Designer's Oasis

I believe in a rising tide that when one of us does well we all do better. I love sharing this space with other amazing interior designers and can’t wait for what’s in store! In today's episode, I share my vision for where we are headed in 2024 and the impact that we can have as interior designers. I want to share a little bit about what we're going to be doing here on the podcast, inside the Designers Oasis community, and the topics and guests we are bringing on. One big part of this is a survey we are launching TODAY to all interior designers to gain insight into pricing, time estimates, and more. The goal is to help provide data points to help you confidently price your services and estimate your time based on industry standards. Here’s a glance at this episode… I share about my journey in self-care and personal growth (including my first mammogram experience!). I discuss the impact that interior design can have in the face of global issues and the impact we have in our clients’ lives and homes. I share my focus on leaning into sustainability practices in the interior design industry and how I am hoping to inspire even small steps towards more ethical and sustainable practices in design. I even let you know about a few guests who will be joining us in the new season that I am so excited to share with you! Mentioned in this episode:  Take the Interior Designer Pricing Survey JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Dear Kate: Submit your questions for the show!     🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/68

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint   I feel strongly that when we share our gratitude through gifting with clients and the people that we work with it's a good feeling and it makes us feel good as well.   In today's episode, I share my love of gift-giving by sharing how to show gratitude through gifting clients and colleagues plus the positive impact that giving others gifts can have on your mental health and even your business success. So, think about your budget, get yourself organized, and get out there and start gifting.     Here’s a glance at this episode… I share various gift ideas, including subscriptions, experience, and DIY gifts, to cater to different clients' interests and lifestyles. I showcase unique gift ideas for high-end clients including items for home, travel, and on-the-go. I share my favorite DIY gift options for business associates.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Dear Kate: Submit your questions for the show! Gift Guide with Links!   🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/67

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint   When you share gratitude openly with others, it starts to have a ripple effect and it can help you to feel good too, even when there are uncertain times (and there are many!) Gratitude is this amazing, free thing you have available to you at any time, all the time, no matter what.   In today's episode, I share the power of gratitude in business and how it can help to create a sense of belonging and connection to our work and to the other contributors to our business(es).   Here’s a glance at this episode… I emphasize the importance of showing gratitude to all contributors in a business, from clients to vendors, to create a virtuous cycle of gratitude. I share how to put into practice finding gratitude in everyday experiences I discuss gratitude's impact on mental well-being and resilience through the infinite nature of both love and gratitude.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Dear Kate: Submit your questions for the show!   🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/66

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint   Have you ever gotten yourself a big project or call from a big deal client and thought to yourself, I don't think I have what it takes to take on this project?   What if instead, you got curious and asked yourself, what would it take to be successful with this project? Who do I need on my team? What do I need to learn?   In today's episode, I share 3 mindset shifts to start using so that you can run your business through a lens of curiosity, leading to a business that will expand, thrive, and grow.   Here's a glance at this episode: I share how to set boundaries and be more proactive in your interior design business. I discuss my experiences and my tips for managing difficult client relationships. I share how to overcome your limiting beliefs, embrace resilience, and overcome your fears in building your interior design business. I dive into how to expect that you will make mistakes and how to push yourself so that you can grow your interior design business into what you want it to be.   Mentioned in this episode:  Annual Masterplanning for Interior Designers Masterclass on November 16th! -Register Today! JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Dear Kate: Submit your Podcast Questions today!    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/64

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint   Starting an interior design business is easy, but growing an interior design business is so much harder because you just don't know all the answers and sometimes it's using your own intuition.   In today's episode, I chatted with Libby Rawes about how she successfully transitioned into an interior design business and what it took to really make the career shift from branding to interior design.   Here's a glance at this episode: We discuss how Libby made the career shift from branding to interior design. We discuss the evolution of the client process, client experience, and home design. Libby shares how investing in her business growth through hiring, PR, and setting intentions has really helped her business flourish. We discuss how to hire and work with contractors and build partnerships. We talk about everything related to pivoting careers and how to leverage past experiences when building an interior design business.   Mentioned in this episode:  Annual Masterplanning for Interior Designers Masterclass on November 16th! -Register Today! JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Follow Libby on Social: Instagram    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/63

