped his approach to interior design The event that made him re-evaluate his approach to both life and business Saying “NO” and being more selective about the clients and projects Errol’s strategies for serving a high-end, luxury clientele Utilizing technology like 3D modeling and virtual reality to engage clients and move them from a place of fear to love during the design process Keeping his portfolio private to respect client confidentiality and how it impacted his business   Notable Quotes: “The first and most important thing is to listen... You’ve got to listen to your clients. They’ll tell you what they want.” - Errol Dejager. “No is a complete sentence.” - Errol Dejager. “Reframe your overhead. Instead of it being a liability, it’s an asset.” - Errol Dejager.    Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Dejager Design Website - https://www.dejagerdesigninc.com/ Errol Dejager on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/erroldejager/ Books Mentioned: The Gap and the Gain - Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy: amazon.com/Gap-Gain-Achievers-Happiness-Confidence   Sponsor Links: James and James: https://carpenterjames.com/pages/trade-program?ad=DBSG Design Manager: https://www.designmanager.com/

Today, we welcome Deborah Flate, founder of Dialogue Consulting. Deborah is the voice of sales techniques and strategies that inspire the sales teams of some of our favorite design brands and showrooms in the industry. In this episode, Deborah shares some of her core sales principles with us because, at the end of the day, your design business is a sales organization, too. We dive deep into selling with confidence, what questions to ask, what information to listen for, and how to leverage showrooms and sales reps to support your sales process. Tune in to learn how to master the art of selling in your design business!   Show Highlights: Deborah’s background and her transition from interior design to sales Deborah’s business model and training she provides to design brands, showrooms, and the design community The importance of sales techniques and mindset for designers, even though many may not see themselves as salespeople The questions designers should ask their clients to understand their needs and priorities The role of showrooms and sales reps in supporting the sales processes of designers and how to leverage their product knowledge and expertise The importance for designers to develop strong product knowledge and utilize the resources and information provided by sales teams Advice for designers on prioritizing their resources and product lines    Notable Quotes: “You can be the most talented designer, the most talented person in the world, but if you don’t know how to sell and the techniques of how to sell, it’s going to be really hard for you to succeed.” - Deborah Flate. “We are all salespeople, whether we want to think so or not. Convincing a person to go to a movie is selling them. Convincing them the color you want to paint your home is selling them.” - Deborah Flate. “Design business owners need to embrace the fact that their business is also a sales organization. You need to incorporate that into it because it is a really big part of the picture.” - Rick.   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Dialogue Consulting Website - https://dialogue-consulting.com/ Dialogue Consulting on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dialogueconsulting Deborah Flate on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahflate/   Books Mentioned: Leveling Up with GUSTO by Debora Flate: amazon.com/Leveling-GUSTO  To Sell is Human by Daniel H. Pink: amazon.com/Sell-Human-Surprising-Moving-Others   Sponsor Links:  Daniel House Club: https://danielhouse.club/ High Point Furniture Market: https://www.highpointmarket.org/registerDBSG

Today, we welcome Kamala Nair, a professional copywriter and voice brand expert for interior design professionals. In this episode, Kamala shares how her time as a copywriter at Elle Decor introduced her to the world of interiors and the importance of storytelling in order to support and elevate the beauty of interior design. Get your notepad ready because Kamala shares her top three strategies for using effective copy to differentiate your brand. We also discuss her personal journey of entrepreneurship and how relocating from NY to London empowered her to think big and launch her own business.   Show Highlights: Kamala’s background as a copywriter and her transition to running her copywriting agency Strategies for how to use words to differentiate your design brand Creating an effective statement of differentiation for your brand Evoking emotions and creating a personal connection with clients Avoiding cliches and generic language when crafting brand messaging Identifying what makes your design business unique or different The importance of understanding and marketing to your ideal client persona Kamala’s journey of launching her own design copywriting business and the challenges she faced   Notable Quotes: “You have a maximum of 15 seconds to capture your reader’s attention. If you don’t capture their attention in that 15 seconds, they’re going to move on.” - Kamala Nair “Create a statement of differentiation. It’s a headline and a subheadline that succinctly captures what makes your brand different.” - Kamala Nair “You really need to be marketing towards who you want to be working with and not who you’re currently working with. You need to speak directly to your ideal clients, pain points, the problems that they’re trying to solve.” - Kamala Nair   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Kamala Nair Website - https://www.kamalanairinc.com/  Kamala Nair on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kamalanair/    Sponsor Links: High Point Market: https://www.highpointmarket.org/registerdbsg Design Manager: https://designmanager.com

