Design Business Freedom

In this essential episode, you're diving into the new frontier of AI-powered search and learning exactly how to make your interior design firm not just visible but preferred by ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and other AI search tools. Melissa walks you through why traditional SEO is no longer enough and shares the top 10 strategies to ensure your design business shows up when future clients ask AI who the best designer in their city is. You’ll discover the importance of authority language, consistent branding, optimized metadata, and content that educates (not just inspires). Melissa also shares how to audit your online presence and provides a simple way to test your current AI visibility. With the rapid evolution of AI, you’ve got a narrow window to get ahead—and this episode is your roadmap to owning that competitive edge. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (04:08) Why AI search is fundamentally different from Google—and what it means for designers (07:37) The 10 keys to getting your design firm found by AI, starting with brand positioning (09:00) How weak language (like "help") is killing your credibility and visibility (14:19) The power of location anchoring and why geography now matters more than ever (15:13) How press and media mentions now signal authority to AI tools (23:43) Why AI-readable assets like transcripts and consistent formatting boost your searchability SUPPORTING RESOURCES: MelissaGalt.com/events — VIP Designer Branding Retreat and Marketing Reboot in Scottsdale, November 12–14, 2025 When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

In this insightful episode of Design Business Freedom, Melissa challenges the growing trend of over-automation in interior design businesses. While automating certain processes can be a major time-saver, she reminds you that design is a high-touch, sensory-driven, and deeply personal service. Melissa walks you through how automation can subtly erode client trust and connection if you're not using it with intention. You’ll learn how to strike the right balance between efficient systems and meaningful moments that foster client loyalty and emotional impact. From the three critical phases where automation should take a back seat to her powerful Five Senses Framework, this episode is your call to reintroduce the magic of real human connection in your design process. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:01) Why automation should enhance efficiency—not erase intimacy—in your design business (02:34) The truth behind what clients are really investing in (hint: it’s not convenience) (03:13) Three high-touch phases in your process where automation should step aside (04:43) How to use personal check-ins, video walkthroughs, and voice notes to deepen client connection (07:09) The Five Senses Framework to elevate every reveal and create unforgettable client experiences (11:07) A simple 10-minute audit to evaluate if you’ve gone too far with automation SUPPORTING RESOURCES: VIP Designer Branding Retreat and Marketing Reboot – November 12–14, Scottsdale, AZ When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.  

Your design work might be stunning—but what truly sets you apart in a competitive market is the experience you deliver. In this episode of Design Business Freedom, you’ll dive into the client journey from start to finish. Melissa walks you through how to turn your design process into an elevated, polished experience that builds trust, eliminates confusion, and leaves your clients raving (and referring). From the initial inquiry to the final reveal and beyond, you’ll discover how every single touchpoint can be an opportunity to wow your clients. Learn how to map your process into a journey that reflects your brand, enhances your value, and runs like a well-oiled (and joyful!) machine. If your current client experience isn’t as polished as your portfolio, this episode is a game-changer. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:05) Why clients hire you for more than just beautiful design—and what really separates you in the market (05:48) How to confidently introduce your feasibility package or style and comfort assessment (12:33) The importance of presenting your proposal live (or via Loom) to avoid the “telephone game” with couples (17:35) What to include in your onboarding expectations document to reduce project interference (26:14) Why presenting just one confident design scheme is your best move—and how to back it up with expert education (34:57) How systems (and support) make procurement smooth and profitable, not stressful (39:08) The final step that too many designers skip—client debriefs and staying connected post-project SUPPORTING RESOURCES: Join Melissa at High Point Market: Saturday, October 25 at 10 a.m. — Universal Furniture: Five Secrets to Scaling Without Sacrifice Sunday, October 26 at 12 p.m. — Antiques & Design Center, Suites at Market Square: Outsource to Escape the Overwhelm When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