Building an interior design business that is profitable takes hard work but it is figure-outable.   Today's episode is all the 3 commitments that you need to make to build your interior design business in a way that is profitable without setting yourself up for burnout and taking on too much to get there. In this episode, we turn the tables, and Katie Gutierrez, from Biographical Design interviews yours truly!   Here’s a glance at this episode… 👉 We discuss overcoming financial struggles in a business partnership. 👉 We share our experiences with pivoting a design business from feeling overwhelmed to thriving. 👉 We dive into how to create profitability and creativity in your business. 👉 We touch on how to manage time, finances and marketing as a creative business owner. 👉 We share how to track metrics and which types of metrics you should be tracking, including project profitability and costs.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Highpoint Meet-Up Form Dear Kate: Submit your questions for the show! Find Katie at Biographical Design      🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/62

Interior Designers Business Blueprint   Serving clients well and building an interior design business with excellent communication can be done without always being available.    Today's episode is all about how to create systems, processes, and communication that allow clients to feel nurtured and cared for without having to always be ON and responsive in the moment. This doesn't come naturally for most of us.   Here's a glance at this episode: [5:40] I share examples of when a client may reach out for something that seems "urgent" and how it can truly interrupt your flow. I also share strategies for how to handle these situations.   [9:50] I discuss ways to set boundaries with clients from the start that allow you to share some of your boundaries (holidays, working hours, etc) initially prior to signing a contract.   [12:05] I dive into how to set up communication guidelines with your clients around when they can communicate with you and expect a response along with how they can communicate with you (text, email, etc). I also share how to leverage your team to help with communication.   [16:45] I share my thoughts about response time and when a client can expect a response from you. I share how I respond even if it's quick to acknowledge a client's concern and share when they can expect a more detailed response. I also dive into a little bit about how we handle responses with autoresponders and commonly asked questions.   [21:37] I jump into how project management tools can help ease communication and allow clients access to information and concerns they may have. I also share the ways that we update our clients regularly to help answer the questions that may come up before they even have to ask.   [27:10] I discuss how and when I share with my clients when I am going to be away for more than a day or two. I encourage you to take time off and truly give yourself permission to take the time off when you need it in a way that truly allows you to relax (and allows for you to tap into your creativity!)   Mentioned in this episode:  Annual Masterplanning for Interior Designers Masterclass on November 16th! -Register Today! JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Dear Kate: Submit your questions for the show! Episode 44: Unraveling Busy with Molly Crouch Episode 32: 7 Red Flags You Shouldn't Ignore SHOP: Client Welcome Package Tools I Recommend: Dubsado, Honeybook,  Design Files, Boomerang for Gmail    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/61

I want you to have clarity in where you're heading and what you're focused on right now.   In today's episode, I share my 4 phase success path for interior designers to help you know what to focus on right now, gaining clarity on where you're heading and want to go without getting stuck in the comparison game with those around you   Here's a glance at this episode: [4:44] I share how to figure out where you may be on your success path and remind you that you have time! You control your time and where you can focus so we dive into what that may look like for you.   [7:47] I share what the four phases of the success path are and how to figure out what area(s) you may be in currently.   [10:30] I discuss what you may be thinking, feeling, and doing if you are in the Launching Phase of the success path. I share what your next steps may be, and what milestones to look for.   [17:23] I move into what the Establishing Phase of the success path entails including creating your project management systems, time tracking, and what your processes are evolving into as you take on more projects.   [24:25] I share what you may be working on and developing in the Growing Phase of your success path.   [33:35] I jump into the Refining Phase and how this usually involves scaling, how and why you may want to take this step.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Highpoint Meet-Up Form Dear Kate: Submit your questions for the show! [SHOP] Interior Design Client Agreement Contracts [PODCAST] - Episode 44 | Unraveling Busy with Molly Crouch [PODCAST] - Episode 59 | How to Develop a Rock-Solid Concept Design    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/60

