In this episode, marketing expert Mia Fileman of Campaign Del Mar explains why campaign marketing isn't just for big brands with big budgets. Learn how small businesses can create high-impact, low-cost marketing campaigns that deliver real results, and why relying solely on "always on" social media marketing often leads to frustration and minimal returns.

I hope you enjoy the episode.

Beth xx

Mia has kindly shared with my listeners a download to help with their marketing strategies

https://www.campaigndelmar.com/focus-framework

• The crucial difference between "always on" marketing and campaign marketing 

• Why most small businesses are missing out on the power of campaigns • How to create high-impact campaigns without high budgets • The problem with relying solely on Instagram for business growth • Why in-person connections often deliver better results than social media • The current state of marketing ethics and authenticity

✨ Campaigns are short, focused efforts with specific objectives ✨ Plan campaigns 10-12 weeks before launch for best results ✨ Become "customer fanatics" to develop effective campaign ideas ✨ Reuse campaign assets to maximize your investment ✨ Consider in-person events over expensive social media advertising ✨ Trust your instincts about marketing tactics that feel inauthentic

• How to plan a campaign timeline that works • Creating campaigns for businesses that only need a few clients per year • Building a bank of reusable marketing assets • Balancing online presence with in-person networking • Maintaining authenticity in your marketing approach

• Small business owners frustrated with social media results • Interior designers looking for more effective marketing approaches • Entrepreneurs who want to stand out from competitors • Business owners uncomfortable with pushy marketing tactics • Anyone looking to get better returns on their marketing investment

"A campaign is a connected series of actions leading to the desired outcome... They are configured to capture attention for a short amount of time. They are short bursts of activity." - Mia Fileman

Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.

1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox

2. Start a  HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.

I only have 8 spots available every month.

3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.

4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio

5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.

• Why even the most talented designers can struggle financially 

• Common ways money slips through the cracks in design businesses 

• The mindset shift from "hobby" to "profitable business"

• How to set up proper accounting systems (Xero, QuickBooks, MYOB) 

• The importance of weekly cashflow reviews 

• Identifying patterns in your business finances 

• Common cashflow mistakes to avoid:

• Spending money before it's in the bank
• Forgetting about tax and business expenses
• Not paying yourself first

• Invoice on time, every time - as soon as milestones are reached 

• Set clear payment terms (7 days vs. "due upon receipt") 

• Utilize automated invoicing and payment reminders 

• The "accounts department" email trick for following up on late payments 

• Recommended reminder cadence:

• 3 days before due date
• On the due date
• 7 days overdue

• Why undercharging puts a lid on studio growth • Factors to consider when setting your rates:

• Experience and expertise (including transferable skills)
• The value you bring to clients' lives
• Time spent on all aspects of projects • Questions to ask yourself about your pricing:
• Are you making a profit on every project?
• Are you including markup on sourced products?
• Would you be happy doing the project at this price again?

Download this month's free Project Tracker template to help monitor the financial health of your projects. 

This episode is perfect for interior designers who want to strengthen the financial foundations of their business, ensure they're getting paid what they're worth, and build a truly profitable design studio.

Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.

1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox

2. Start a  HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.

I only have 8 spots available every month.

3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.

4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio

5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.

• The problem with showing only final images 

• Why a portfolio of just "after" photos is like "showing a wedding photo album to explain what marriage is like" 

• How clients view your portfolio differently than you might think

• How to bridge the knowledge gap between designers and potential clients 

• Why process-driven storytelling helps clients self-qualify 

• How a well-crafted portfolio saves you time in consultations

• Brief description of the client and their challenges 

• Clear explanation of your role and scope 

• Process highlights (mood boards, floor plans, behind-the-scenes moments) 

• Client feedback quotes 

• Visuals that show the journey from before to after

• Why clients aren't just choosing a style—they're choosing a guide 

• How showing your process reduces client anxiety 

• The difference between a portfolio and a welcome guide

• Start with 2-3 projects you're most proud of 

• Write client-friendly narratives that explain your process 

• Include progress photos that showcase your deliverables 

• Avoid industry jargon that might confuse potential clients

This episode is perfect for interior designers who want to attract better-fit clients, set clear expectations from the start, and build trust before the first consultation. Your portfolio isn't just a marketing asset—it's the first step in your client experience.

Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.

1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox

2. Start a  HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.

I only have 8 spots available every month.

3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.

4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio

5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.

Every interior designer knows the chaos of managing multiple projects simultaneously—design concepts to finalize, orders to place, client emails to answer, and site visits to attend. Without a centralized system, important details slip through the cracks, deadlines are missed, and stress levels rise.

A well-structured project tracker gives you a bird's eye view of every project. So at any moment, you know what stage each project is at. No more guessing.

