Hey there, welcome back to the podcast! Today, I have an inspiring conversation for you with Allison Handler, the founder and principal designer of Allison Handler Design, based out of New Jersey. Allison's journey to interior design wasn't exactly traditional—she started in the world of fashion and merchandising in New York City.

 

She had a dream to be like the iconic Carrie Bradshaw, and she made it happen, working with major names like Donna Karen. But after 20 years, she found herself craving something more fulfilling, especially after getting a taste of work-from-home life during COVID.

 

Allison talks about how interior design organically found her through the homes she renovated with her family. Friends and family started asking for her help with their own spaces, and her design business quickly grew from creating mood boards on Etsy to her first full-home design project. It wasn’t always smooth sailing, though. Allison shares how she started out juggling her full-time job, family life, and her budding design business before finally taking the leap to go full-time with her own brand.

 

Key Highlights:

Finding Your Niche Through Experience:  Allison discusses how she figured out her own style and brand by taking on any and every project early on, learning along the way, and eventually niching down to clients who resonate with her aesthetic.

 

The Power of Social Media:  Allison attributes much of her business’s growth to social media, especially Instagram. By putting herself and her personality out there, she attracted clients who connected with her vibe and style. She emphasizes that being real and authentic online is her "secret sauce."

 

Building Client Relationships: In this industry, hiring an interior designer is a very personal decision. Allison values the relationships she builds with clients, explaining that designers are often involved in deeply personal aspects of a home and life. These connections, she believes, are what set her apart in a crowded market.

 

Balancing Business and Creativity:  With her background in fashion merchandising, Allison brings a unique mix of creativity and business acumen to her design work. She shares insights into budgeting, planning, and even “cost-engineering” to give her clients a high-end look within their budgets, especially when working with builders on spec homes.

 

The Importance of Having a Team: While clients may want to work directly with her, Allison shares the value of her small but talented team. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration in design and how her team helps elevate the overall vision of each project.

 

Allison's story is a fantastic example of blending passion with business, and she’s a reminder that you can always reinvent yourself. If you’re considering a career pivot or dreaming of turning your passion into a business, you’ll love Allison's story and the practical advice she shares.

 

Thanks for joining me and Allison for this deep dive into the world of interior design. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! Connect with Allison on Instagram @AllisonHandlerDesign and follow her inspiring journey.

 

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