When you're a good listener to your client's needs, wishes, and visions, your clients naturally are excited and share this with their friends - making them natural evangelists for your work before you even finish the project.   In today's episode, I share how to develop a rock-solid concept design phase for your clients and how important it can be to truly utilize in getting your clients excited and ready for their project.   Here's a glance at the episode: [11:26] I dive into the concept design phase, analysis paralysis, and what the concept design phase is really all about   [13:15] I discuss what so many interior designers leave out when it comes to concept design and how important it is for key decisions moving forward.   [17:03] I share a few examples of how important getting client questions and feedback answered during the concept design can make a big difference in what direction you go, and what products you're sourcing, as well as save everyone more time.   [19:35] I share what 4 items are included in the concept design phase and why you need to include all of these.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Highpoint Meet-Up Form Dear Kate: Submit your questions for the show!    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/59

I did not become an interior designer to sit around and crunch numbers all day..... but numbers tell a story!   As interior designers, we can get caught up in the design work and avoid the numbers and need to track a few key metrics to really understand our business. In this episode, I share the 2 key metrics that I use in my business and why they are the most important to track.   Here's a glance at this episode: [9:15] I jump into why it's important to track certain numbers and why this information is critical!   [11:12] I share all about conversion rates and what your typical client journey looks like. I talk all about each step of the journey and how to track conversions at each step along the way.   [15:25] I discuss how looking at conversion rates can help you pinpoint what still needs work and where potential clients may fall through the cracks. This helps determine what changes to focus on.   [19:09] I talk about Average Project Profitability (APP) and why this is the second key metric I believe interior designers should be tracking.   [25:20] I dive into how knowing your APP can help you determine which types of projects are the most profitable for you, which projects you may want to focus on more, and what needs improvement to increase profitability.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Highpoint Meet-Up Form Dear Kate: Submit your questions for the show!    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/58

Are you ready to really grow your business but you're still running it like you did on day one?   Today’s episode is all about creating the type of business you have always wanted. It's time to level up, create systems, and save you time and money all while forming a pipeline of client work that truly lights you up each day.   Here’s a glance at the episode: [11:50] I jump into when you know it's time to stop being "scrappy" in your business but rather a time to start truly investing in your business. You never outgrow the need to invest in your business or yourself.   [15:23] I share the signs to look for to let you know that it may be time to invest in your business.   [19:15] I discuss what I'm NOT talking about in terms of investing in your business without strategy. I share how to determine what is and is not a good investment in your business.   [22:06] I share what happens when you're ready to start leveling up and investing. I talk about the changes in your business and mindset when this happens.   [25:00] I wrap up with a few questions for you to think about to help you know what to invest in first or next.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers FREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design Business Highpoint Meet-Up Form Dear Kate: Submit your questions for the show!      🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube    -------------------------------------   ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis   EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/57

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Your first hire will always be the hardest. It’s kind of like having a baby.  Imagine this - You just returned from a much-deserved 2-week holiday with your favorite person or people and while you were away one(or perhaps all) of these things happened… You have a new client consultation on the calendar with a fully-vetted client.  You’ve received the as-built drawings and site photos from a brand-new project you are kicking off.  Drawings for a new kitchen renovation are nearly complete and fully detailed for next week’s presentation.  The ordering is complete for a project you recently presented to a client A light fixture arrived at the warehouse damaged, but a replacement is already en route.   Sounds pretty good yeah?  I’m here to tell you that this level of support, and growth is totally doable. I’ll share the ins and outs of hiring in your business in today’s episode. In this episode, we answer questions like… How do you even get started in making your first hire? How do you know if you’re ready to hire in your business? How does hiring actually increase the bottom line of your business? Here’s a glance at this episode… [06:50] I jump into how hiring can help your bottom line and the various ways it can greatly benefit your business. [14:50] How do you know who to hire first? I share how to figure out what your needs are and what type of hire you need to make first! [18:30] I walk you through the types of employees vs contractors and why you may want to hire each type, the pros and cons, and all of your options. [22:15]] My challenge to you this week: Write your job description of the role you want to hire first or next. Define the skill sets they need to have, describe the environment, and what kind of experience they need to possess.   🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/9