Today, we welcome Andrew Patterson, Founder and president of Patterson Custom Homes based in Newport Beach, CA. In this episode, Andrew shares his perspective on the client experience as it relates to custom home building. We dive deep into his commitment to quality and building a trust-based relationship with his clients, partners, and designers.  We also discuss how years of experience and hundreds of builds have contributed to a tried and true process that extends beyond construction and into concierge maintenance services that protect his brand and maximizes his client’s investment.    Show Highlights: Business model and approach of Patterson Custom Homes and how it focuses on client experience and quality The importance of transparency, upfront planning, and detailed cost data to manage client expectations Their custom care program to maintain the quality and longevity of the homes they build, and prepaid maintenance services The factors that have contributed to the growth and success of Patterson Custom Homes — focus on integrity, community involvement, delivering an exceptional client experience, etc. Benefits of collaborating with interior designers on home renovation projects and how it helps in cost management and product longevity The need for synergy between designers, architects, builders, and homeowners for successful project outcomes How Andrew’s custom care program extends the client experience beyond project completion by automating home maintenance tasks and keeping the home well-maintained   Notable Quotes: “The project will always be successful if the client is informed before the project starts, and not just informed on cost, but on the process, how long it takes, and what the actual outcome will be.” - Andrew Patterson “Every time we finish a project, we exponentially grow our process, and we refine it tighter and tighter and tighter.” - Andrew Patterson “It comes at a price to have a good reputation, and every day before nine o’clock, I’m presented with all these invoices of things that have gone wrong...and I just write checks. I’d rather just have everyone be happy and positive than be richer than everyone else.” - Andrew Patterson    Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Patterson Custom Homes Website: https://pattersoncustomhomes.com/ Patterson Custom Homes on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pattersoncustomhomes/   Sponsor Links: High Point Market: https://www.highpointmarket.org/registerdbsg Design Manager: https://designmanager.com

This is a special Industry Spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide. This special format is designed to share brands and partners that support designers both creatively and professionally. This supplemental podcast format is our way of sharing valuable information and resources for your business with you, our loyal listeners. Today, we’re speaking with Renee Bush — Founder and Chief Strategist of TANDEM. Renee and her team are behind the brand development and business strategies of some of the most well-known and loved design businesses in the industry. TANDEM is committed to helping design entrepreneurs define business goals and build effective, strategic steps to achieve them. Show Highlights: Renee’s background and how she founded her agency TANDEM TANDEM’s customized approach to helping designers develop strategies to grow their businesses, custom branding, websites, and marketing support Understanding each designer’s unique goals, clientele, and creative work style when developing business strategies and solutions Examples of how TANDEM has helped designers refine their branding, messaging, and marketing to attract their ideal clients The value of designers clearly communicating their business model and services to referral partners like builders and architects Key considerations around branding and visibility that designers should keep in mind when trying to attract new clients Building trust and rapport with clients through different marketing strategies   Notable Quotes: “Everyone is coming from a different place and headed to a different place. When you’re really clear on the type of business you want to build, how you want to do that, and who you want to work with, you’re going to get there more effectively.” – Renee Bush.   “Trust is not something that they give us. We’re not looking for trusting people. It’s something we build as a business. And your marketing is what builds that trust.” – Renee Bush.   “Follow the fun, what feels the most fun, because that’s how we’ll get really good results.” – Renee Bush.   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: TANDEM Website - https://with-tandem.com/ Renee Bush & Tandem Studio on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/with_tandem/

Today, we welcome Kali Sudbrook of Beachside Interiors to the podcast. Kali is a licensed contractor and interior designer based in Orange County, CA, and specializes in creating health-forward spaces. In this episode, Kali shares her niche approach to design and the joy that she experiences creating fitness spaces. We dive deep into her business model, embracing a design specialty and the benefits of being a B2 Remodeler Contractor. We also discuss Kali’s perspective on attitude, mindset, community, and all of the things that influence her design journey.   Show Highlights: Kali’s background and transition from a career in academia and fitness to designing specifically for fitness spaces The importance and challenges of niching down early in her business Kali’s journey to becoming a B2 remodeler licensed contractor and how that has given her more control and flexibility in her design projects The importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive team and leveraging your network Kali’s approach to launching her own design business and the motivation behind it The role of leadership in design and how Kali has embraced that responsibility The value of having a supportive partner and building a community of like-minded people and trade partners   Notable Quotes: “Messy action is better than inaction.” - Kali Sudbrook.  “You always have to bring value no matter what you do.” - Kali Sudbrook.  “One of my strengths is I’ve never been afraid to ask for help.” - Kali Sudbrook.  “Leadership is being a leader when you give away all of the credit when something goes well. And you take all the blame when something goes not good.” - Simon Sinek. “You do not need high heels and a Louis Vuitton bag to walk into a room of designers and have valuable conversations and make real connections.”  - Rick.   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Beachside Interiors Website: https://beachsideinteriorsremodeling.com/ Kali Sudbrook on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/kalithecontractor/ Beachside Interiors Design & Remodeling on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beachsideinteriors_oc/   Sponsor Links: Daniel House Club: https://danielhouse.club/ Design Manager: https://designmanager.com