When client demand slows down, it’s easy to fall into a mindset of scarcity—but what if these quiet moments are your greatest opportunity to build a profitable future? In this empowering solo episode, Melissa shares exactly how to use any pause in your interior design business as fertile ground for marketing momentum, brand visibility, and long-term demand. You’ll walk away with clear, creative strategies that position you as an in-demand designer—even when inquiries are light. Melissa walks you through actionable steps to fill your profit pipeline through consistent marketing, lead magnets, creative partnerships, and event-driven visibility. From strategic social media content to paid VIP waitlists and completion celebrations, this episode is packed with ideas to create consistent, high-quality client demand on your terms. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:21) Why consistent marketing is your key to avoiding the feast-or-famine cycle in your design business (03:10) How to create a design ROI post series to highlight the tangible value of your work (05:34) Powerful event ideas—from builder lunches to showroom strolls—that increase visibility and credibility (08:35) The magic of a paid VIP waitlist to generate cash flow before projects even start (13:00) Why hosting a “Completion Celebration” can help you generate referrals from past clients (17:01) What to include in a high-converting process download (hint: don’t oversimplify!) (20:03) How to repurpose case studies for five years of future marketing impact (27:43) The importance of keeping your website and footer updated to reflect your professionalism and current offerings When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

If you’re still billing by the hour, this episode is your wake-up call. Melissa breaks down exactly why the hourly model is holding your design business back—limiting your income, straining client relationships, and undermining your creative freedom. Instead, she introduces flat fees as a smarter, more profitable, and more professional alternative that aligns with the true value of your work. You’ll discover how flat fees are not just a pricing model but a powerful positioning strategy. Melissa walks you through three of her proven flat fee formulas—percentage of project investment, square foot, and per room—showing you when and how to use each. You’ll also learn the critical components you need to price flat fees accurately and how to confidently communicate them to clients without ever falling back on hourly justifications. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (02:00) Why hourly billing leads to micromanagement, stress, and undercharging (04:46) How flat fees bring clarity for clients and consistency for you (06:37) The three most effective flat fee models and when to use each (13:50) Strategic pricing tips that make your fees sound lower (even when they’re higher) (17:03) What details you need to run flat fee formulas in under 10 minutes (29:53) How to confidently present and position your flat fees as premium and professional SUPPORTING RESOURCES: Loom Video Tool: loom.com When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

Are you tired of chasing luxury clients who never seem to notice you? In this episode, you’ll learn why high-end interior design clients aren’t scrolling through Instagram looking for their next designer—and where they actually spend their time. Melissa breaks down the key mindset shifts and strategic actions you need to stop hiding behind your screen and start making authentic, profitable connections in luxury circles. You'll discover how to step into the world of affluent clients with confidence, elegance, and authenticity. From charity galas and art openings to luxury gyms and country clubs, Melissa outlines exactly where to show up, how to show up, and why leading with genuine curiosity (not a sales pitch) is the fastest path to becoming the go-to designer for high-net-worth individuals. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (00:28) Why high-end clients move differently—and what that means for your marketing (03:02) The power of getting involved in charity events and how to use them to connect (04:49) Leveraging luxury gyms, spas, and wellness clubs to meet ideal clients naturally (07:14) Business and social clubs that offer high-value networking for designers (10:41) How to position yourself as the go-to referral for top builders and architects (13:36) The importance of showing up authentically in luxury circles (no pitch required) SUPPORTING RESOURCES: EP126: Unlocking the Power of Profit Partnerships in Your Design Business Invited Clubs Google Alerts When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

Are you stuck at a revenue plateau in your interior design business and wondering why you can't seem to scale beyond $300K, $500K, or even $750K? In this power-packed episode, Melissa walks you through the most common roadblocks that keep designers from hitting that elusive seven-figure milestone. Whether you’re doing it all yourself, undercharging for your services, or micromanaging your team, she uncovers the exact shifts you need to make to break through each revenue barrier. You’ll discover how to hire effectively, charge profitably, and lead powerfully. Melissa also shares practical tools, action steps, and mindset upgrades that you can start using immediately to shift out of hustle and into high-level strategy. This episode is your ultimate roadmap to creating a sustainable, scalable design business that doesn’t depend on your every move. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:11) Why $300K is the DIY ceiling—and how hiring, even an intern, can get you unstuck (06:23) The hidden value of outsourcing your bookkeeping and financial tracking (14:33) The half-million dollar hesitation—how undercharging is capping your growth (16:58) How flat fees and procurement management fees can transform your profitability (20:34) Why leadership, not labor, is your key to moving from $750K to $1M+ (22:27) The mindset shift required to operate as a CEO, not just a designer SUPPORTING RESOURCES: MelissaGalt.com Dubsado: https://www.dubsado.com Motion: https://www.usemotion.com ClickUp: https://www.clickup.com Studio Designer: https://www.studiodesigner.com Design Manager: https://www.designmanager.com HousePro: https://www.houzz.com/pro When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.  