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint    Today I’m chatting with Ericka Saurit of Saurit Creative, a STRATEGIC BRAND MARKETING + STORYTELLING for interior designers and home brands.  Ericka believes that HOW you tell your story matters. It needs to be clear, concise, and consitent. She’s on a mission to help interior designers clarify their value and get that message out.  Ericka shares the 3 pillars that you have to understand and get right - in order to shift from being a business to a brand.  Here’s a glance at the episode: [5:37] Ericka shares her backstory and how she got into teaching storytelling for interior designers and the home industry. [13:45] We discuss the importance of brand storytelling and how it shows up across your work from your website and social media all the way into your proposals, emails, and correspondence with your clients. [18:10] Ericka shares what most interior designers underestimate or leave out when storytelling and how we have to think about if we are a business or a brand. She discusses how to create a brand where clients want to choose you. [24:00] We discuss the need for consistency across your brand storytelling and how important it is in what clients and potential clients remember us for. [29:10] Ericka shares with us the 3 E’s of taking a business strategy and creating a brand. [36:00] We discuss the importance of taking time to craft your storytelling without rushing through the process. There is so much more to creating a brand than just getting a really great logo and website up. [44:26] I ask Ericka to share what shifts an interior designer will feel when you really nail down your brand in terms of your business strategy and creating content. Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint Saurit Creative Follow Ericka on IG  🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/56

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint  Be willing to own your experience and the value that you bring to your clients and projects. If you feel you’re worth what you're charging, so will your clients! Want to raise your design rates? Your costs have increased and it’s time you raise your rates to match this. It’s tempting to put our emotions into these decisions but today is all about sharing how to make this a little easier! In this episode, we discuss things like… How to raise your rates and fees with ease. How to deliver the message that your rates will be changing. How to feel you're worth what you’re charging so your clients do as well.   Here’s a glance at this episode… [05:13] I share about how you could gradually increase existing clients as you increase your rates to newer clients coming in. Remember: not all clients have to be at the same rate. [08:35] Don’t be afraid to lose some clients. I share how raising your rates may lead to some loss of clients but this makes room for new clients. [09:45] I share how you can explain your rate increase to clients and discussion points you may want to have. [12:00] I share about using a fee ladder structure and how you can share this with your clients as well as timelines to share with clients. Resources mentioned in this episode:  BLOG - How to stop doubting your design fees BLOG - Raising your Rates for Interior Design Clients    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/26

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint  In order to know your profitability at the end of a project, it’s helpful to see what you estimated in the first place. Just like a budget for money, we need to budget our time.    Today’s topic is one of the most asked questions that I get about building your interior design business and that’s how to price your projects and come up with your service fees and feel more confident in your proposals when you send them out. In this episode, we answer questions like… How do you decide what type of pricing strategy (or a few of them) work best for your business? Do you need to base fees on square footage? How do you estimate your time?   Here’s a glance at this episode… [05:22] Do you need to track your time? Is this important regardless of your fee and pricing method? [06:37] I share what 2 factors your fees should be based on no matter what the project scope entails. How to continue to price projects well even as you and your team become more efficient at project management. [07:45] I share a few other methods on how to charge that may play a factor in how you charge for a project. I share how charging by the square footage or overall project cost is used by some interior designers (personally, this is not what I use and I share why!) [11:50] I discuss how to charge for your projects based on time and the value that you bring to the project. [16:45] I jump into the 3 types of pricing - hourly, flat fee, and hybrid. I share the pros and cons of each type and how we use them in our business. [28:50] I share my challenge to you for the week!   Resources mentioned in this episode:  Freebie - Design Process Asana Template  Harvest for timekeeping (Affiliate)  Blog Post - How to Use Pricing Options in your Design Proposals Blog Post - How to Easily Track Time for Interior Design Projects    Shop - Interior Design Client Agreement Shop - Interior Design Client Proposal    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint   WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/7 

