Today we welcome Catie Bouchard - founder of Pen + Napkin, a 501c3 Non Profit design community that furnishes and decorates homes for families and individuals transitioning out of homelessness. In this episode Catie shares how a budding career in industrial design was sidelined by an ah-ha moment that re-defined her life passion. We also discuss the impact that design has on the people and families whose lives have been compromised and how our design community can unite to solve the needs of our greater community. This episode is not only informational and inspirational, it is also a call to action. If you’re looking for an opportunity to leverage your skills and resources to benefit others, this episode is for you!

Today we welcome Lindsay Stokes Kennedy and Alexandra Cole - the dynamic duo behind the brand Kennedy Cole Interior Design. In this episode Lindsay and Alex share their partnership in the business of design and the benefits of collaboration and how it influences their overall client experience. We also discuss the value of clear and honest communication and how it contributes to the ongoing development of a business model that is equally fulfilling for each partner. 

Today we welcome Meredith Huck, owner and principal designer of House of Huck based out of Milford, Connecticut. In this episode Meredith shares how a home renovation triggered a creative spark that evolved into her newly launched interior design business. We also discuss the many resources that Meredith credits to the development of her business. From college sports, and her previous career in sales, to design business coaches and podcasts, she’s leaving no stone unturned on her journey to building a successful and profitable design business. She may be new to the biz, but she has a lot to share so if you’re in your first year of business… this episode is for you! 

Today we’re re-capping our recent trip to Las Vegas Market. We checked in with our “must see” showrooms to see what’s new to market this year.  We even “hit record” and sat down with Leigh Kalvelage of MOE’s Home Collection and Wes Stewart of Sunset West Outdoor Furnishings to discuss the current state of availability and how designers and vendors can work better together to establish realistic expectations with each other and with our clients. 

Today we welcome Ann Ueno - owner and lead designer of her full service design firm based in Miami, FL. In this episode we discuss how years of experience in digital marketing in the hospitality industry opened the door for a new career in interior design. Ann shares her journey of learning critical design skills, developing a client experience, and the business of design. We also discuss the concept of having a long term vision for your design business, growing her team, and how paying it forward in the design community is built in to her business model.