This episode of Design Business Freedom is your empowering guide for navigating slow seasons in your interior design business with clarity, strategy, and confidence. Melissa shares actionable insights for transforming lulls into launchpads—without discounting your rates, compromising your value, or spiraling into fear. You'll learn why slow seasons are part of the natural business cycle, and how to use them to elevate your brand, reconnect with your network, and set up systems that support long-term growth. Melissa covers smart visibility strategies, ways to reconnect with your ideal clients, and tips for leveraging quiet time to refine your operations and mindset. She also delivers a powerful reminder: clients buy certainty. That means your energy, presence, and belief in your value matter more than ever. Whether you're reworking your flat fee structure, leveling up your social media, or revamping your contracts, this episode offers a no-nonsense roadmap to emerge stronger on the other side. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:10) Why slow seasons happen—and why they don’t mean you’re failing (03:18) How to turn downtime into your most creative and strategic season yet (04:19) Visibility mistakes designers make—and how to stay top-of-mind with your audience (07:08) Ways to infuse your personal style into your brand presence (13:16) How to reconnect with your network and create new collaboration opportunities (17:28) Why staying in your CEO energy is crucial during slow times SUPPORTING RESOURCES: Amy Kartheiser: https://amykartheiserdesign.com/ Emmy Couture Interiors: https://www.emmycouturedesigns.com/ Isabel Ladd Interiors: https://www.isabelladdinteriors.com/ Corey Damen Jenkins: https://www.coreydamenjenkins.com/ Corey’s Masterclass: https://www.masterclass.com/classes/corey-damen-jenkins-teaches-interior-design When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

Are you unknowingly sabotaging your design business from the inside out? In this episode, Melissa Galt unpacks the #1 silent killer of success in your interior design practice—self-doubt. It’s not about trusting your team, clients, or vendors (though those are important); it’s about building unwavering trust in yourself. When you hesitate, question, or delay out of fear or uncertainty, the cost isn’t just emotional—it’s financial, creative, and strategic. Melissa shares powerful insights, real-life stories, and actionable advice to help you rebuild self-trust and reclaim your business growth. You’ll hear the eight major ways self-doubt sneaks in and sabotages your design firm—from delaying key hires and over-offering client selections to undercharging and fearing bold moves. This episode will give you a massive confidence boost, along with practical steps to take control, own your value, and finally get out of your own way. If you’re ready to create more profit, more joy, and more freedom in your interior design business, this is your wake-up call. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:12) How self-doubt shows up as hiring hesitation—and why hiring before you're ready is critical (06:05) The hidden profit you’re leaving on the table when you doubt your product selections (11:45) Why saying yes to the wrong clients kills creativity—and how to fix your marketing instead (16:04) The real cost of undercharging and how to confidently state your fees (18:33) Why leading your clients (and not letting them lead you) protects your process and peace (26:37) How self-doubt around big goals keeps you stuck—and how visualization can unlock your next level SUPPORTING RESOURCES: Feel It Real by Denise Coates – book recommendation from the episode When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

In this powerful and mindset-shifting episode, you're going to break free from the outdated belief that interior design is a "nice hobby" or a side hustle. Melissa takes a deep dive into what’s truly possible in the world of interior design when you treat it as a serious business—one with the potential to earn six figures in your first year and scale into the multiple six and seven figures. You'll hear real success stories of designers who shattered income plateaus and made strategic changes that led to exponential growth—without burnout. Melissa shares personal insights from her own journey, along with lessons from the countless designers she’s coached. Whether you’re new to design or have been in the game for years but feel stuck, this episode will ignite your ambition, remind you of your power, and give you the clarity and courage to aim higher. If you're ready to stop treating your talent like a part-time gig and start treating it like the business it is, this one's for you. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:05) Why six and seven figures in design aren't just possible—they're within reach (04:20) How one designer hit $1.5M in 18 months after going out on her own (06:36) The real ceiling in your business and how to dismantle it (13:02) Why doubling revenue doesn't have to mean doubling your workload (16:45) How to grow strategically even during a slow season (21:36) The three key traits every successful designer must have: passion, persistence, and ambition SUPPORTING RESOURCES: Follow Melissa on Instagram: @melissagaultofficial When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.  