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint  “You don’t have to get it right. You just have to get it going.” – Mike Litman In this episode I share:  A little about me  Share some of the early struggles I experienced  But also how I was able to overcome them and turn my little baby designer business into one that thrived and supported me and my family  3 core truths I believe can help you grow in business and accomplish your biggest dreams     Here’s a Glance at this Episode:  [1:40] Why podcasting? I share how if you’re anything like me, you listen on the go, fitting in during kids’ practices/lessons/pickups or while doing laundry, cleaning the house or a million other things. You’re a busy guy or gal! [3:20] A little background on me. I’m just a regular old girl! I share my background while living in Austin. I share how I was running out of time to decide what I wanted to major in. Then I learned that there was an “Intro to Interior Design'' summer course at my local community college. I instantly knew that would be my path. I share my early life with my “weekend designer” single mom and how we moved a lot - I mean - a lot 18x’s in 18 years. [6:00} I share about my internship with a high - end designer in Austin. We even did a $1M Boat Dock and how I then found my way to Denver working for OZ Architecture. It was a dream. Great team, Energy, buzz, Imagine scenes from The Intern - set designed by Nancy Myers. [7:20] I had my first baby and returned to work - severely sleep deprived! - and people started to notice. I thought I was going to get fired.  At this point my husband suggested maybe I should go to work for myself - I didn’t see that potential in myself. But he did.  [8:30] I did it! I went to work for myself. I share what I didn’t have going for me and then what I DID have going for me! Where did I start? What problems did I encounter? How and why did it “click”? [10:00] My business was growing but I was getting burnt out! The running a business part of the design business along with the client work was exhausting. So I had to figure out what to do to “fix” this. I needed to charge more and I knew I provided great service.  [12:15}  I will tell you what I did (not all at once) but I will share the top 3 things that I did to transform my business. Spoiler: I share much of what I learned inside my Designer’s Oasis Membership. [17:42] This is what I want you to know. These are 3 very simple truths I will stand behind until the day that I die. If you can get behind these ideas too, the sky's the limit for you.  [18:00] Core Truth #1 - You don’t need to have it all figured out. You will never have all your ducks in a row, so you just need to get going! [20:15] Core Truth #2 : There is No one-size fits all for running your design business. Design the business that works within what YOU want. That may be full-home design, specific room design, designer for a day, or agency work - it’s up to you! [22:00] Core Truth #3 - Everyone (including you) has a unique set of skills, background, expertise that adds a unique twist to your design POV. It's up to you to uncover this and tell that story. Listen in as I share examples of members inside the Designer’s Oasis Membership and their unique backgrounds. What is your story? [24:48] Recap of the core truths You don’t need to have it all figured out to get started  There is no one-size fits all approach to running your business  Your story matters and helps shape your POV as a designer.    Links Mentioned in this Episode: Designer’s Oasis  @designersoasis Luanne Nigara Podcast Episode  Book: Worth Every Penny: Build a Business That Thrills Your Customers and Still Charge What You're Worth     🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/1

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint  Is popular advice crushing your interior design business? Do you sometimes find that the advice you hear doesn’t seem to fit your business? Today’s episode is all about some popular advice that may be crushing your interior design business. I’m putting my stake in the ground on what I feel about some popular advice for interior designers and where I stand on these topics.   Here’s a glance at the episode: [2:50] I jump in with the notion that you have to have just one ideal client avatar and why I believe you often need variations of this avatar for each service that you provide. [6:42] I share why flat fee is not always the best way to charge for your projects and why I don’t believe there is ONE best way but rather how I believe in the nuances of the business and having the ability to charge based on the type of project. [13:03] I discuss how business is cyclical and even when you have achieved success, you will still face challenges. There is no “easy” in business. [16:50] I share how success looks differently for each of us and how to keep the big picture in focus.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers Episode 7 - 3 Ways to Price your Projects Episode 12 - How to Make More Money with Time Tracking (Part I - Why & How to Track your Time) Episode 13 - How to Increase Project Profitability with Time Tracking (Part II - How to Audit your Project’s Time & Increase Your Profitability)    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/55