I hope you enjoy the episode

Beth xx

Download the FREE template here.

Key Components of an Effective Tracker

The best project trackers include just enough information without becoming overwhelming:

• Project Overview: Basic project identification including client name and address 

• Key Dates and Deadlines: Major milestones, builder deadlines, and order timelines 

• Task Breakdown: Clear responsibilities for each phase of the project 

• Communication Schedule: When you'll update clients to maintain trust and expectations

"A project tracker isn't just a glorified to-do list. It's a system that helps you manage all the moving parts of a project in one place," Beth emphasizes.

While many sophisticated project management tools exist, I recommend starting simple:

"I actually use a good old Google Sheet or Excel. It's really simple. It's easy to customize. You can have tabs for multiple projects."

The most important factor isn't which tool you use, but whether you consistently use it.

For your project tracker to be effective, I suggest three key habits:

• Start each day by reviewing your tracker before checking emails 

• Update it in real-time as you complete tasks 

• Schedule a weekly check-in to ensure everything is current

"I can guarantee there is no better feeling than at the end of your work week... you make sure your project tracker is up to date and you can see exactly where you are on all your projects."

This episode is essential for interior designers who want to reduce stress, improve efficiency, and ensure no important details fall through the cracks in their design projects.

Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.

1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox

2. Start a  HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.

I only have 8 spots available every month.

3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.

4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio

5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.

In this week's episode, Nikki McGar shares her journey from Airbnb host to sought-after interior designer. Learn how she creates memorable vacation rental experiences through storytelling, incorporates vintage pieces with modern design, and builds a thriving design business in the Geelong area.

I hope you enjoy the episode.

Beth xx

• The transition from teaching to interior design through Airbnb hosting • Creating memorable vacation rental experiences through storytelling • The vibrant Geelong design scene and coastal inspiration • Balancing beautiful aesthetics with practical considerations for guest turnover • Incorporating vintage pieces to create spaces with character and soul • Current design trends including color experimentation and playful elements

✨ Say yes to opportunities that come your way ✨ Develop a clear "house story" to guide your design decisions ✨ Consider the architecture and location when styling spaces ✨ Mix vintage and modern pieces for spaces with character ✨ Don't be afraid to use color and express personality

• How to approach Airbnb styling differently from residential design • Finding and repurposing vintage furniture • Creating spaces that photograph well but also function practically • Working with clients to develop their property's unique identity • Building a design business in a regional area

• Airbnb and vacation rental hosts • Interior designers interested in the short-term rental market • Anyone considering a career change to design • Designers looking to incorporate more vintage pieces • Property owners wanting to create spaces with personality

"Creating this other world for people to enjoy just for a short period of time" - Nikki's perspective on the magic of Airbnb styling.

Nikki McGar - Nikki McGar Interiors

Nikki McGar Interiors

Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.

1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox

2. Start a  HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.

I only have 8 spots available every month.

3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.

4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio

5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.

In this episode, I tackle one of the biggest stress points for interior designers: project timelines. If you've ever had a client ask "When will this be done?" or "Why is this taking so long?", you know how frustrating timeline confusion can be. Learn how a clear, structured timeline doesn't just keep clients happy - it keeps you in control.

I hope you enjoy this episode

Beth xx

• Why timelines are your best defense against client frustration 

• The most common timeline mistakes designers make 

• How to create a project timeline that actually works 

• What to do when timelines start slipping 

• Strategies for communicating timelines effectively

✨ Most client frustrations aren't about delays - they're about misaligned expectations 

✨ Include timelines in your fee proposal so clients accept them upfront 

✨ Always build in buffer time (if you think it takes 6 weeks, plan for 8) 

✨ Break timelines into clear, digestible phases 

✨ Consistently reinforce the timeline throughout the project

• Not setting a timeline until it's too late 

• Being too optimistic about timeframes 

• Not communicating the timeline clearly 

• Failing to build in buffer time 

• Neglecting to reinforce the timeline regularly

• Break projects into clear phases (concept development, design and documentation, etc.) 

• Build in checkpoints for client feedback 

• Communicate the timeline consistently

 • Include the timeline in fee proposals and welcome packs 

• Update and resend timelines after completing each phase

• Stay ahead of it - tell clients before they ask • Frame delays positively: "To keep quality high, we need an extra week" • Offer solutions and revised timelines • Put client-caused delays in perspective: "Once we receive your feedback, we can move forward"

• Designers struggling with client timeline expectations • Anyone facing "why is this taking so long?" questions • Business owners wanting smoother project management • Designers ready to strengthen their processes • Studios looking to build client trust

Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.

1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox

2. Start a  HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.

I only have 8 spots available every month.

3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.

4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio

5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.