In this powerful episode of Design Business Freedom, you’re getting the ultimate reframe to shut down client discount requests with confidence and clarity. Melissa breaks down why interior design is one of the most valuable investments your clients will ever make—not just for a moment, but for decades of daily joy, beauty, and functionality. She shows you how to confidently articulate that value and stand strong in your pricing, without falling into the trap of unnecessary generosity or fee-cutting. You’ll learn how to shift both your mindset and your messaging so that you and your clients see design for what it truly is: a transformational upgrade with a return on investment that outlasts any vacation, luxury car, or designer handbag. From residential to commercial projects, Melissa gives you the exact soundbites, analogies, and positioning tools to communicate long-term ROI and educate your clients into appreciating—not questioning—your fees. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:05) How to quantify your value with a 24-7-365 impact that lasts 15 to 30 years (03:09) Why design is not a one-time purchase like a car or a vacation—and how to explain this to clients (06:23) The secret to reawakening client appreciation months or even years after a project ends (08:25) Why discounts devalue your work and train clients to expect more for less (10:30) A powerful ROI breakdown that turns a $150K investment into less than $28/day (13:23) How to reframe price objections with calm confidence, not defensiveness SUPPORTING RESOURCES: Design ROI One-Sheet Download When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re falling short compared to other designers, this episode is your gentle but firm nudge to stop measuring your worth against someone else’s highlight reel. Melissa pulls back the curtain on imposter syndrome and the comparison trap, sharing 20 practical, mindset-shifting steps to silence that inner critic and step fully into your brilliance. You’ll walk away with tools you can use daily to reset your thinking, build unshakable confidence, and create unstoppable momentum in your design business. From naming your imposter something silly, to creating a “confidence kit” of your wins, to swapping perfectionism for progress, this episode will help you reclaim your lane and own it. Melissa also dives into how to curate your circle for maximum support, share your work before it’s perfect, and shift your focus back to your unique gifts. This is a masterclass in turning self-doubt into self-assurance—so you can stop comparing and start celebrating the designer only you can be. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:02) How to recognize the signs of comparison and imposter syndrome before they take hold (03:09) Why naming your inner critic can help you separate from it and take back your power (04:06) How to create a “confidence kit” that keeps your wins front and center (09:54) The freedom that comes from making peace with being a lifelong work in progress (14:31) Why perfectionism is your imposter’s favorite weapon—and how to fight back (27:40) How to surround yourself with the right people and release toxic influences When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

In this milestone 150th episode of Design Business Freedom, you're guided through a refreshingly simple yet strategic approach to overcoming slow seasons in your interior design business. Instead of succumbing to the overwhelm of "more marketing," Melissa Gault, your interior design business coach, walks you through the transformative power of choosing one intentional action to focus on for 30 days. This episode is packed with tangible ideas and real-life examples to help you bring in clients, cash, and confidence—without the hustle. Melissa shares 12 proven marketing strategies specifically designed for interior designers and emphasizes the importance of alignment, authenticity, and consistency. Whether you're feeling a slowdown in inquiries, income, or inspiration, you'll walk away with a practical plan to shift from scattered effort to meaningful momentum. It's about simplifying your strategy to amplify your results—and this episode shows you exactly how. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:09) Why “doing more” during slow seasons leads to burnout, not bookings (03:40) How to select one of 12 proven marketing moves to focus on for 30 days (05:31) Why launching a digital newsletter can be a game-changing visibility tool (07:17) The power of story-driven Instagram content that attracts ideal clients—not DIYers (13:07) Tips for getting into publications and podcasts your clients actually pay attention to (26:11) How optimizing your Google Business Profile can improve local visibility fast SUPPORTING RESOURCES: Tricia Malloy Testimonial Writing Services Timeleft Dinners When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.  

