Do you dread talking about money with your clients? 

In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m diving into the challenges designers face when they avoid money conversations—and how it can hurt your business, projects, and client relationships.

I’ll share why skipping the budget talk early on leads to mismatched expectations, wasted time, and lost profitability. Plus, you’ll learn practical strategies to confidently discuss costs and set clear boundaries with clients, ensuring smoother projects and better outcomes for everyone involved.

In this episode, we cover:

• The hidden costs of avoiding money conversations
• How to address common client objections about budgets
• Strategies for discussing costs without feeling pushy
• Using a “Budget on the Fly” approach to streamline discussions
• How clear money conversations lead to trust and project success

If you’ve ever struggled with discussing money, this episode is packed with insights and actionable tips to help you approach these conversations with confidence and ease.

🎯 Ready to elevate your business? Visit Interior Design Business Academy to explore resources and coaching designed to help you succeed.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!

Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.

Have you ever dreamed of seeing your work featured in a national design magazine? 

In this episode of Interior Design Business, I sit down with Erin Shakoor of Shakoor Interiors to discuss her incredible journey to being featured in the summer 2024 issue of House Beautiful.

Erin shares the behind-the-scenes story of her three-year renovation project that earned an eight-page spread, including how she managed client expectations, overcame contractor challenges, and strategically positioned her work for publication. From pricing an $85,000 design fee with confidence to mastering the art of professional styling and photography, Erin’s story is a must-listen for any designer aiming to take their business to the next level.

In this episode, we cover:

• How a cold lead turned into a dream project
• Lessons learned from a detailed exploratory process
• Pricing strategies for high-end clients
• Building strong client relationships during lengthy projects
• Tips for getting your work featured in national publications

If you’ve ever wanted to elevate your design business and gain recognition for your work, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration!

Ready to take your business to the next level? Visit Interior Design Business Academy for resources and coaching designed to help you succeed.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!

Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.

Are you ready to start your design business but unsure where to begin? In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m sharing the ultimate guide to building a successful design business from the ground up. 

I’ll walk you through the essential steps—from setting up your legal framework and building your team to creating vendor relationships and crafting a clear marketing plan. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your business, this episode is packed with actionable advice and a checklist to keep you on track.

In this episode, I cover:

• The legal and financial foundations of starting a design business
• Building a team of trusted vendors and collaborators
• Essential software and systems to streamline your operations
• How to identify your ideal client and clarify your brand
• Marketing strategies to attract clients and build your reputation

Starting a design business is an exciting journey, and with the right tools and mindset, you can create a thriving, profitable business that reflects your unique talents.

Ready to take the first step? Visit Interior Design Business Academy to explore resources and coaching designed to help you succeed.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!

Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.

Talking about money with clients can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! 

In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m joined by Head Mindset Coach Valerie Priester to discuss how to navigate money conversations with confidence and clarity. 

We’ll uncover the hidden fears and money stories that hold designers back, and share practical strategies for discussing budgets, fees, and project costs without feeling salesy or pushy. From setting expectations upfront to using proven systems for presenting fees, you’ll learn how to transform these conversations into opportunities for building trust and winning clients.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why avoiding money conversations can cost you time, trust, and profitability
• How to identify and overcome money fears and limiting beliefs
• The psychology behind presenting fees and budgets effectively
• Proven systems for confident, transparent money conversations
• How building trust through transparency leads to client success

Ready to elevate your mindset and skills? Visit Interior Design Business Academy and book a call to explore how we can help you master the art of money conversations.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!

Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.

Does the idea of networking make you cringe? 

In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m breaking down why networking doesn’t have to feel awkward or forced. In fact, you’re probably already networking naturally—without even realizing it!

I’ll share how to shift your mindset about networking and reframe it as an organic, relationship-building activity rather than a pushy, sales-driven chore. You’ll learn practical strategies to connect authentically with others in everyday situations, craft a powerful elevator pitch, and draw clients and referral partners to you effortlessly.

In this episode, I cover:

• Why networking isn’t about attending awkward events or pitching yourself
• How to build genuine relationships that lead to new opportunities
• The importance of a clear and compelling elevator pitch
• How to spot organic networking opportunities in your daily life
• Why creating referral partnerships can transform your business

If networking has ever felt intimidating, this episode will show you how to make it natural, effective, and even enjoyable!

🎯 Ready to grow your business? Visit Interior Design Business Academy to book a call and explore how we can help you succeed.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!

Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.

