291. From $500 Flyers to a $7M Show Home: The Contract Lessons Behind Erica Gelman’s Thriving Luxury Design Business
Description
In this episode, luxury interior designer Erica Gelman returns to share how she evolved her contract from simple terms to a robust, 15-page agreement that protects her time, energy, and profitability.
We dive into the real lessons learned through years of client experience, including what it was like to design a $7.3 million Princess Margaret Show Home, how she learned to charge for her value, and the timeline and revision clauses she swears by.
Whether you're struggling with flat fees, endless revisions, or client delays, this conversation will help you shift your mindset and sharpen your process.
Episode Highlights:
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Interior design contract tips that save you time and money
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How to handle revisions without getting stuck in feedback loops
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What to include in your proposal (and why it matters!)
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Why Erica stopped using flat fees—and what she uses now
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How to create boundaries while still delivering white-glove service
Episode Resources:
- Episode 147: Protecting yourself with a contract. Why you need a contract as an interior designer with Erica Gelman
- Episode 154: The ins and outs of designing a show house with Jennifer Muirhead
- Princess Margaret Lottery Grand Prize House
- Learn more about Erica at her website and follow her on Instagram.
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