Believe it or not, I see so many designers flying without a net, which is what I call it when you work without a letter of agreement or with one that has absolutely no protection for you in it. A letter of agreement is just another word for a contract, but it sounds much friendlier. Most importantly, a letter of agreement will outline all stipulations, clauses, and information that you and your client need to set up a positive and professional project timeline. Your business needs to have a document that provides protection for your profits and peace of mind for you as the principal of the firm while at the same time providing clarity and confidence to your client. And even though this is so important, the legalese that most contracts are written in often makes both designers and clients uncomfortable and overwhelmed. My attorney-approved letter of agreement template is written in plain English and covers everything needed for protection from any snafus that may arise. And in today’s episode, I will walk you through my process of creating the right letter of agreement that is not going to overwhelm you or your clients but will still provide all of the clarity, confidence, and cohesiveness needed for your next project. In this episode, you will hear: How to craft a thorough and protective letter of agreement in plain English that will be easy for you and your clients to navigate Which clauses to walk your clients through when reviewing your Letter of Agreement The importance of presentation and ease of information when crafting your letter Subscribe and Review Have you subscribed to our podcast? We’d love to welcome you to our creative community, if you haven’t yet subscribed. We’d truly appreciate it if you 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 spreads the word about the podcast Supporting Resources: View my Letter of Agreement template - https://melissagalt.kartra.com/page/the-right-design-agreement  For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok @MelissaGalt Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com.  Let them know we sent you.

What if I told you that the words you choose can have an impact on your bottom line? One of the best ways to attract affluent clients is by choosing the right words–words that not only magnify the worth of your work but sow the seeds of success. That means discarding limiting words like "expensive" and "cheap" and embracing empowering language that reflects the true value of your projects and services. But, that’s not to say that this is an easy fix! Amending how you use and choose words in your vocabulary can be one of the most difficult changes you can make because the way we speak is so patterned and ingrained in our minds. But, if you can make the changes with fidelity in all aspects of your life–even behind the scenes–you will shift your world and your worth. Join me in today’s episode for my suggestions for the words you need to eliminate and those you should adopt to sound more on-brand for your affluent clients and support your bottom line on the way.  In this episode, you will hear: How word choices can increase the worth of your projects and attract affluent clients The impact of client language on the perception of design services and projects. Words to avoid to help you step away from perpetuating limiting beliefs Suggestions for using more creative, empowering language and replacing cliched or negative phrasing 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: Get the Book: “Marketing Luxury Design: Attracting Affluent Clients” For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

When was the last time that you evaluated how you are compensated for your creative services? The last time that you raised your rates to reflect your experience and value? You know what I’m about to tell you: it’s time, in fact, you’re overdue! Today we’re diving into how to accurately charge for your services based on your value rather than your worth. You’ll learn how the solutions that you provide to the three universal problems every client has–health, wealth, and relationships–are your greatest advantage in accurately pricing your services. You’ll understand why it’s so important to adjust your fees based on the return on investment that your services give to clients, rather than on the amount of time it took for you to complete. Remember, you only get paid for your work once, even though it will be enjoyed by your clients for years to come. It’s crucial to learn how to harness and embed your value into your pricing, so that your business can stay lucrative and you don’t burn yourself out. Fortunately, I have key strategies for you to get the most out of your service pricing without discounting your own worth. Tune into today’s episode to hear my proven tips on how to ask for everything you deserve: because you don’t get what you don’t ask for. In this episode, you will hear: How to solve the three universal problems that all clients have. How to move your client from need (logic and their head) to want (emotion and their heart) to increase their investment in your services The importance of pricing your services based on outcome value rather than on time How to get yourself out of the hourly trap Subscribe and Review Have you subscribed to our podcast? We’d love to welcome you to our creative community, if you haven’t yet subscribed. We’d truly appreciate it if you 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 helps spread the word about the podcast. Supporting Resources: For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok @MelissaGalt Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Melissa delivers a heartfelt reminder that the real freedom you crave in your design business—and your life—starts within. She walks you through a powerful, affirming list of freedoms you’re entitled to claim, from releasing self-doubt and shame to designing a business that truly lights you up. This is your invitation to step into your full brilliance and own every part of your creative journey. Whether you’re tuning in post-Independence Day or just need a reset, this short and powerful episode serves as a soul-boosting guide. Melissa's affirmations are designed to help you realign with your purpose, release the noise that holds you back, and build a business that fuels your most extraordinary life. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:24) Claim your freedom from blame, self-sabotage, and the fear of future mistakes (02:30) Break free from overwhelm and learn to ask for support unapologetically (02:49) Let go of draining clients and embrace working only with those who energize and respect you (03:32) Discover the power in breaking molds and creating your own rhythm in business (04:16) Step into your confidence, claim your abundance, and stop playing small (05:18) Own the freedom to be exactly who you are and fall back in love with your work When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.