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint    Energy begets energy. Money is energy.  If we know that energy begets energy, what happens in your business when you sit down and you spend the time to commit some energy towards revenue-generating activities and lead-generating activities? In today’s episode, we are talking about revenue-generating activities and what that means, how and when to do these activities, and how they keep your business thriving! This episode was inspired by a listener question that we received from Julia,  “Hi Kate, I’ve followed your advice and started batching my days so that I have more focus and not drawn in 100 different directions at once. I’ve set aside Mondays as my Marketing & Money Mondays. The problem is, I don’t always know what to do with this dedicated time. Can you provide some specific examples of revenue-generating activities that I can be focusing on during this time? Thanks so much. I appreciate everything.”    Here’s a glance at the episode: [5:00] We dive into a list of revenue-generating activities and get started with following up with leads. [8:25] I share about putting together proposals and my methods for getting these done in time efficient manner. [10:10] Invoicing clients can occasionally drop by the wayside when you’re deep into projects and a one-off invoice or an invoice outside of the regular schedule pops up so keeping these front of mind is necessary. [11:30] I discuss how I make time to reach out and cultivate strategic partnerships on a regular basis. [14:40] I share how utilizing Facebook groups can help build your clientele and the right methods for trying to both share helpful information and build relationships while also promoting your services. [18:00] Sometimes the key is in the follow-up and continuing to follow up with past clients. I share how this has worked for my interior design business.   Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint Ask Kate a question! FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/54

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint    Want to have better proposals? Start with delivering better consultations. Consultations are the first step in working with your client and the better experience they have, the more likely they will want to work with you Here’s a glance at the episode:   [6:36} I discuss how to effectively set expectations for your clients from the beginning - even before the consultation begins.    [9:08] I share how I prepare for a consultation and what I typically do in terms of paperwork, research, and getting to know the potential client(s).   [15:26] I share with you some of the little nuances that I have picked up along the way that help you to make  a great first impression.    [23:41] I go through how I get more information about the lifestyle of the client and what they are looking to feel in their home and how they entertain to get a full picture.   [27:15} I discuss how I treat the consults as a “mini-design” session to add value for my client where I share a few design solutions to allow them to see the possibilities, however big or small. I also use this time to explore the different surfaces and revisit the budget to present a solid proposal.   [38:30] I share how I wrap up the session and remind the client of their options moving forward. Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint Episode #5-  How to Create a Successful Client Welcome Packet My favorite tape measure     🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/53  

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint    Today’s episode is all about looking back and sharing with you all the 5 things I would do differently if I was starting from scratch again. I reflected back on what I would tell a new interior designer getting started in the industry. Here’s a glance at the episode: [5:25] I share how important it is to truly invest in your business early on. I share how I invest in my business regularly now and how I wish that I had started to do this earlier.   [8:30] Perfectionism is the antithesis of progress. I share how it affects me as well and how it an hold us back from just getting started in business so dive in!   [13:41] I share all about how to get comfortable with self-promotion even if it is inherently uncomfortable for you.   [16:00] I discuss how important it is to get clear on your goals and what success really looks like for you! Remember - it’s key to build the business you want that fits into your lifestyle.   [20:43] I share with you how to be more selective with the types of clients you take on and how to determine where to spend your energy. Mentioned in this episode:  JOIN: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint  🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer’s Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE?  🛒  Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles   ⬇️  Free Resources   FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram  📍  Pinterest  📺 YouTube  ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/52