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In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Lucy Lagana, a distinguished homeopath and holistic health expert who travels the world sharing her knowledge, including extended stays in exotic locales like the Maldives. Lucy, with her extensive background in homeopathic medicine, holistic nutrition, and allergy clearing, has been a crucial part of managing the host's health for over a decade. Today, we dive into the topic of cortisol—the notorious stress hormone—and its impact on women running their own interior design businesses. We explore how the multifaceted roles of business ownership can silently ramp up stress levels, affecting both mental and physical health. Lucy provides practical advice on recognizing the signs of elevated cortisol and shares non-medical strategies to manage and reduce its effects. Tune in to discover how you can start tuning into your body's needs with the same keen attention you give to your clients, making 2025 a year of health as well as success.

Instagram: @lucylagana
website: www.rootstohealing.com

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition.

The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design I @thorntondesign

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In this episode of Let’s Talk About Goals, Your Why, and Building Your Legacy, we dive deep into the power of core values and Big Hairy Audacious Goals (BHAGs). Discover how clarifying your principles and aiming high can keep you aligned, guide your decisions, and ignite a sense of purpose in both your business and personal life. From overcoming psychological barriers to creating systems that support your vision, we explore practical ways to stay focused on what really matters—making an impact and laying the groundwork for a legacy that lasts.

Whether you’re an emerging entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, this conversation is designed to help you shift your mindset from simply being a designer to becoming the visionary CEO of your firm. Learn how connecting with your “why” can propel you toward authentic growth, attract the right clients, and shape a thriving business. Tune in for insights that will empower you to dream bigger, work smarter, and design a future that’s truly aligned with your core values.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition.

The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design I @thorntondesign

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In this episode, we dive into why honing in on a specific niche can be the game-changer that helps interior designers stand out in a crowded marketplace. Rather than stretching yourself thin trying to appeal to everyone, we explore how narrowing your focus allows you to sharpen your expertise, streamline your marketing, and attract clients who truly value what you offer. From defining your unique strengths to crafting laser-focused messaging, we outline six compelling reasons why “going small” can yield big results for your design business.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to refine your brand or a newcomer aiming to carve out your space in the industry, this conversation sheds light on how niching down fuels both creativity and profitability. Tune in to discover practical tips, real-world examples, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive in the modern landscape of interior design.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition.

The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design I @thorntondesign

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Today’s guest is Crispin Butterfield—an interior designer who has been running her own thriving design business for over two decades. We’re going to dive into the ins and outs of building a successful firm: how she started from scratch, the moment she decided to grow her team, and the challenges she faced along the way. Now, with a wealth of experience under her belt, Crispin is dedicated to giving back to the interior design community, sharing her insights through mentoring, downloadable templates, and a host of other resources. I can’t wait to learn from her journey and unique perspective. Her name is as cool as her story—let’s get chatting with Crispin!

Website: https://www.designlifeinc.ca
Instagram: @designlifeinc

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition.

The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design I @thorntondesign

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Website: https://www.cathleenbarnesconsulting.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathleenbarnesconsulting/

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition.

The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design I @thorntondesign

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In this episode, we dive into the essential process of determining your hourly rate as an interior designer. Whether you charge by the hour, use flat fees, or quote per project, understanding your hourly rate is crucial for accurate pricing and profitability. We cover everything you need to consider, from your geographic area, ideal client, and level of service to business expenses, desired salary, and profit margins. Learn how to calculate your rate, track your time, and avoid common pricing mistakes to ensure your design business thrives. 

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition.

The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design I @thorntondesign

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 As interior designers, we know how critical communication is when working with clients. From the very first meeting to the final reveal, clear and empathetic communication can make or break a project. And let’s be honest, we’ve all had those stressful moments—when things don’t go according to plan, or clients are uncertain or overwhelmed.

Well, today, we’re diving into just that! I’m joined by two incredible guests—Alison Maratos, a Clinical Director and Registered Social Worker, and her sister Sarah St. Amand, who brings her unique perspective to the table. Together, they’ll share how we can create environments of trust, understanding, and clean communication with our clients.

We’re going to talk about values, scripting, mental checklists, and maybe even some physical ones—tools that can help us stay grounded and effective in our interactions, especially when the pressure’s on. So grab a coffee, take a seat, and get ready to connect with your clients like never before in 2025. You’ll leave this episode with practical tips to build stronger relationships, and hopefully, a little less stress along the way

Sarah St. Amand: @Sarahst.amandinteriordesign

Allison Maratos: https://maratoscounselling.com/team/alison-maslin-maratos/

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition.

The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a text

In this reflection episode, Laura Thornton looks back on the highlights and lessons learned in 2024, including the success of aging-in-place bathroom projects and the challenges faced in the design business. She discusses the importance of visibility, experimenting with Instagram reels and interactive content to connect with clients and fellow designers. Laura emphasizes the profitability of smaller projects like custom drapery and furniture and the value of tracking profit margins. She also encourages designers to educate clients early on timelines and set clear expectations. In closing, Laura expresses heartfelt gratitude for the support and engagement from listeners throughout the year, motivating her to continue delivering valuable content into 2025.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition.

The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design I @thorntondesign

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In this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, I’m joined by Nina Urzi, a powerhouse who transitioned from the tech industry to transform her family’s overwhelmed construction business into a thriving 8-figure company. With her background in corporate HR, sales, and marketing, Nina leveraged her expertise to implement systems, streamline processes, and build a successful construction business with more than 20 employees.

Now, as a stand-in COO for construction companies aiming to scale, Nina shares her unique perspective on how designers—especially women—can navigate the construction job site with confidence and authority. From building strong relationships with contractors to communicating effectively and handling challenges head-on, Nina’s advice is invaluable for anyone working in this space.

Whether you’re new to construction or looking to refine your approach, Nina’s story and insights will leave you inspired and equipped to thrive on the job site.

Links & Resources:

• Connect with Nina Urzi: Website 

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition.

The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design I @thorntondesign

Send us a text

In this podcast episode, we explore how niching down can help interior designers thrive in a competitive industry. Instead of trying to appeal to everyone, focusing on a specific audience allows you to sharpen your marketing focus, create meaningful connections, and position yourself as an expert. By identifying your strengths, passions, and the clients you enjoy working with most, you can align your business with a niche that’s both fulfilling and profitable. We discuss six key benefits of targeting smaller markets, from crafting stronger pitches and smarter spending to building trust and a distinct brand identity. This focused approach simplifies your marketing efforts, maximizes your impact, and lays the foundation for sustainable growth, empowering you to create deeper connections with the right clients while building a business you love.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces

Laura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition.

The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces
Thornton Design I @thorntondesign