If you’ve ever found yourself wishing that the stellar work on the latest design project you’ve been devoting your time to would definitively translate into sustained growth even after that project is over…well, you’re in for a treat this episode. There are three specific ways to guarantee that you will grow your business with every project that you take on. Today, I am deep-diving into each method to ensure you get the most bang from each project you take on. I’m walking you through the art of amplifying your brand's credibility using client testimonials, underscoring the value of top-notch photography, and sharing the savoir-faire of securing referrals that will blossom into your dream client list. These tips will make it so that you won’t have to wonder where your next project will spring from–instead, you’ll have a steady stream of ideal clientele looking to work with you. I'll take you through the process of getting your projects published utilizing Amy Flurry's coveted recipe for press and tapping into her digital media list. Discover how to deepen client relationships with personalized touches, ensuring your work remains etched in their memory. Plus, I’ll share my secret weapon for seeking referrals that reflect your past triumphs and set the stage for a thriving future filled with projects you adore. Prepare to elevate your presence in the industry with strategies that do more than just showcase your talent! So tune in and let's ensure your client list is as curated and impactful as the work you put out into the world. In this episode, you will hear: How to deepen client relationships and leverage client testimonials effectively to enhance your brand’s credibility  The significance of professional photography in showcasing projects to grow your client base Techniques for acquiring client referrals that align with your desired project types and clientele Strategies for getting your work published in both digital and print media 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: Testimonial Writing Service How to Get Press, Amy Flurry For more information about The Affluent Creative, check out my website www.melissagalt.com Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MelissaGalt and TikTok @MelissaGaltBusinessCoach

In this powerful solo episode, Melissa shares the raw and real story of how she launched her interior design business with no funding, a mountain of debt, and sheer determination. You’ll hear her journey from a corporate hospitality career to her first design roles, and ultimately to bootstrapping her own design firm against all odds. This is not just a nostalgic look back—it's a blueprint for how you can start from zero and build a thriving business in the design world today. Melissa walks you through the pivotal moments, gritty lessons, and the massive mindset shifts that made all the difference. From working side gigs and teaching evening classes to identifying ideal clients and finally breaking free from overwork, this episode is packed with inspiration and tactical takeaways for anyone starting or scaling an interior design business. If you're in the messy middle or just getting started, Melissa’s journey proves that you absolutely can create a successful, fulfilling business on your terms. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (02:29) How Melissa’s early career in hospitality became the perfect foundation for sourcing and procurement in design (05:14) Why she walked away from corporate success to pursue interior design full time (09:58) The financial hole she had to climb out of—and the personal struggle behind it (12:57) How teaching evening classes helped her land her first design clients (19:27) The game-changing client avatar discovery that doubled her revenue and halved her workload (24:51) The mindset that fueled her success—and why failure was never an option SUPPORTING RESOURCES: Everything is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.  

In this inspiring episode of Design Business Freedom, Melissa Galt speaks directly to designers ready to make the transition from working for others to building their own thriving interior design firm. Whether you're still at a big-box retailer or have already made the leap, this episode gives you the mindset shifts, tactical steps, and real-world advice to create success on your own terms. Melissa unpacks the fears, challenges, and opportunities that come with stepping into your role as a business owner and principal designer. She offers practical strategies—from crafting your vision and choosing services to setting your pricing model and marketing yourself effectively. Through personal stories and client examples, you'll learn how to leverage your past experience, take bold action, and launch with confidence. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:43) The identity shift needed when going from employee to CEO of your own firm (06:55) Tactical steps to take before and after leaving your design job (11:22) How to set your pricing model and why flat fees beat hourly billing (14:25) Realistic math to help you hit six figures and beyond (22:01) How to recognize and overcome fear through consistent action (28:02) Building a portfolio before you have clients using real, strategic options SUPPORTING RESOURCES: Design Agreement Template: melissagalt.com/designagreement When you’re ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.