In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m sharing innovative ways to scale your design business and increase profitability through strategic partnerships. Partnering with other designers, contractors, or vendors can open the door to high-profile, big-budget projects you wouldn’t tackle on your own—all while keeping your business independent and financially secure.

I’ll discuss real-world examples of successful partnerships, from design-build collaborations with architects and contractors to forming teams for larger projects like model homes or multifamily housing. You’ll also learn how to leverage stocking dealer accounts with other designers to maximize margins and streamline purchasing.

In this episode, I cover:

• How strategic partnerships can unlock bigger opportunities
• Why maintaining financial independence is crucial
• Real-world examples of partnerships that boost profitability
• Tips for combining resources to secure vendor accounts
• How to scale your business without adding unnecessary stress

Ready to scale smarter? Visit Interior Design Business Academy to book a call and explore how we can help you grow your business sustainably.

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!

Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.

Are you wondering if now is the right time to hire for your design business? 

In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m diving into the key indicators that it’s time to bring on help and how hiring can transform your business. 🚀

From spotting the signs that you’re ready for extra support to understanding the financial impact of delegation, I’ll show you how hiring strategically can free up your time, improve client satisfaction, and drive profitability. Whether you’re overwhelmed with admin tasks or feel stuck in the DIY mindset, this episode will give you the clarity you need to make the leap.

In this episode, I cover:

• How to recognize the signs you’re ready to hire
• The financial benefits of delegation for scaling your business
• How hiring the right help improves workflow and profitability
• Practical strategies for taking the first step toward building a team

If you’re ready to stop feeling overworked and start scaling your business with confidence, this episode is for you!

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!

Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.

Do you feel like you can’t afford to hire help for your design business? 

In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m flipping that belief on its head and showing you why you actually can’t afford NOT to hire someone to help you. 

I’ll break down how just one extra billed hour can pay for several hours of administrative support each week, freeing up your time to focus on income-generating activities like designing and marketing. You’ll learn how the DIY approach is costing you more than you realize—your time, energy, and even client satisfaction. 

Plus, I’ll share actionable strategies for tracking your time, identifying where you’re losing productivity, and scaling your business with a small but impactful team.

In this episode, I cover:

• Why hiring help is a critical step for growth
• The hidden costs of trying to do everything yourself
• How to track your time and identify tasks to delegate
• The 80/20 rule for maximizing your productivity and profits
• Strategies for scaling your design business effectively

If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and start scaling your business, this episode is for you. Let’s turn your time into money and take your design business to the next level! 

Ready to SCALE? Check out my workshop, SCALE! Your Design Business: https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/scale-your-design-business/

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!

Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.

In this episode of the Interior Design Business podcast, we’re diving into the challenges of staying in control during remodeling projects. When clients bring contractors into the mix too early, things can quickly get complicated. We’ll explore a real-life case where a designer lost control of a kitchen remodel after the client and contractor made changes without the designer’s input, leading to budget cuts and project issues.

Learn essential strategies to avoid these pitfalls, such as finalizing project details before introducing contractors, developing a clear scope of work, and ensuring contracts are signed and funded before any contractor-client interactions. We also discuss how to communicate the impact of design changes, from increased costs to potential liability issues, and the importance of maintaining control over the project from start to finish.

Topics covered in this episode include:

• Why you should avoid bringing contractors in too early
• The importance of finalizing scope and budget before contractor-client meetings
• How to handle client-led design changes and DIY efforts
• Tips for maintaining control throughout remodeling projects

If you’ve ever felt sidelined during a remodeling job, this episode is for you. Take back control and ensure a smooth project flow!

Book a Clarity Call 

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!

Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.

In this episode of the Interior Design Business podcast, I’m sharing how design fees can streamline your workflow, increase profitability, and create a smoother process from start to finish. I dive into why setting up clear budget agreements and scopes of work upfront can eliminate wasted time and unpredictable income, making it easier to plan your day, manage your time, and focus on what matters most.

Through design fees, you’ll gain control over your schedule, minimize last-minute client changes, and present the entire project as a cohesive concept. This approach keeps you in charge, ensures clients understand the full scope, and allows you to get paid upfront—all while delivering a superior experience.

In this episode, I cover:

• How design fees eliminate guesswork and boost profits
• Why budget and scope agreements streamline the process
• Planning deliverables and managing time effectively
• Presenting the total project for a single, cohesive sale
• Invitation to the Design Fee Formula workshop

If you’re ready to streamline your design process, increase profitability, and gain control over your projects, this episode is for you!

I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!

Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.