Today, we welcome Jackie Green - Founder, CEO, and Chief Strategist of Behind the Design. In this episode, we focus on the employee perspective of the business of design and the value of empowering them with business knowledge and acumen. Jackie explains the basics that every design employee should understand about time billing, overhead, and productivity. If you’re a team member of a design firm and want to have a bigger impact on the business, this episode is for you.   Show Highlights: Business acumen and the importance of interior design employees to understand it The need for employees to know things like how much time is budgeted for projects, what the company’s expenses are, and how profits are made Questions that employees can ask their leaders to understand the big-picture strategy and how they can contribute How leaders can educate employees on different business functions like accounting and purchasing The importance of working as a team and understanding each other’s roles The importance of employee retention and how open dialogue between leaders and employees can help with retention Taking ownership of work and commitment to the team   Notable Quotes: “I think we forget that as leaders, your employees might actually have really good ideas.” - Jackie Green.   “Nobody wants to do a crappy job. Your employees are here because they want to succeed. So the more information you can give them to succeed, they’re going to feel better about it, and they’re going to work harder.” - Jackie Green.   “The better we educate our teams and let them know how the business operates, the more amped they get on board and be like, ‘Yes, I want to go out there and build better relationships with clients. I want to offer more services when I’m out networking.’ Because if the business does better, so do I.” - Jackie Green.   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Behind the Design Website - https://www.behindthedesignco.com/  Behind the Design on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/behindthedesignco/    Sponsor Links: https://danielhouse.club/ https://designmanager.com

Today, we welcome Marcia Bryan, owner of Bryan Design Group based in San Diego, California. In this episode, Marcia shares her design journey from model homes to full-service residential and senior living design. Marcia shares how a chance opportunity evolved into a design niche for her business model and how the nuances of senior living design influence and enhance her residential design projects in a practical and meaningful way. Adding new disciplines of design requires continued education, and Marcia shares her approach to expanding her design knowledge by leveraging her network of experts and mentors.   Show Highlights: Marcia’s design journey from model homes to founding her own firm How designing for senior living is different than other design Things to consider for designing senior living spaces – accessibility, ADA rules, how aging people see and hear, etc The importance of continued education and learning from experts How Marcia’s exposure to senior living influenced her approach to residential projects Marcia’s experience of starting her own business and the challenges she faced Marcia’s first hire and the importance of balancing different strengths within the team How focusing on residential and senior living helps Marcia’s business stand out from other designers Notable Quotes: “It’s the scariest thing in the world and the most exciting thing in the world to open your own business.” - Marcia Bryan. “For all designers out there that are doing it on their own, kudos to them. But honestly, I think they could be happier, relying on the strengths of others as well as their own.” - Marcia Bryan.   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: Bryan Design Group Website - https://www.bryandesigngroup.com/ Marcia Bryan on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bryandesigngroup/   Sponsor Links: https://danielhouse.club/ https://designmanager.com  

Today, we welcome Niki Landry, founder of Hatch Creative Co. - a consulting firm focused on supporting small to mid-level design businesses. In this episode, Niki shares her design journey and how a moment of need at the commercial design firm that she was working at triggered the leader within and culminated in her transition from design to operations. We discuss the value of recruiting and promoting from within and her strategy for identifying hidden leaders among your team. If you’re in growth mode - this episode is for you! Show Highlights: Niki’s business model and her design journey  Niki’s transition from design to operations role The importance of looking internally first when you want to expand your design team   Asking employees questions to understand their interests, strengths, and problems Providing training to employees on both soft skills like managing and hard technical skills Using a mentoring approach and gradually increasing responsibilities to prepare staff for promotions   Notable Quotes: “Your best resources are already under your roof. They understand your culture, they understand your business model, they understand the game.” - Rick.   “If firms want to be successful, grow sustainably, and have a team that truly knows the business, they should look internally. Bring those people along on the upward journey, build that team, and create the company that you want.” - Niki Landry.   Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.   Supporting Resources: HATCH CREATIVE Website: https://www.hatchcreativeco.com/   HATCH Creative Co. on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hatch.consulting/   HATCH Creative Consulting on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hatch-creative-consulting/   Sponsor Links: https://danielhouse.club/   https://designmanager.com