In this episode of Design Dialogues, I sit down with two experienced interior designers - Daryl Wark from Interiors by Daryl Wark and Sarah James from Greenwoods Home. This candid conversation reveals the realities of running a successful interior design studio and offers invaluable insights for both new and established designers.

I hope you enjoy the episode

Beth xx

• Career Transitions: Both guests share their journeys to interior design as second and third careers, bringing valuable skills from previous industries
• The Business Reality: Why design is only 20% of running a successful studio, and what makes up the other 80%
• Setting Boundaries: How to manage client relationships, protect your time, and avoid burnout as an introverted designer
• The Retail Dream vs. Reality: Hard-earned lessons from both designers' experiences with brick-and-mortar and online retail ventures
• Client Management: Practical advice on documentation, communication, and trusting your instincts about potential clients
• AI in Design: How both designers are incorporating AI tools into their workflows to save time and enhance their services
• Industry Evolution: Exciting developments in the Brisbane design scene and how technology is creating new opportunities

"I think a true really good designer... there is a role for everyone in design. So whether you think 'I'm not good enough because I can't draw' or 'I'm not good enough because I'm not good with color'... there is a role for you somewhere in this industry." - Daryl Wark

"You're better off to have mints on toast for a week than have to deal with the pain of a bad client." - Daryl Wark

"Design school kind of only really gets you to the front door. And then that on-the-job training is when you really learn how the house is put together." - Beth Bieske

• Daryl Wark: Interiors by Daryl Wark
• Sarah James: Greenwoods Home

Whether you're just starting your design career or looking to refine your established business, this episode offers honest, practical advice from designers who have navigated the challenges of building successful studios.

Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.

1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox

2. Start a  HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.

I only have 8 spots available every month.

3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.

4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio

5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.

Most client frustrations don't come from bad design - they come from unclear communication. In this episode I provide actionable communication strategies to prevent problems before they start.

I hope you enjoy the episode

Beth xx

• Proactive updates that prevent client anxiety 

• Clear boundaries that protect your time 

• Transparent pricing that builds trust

• Send weekly or bi-weekly progress updates at appropriate times 

• Tell clients what's happening before they have to ask 

• Set expectations about communication frequency upfront 

• Reassure clients that things are moving forward

• Include a "How We Work" section in your onboarding pack 

• Specify preferred communication channels 

• Set clear response times (e.g., within 48 hours, Monday-Friday) 

• Educate clients who don't follow your guidelines

• Frame pricing as a flexible investment from the start 

• Break down costs clearly in proposals 

• Provide specific line items rather than package totals 

• Update clients on pricing changes as the project evolves

• When clients want extra work: "I'd love to explore that for you. Some additional layouts take extra design time. I can put together a quick estimate so you can decide if you'd like to move forward with it." 

• When clients question pricing: "I totally understand. Quality cabinetry is a big investment and we've sourced a supplier known for craftsmanship and durability. If we need to adjust the budget, we can look at alternative materials or finishes to bring the cost down. Just let me know what works for you."

• Preempt problems before they start 

• Set boundaries from day one 

• Be clear, calm, and proactive in every conversation

Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.

1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox

2. Start a  HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.

I only have 8 spots available every month.

3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.

4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio

5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.

Every interior designer will face indecisive clients at some point. This episode provides a structured approach to managing client indecision without endless back-and-forths or project delays.

I hope you enjoy the episode

Beth xx

Download your free Client Decision Guide here

• Decision fatigue from too many choices 

• Fear of making the wrong choice 

• Emotional attachment to the project 

• Influence from family and friends

• Include decision deadlines in your contract 

• Use 48-72 hour decision windows 

• Explain the consequences of delays 

• Create visual timelines for decision points 

• Limit options to prevent overwhelm 

• Present cohesive schemes rather than isolated choices

• "Based on your style and budget, here is the scheme I've put together. Each piece has been carefully selected to align with your design vision." 

• "I totally understand you want to explore all possibilities, but adding more options at this stage can slow down our progress." 

• "If we change the sofa now, there's a restocking fee of $500 plus a six-week delay. Would you like to proceed?"

• Implement a change order process 

• Include additional fees for revisions 

• Emphasize financial and timeline impacts 

• Create a final approval meeting 

• Develop clear policies around revisions

Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.

1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox

2. Start a  HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.

I only have 8 spots available every month.

3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.

4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio

5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.

In this episode, we tackle scope creep - that slow, sneaky project killer that eats away at your profit, burns you out, and leaves you resenting even your best clients. Learn practical scripts and strategies to maintain clear boundaries while preserving great client relationships.

I hope you enhoy the episode

Beth xx

• Why scope creep happens (hint: it's rarely because clients are trying to take advantage) • Three steps to prevent and manage scope creep effectively • Real-life scripts for common client scenarios • How to say "yes" while still protecting your time and profit • Alternative service options for clients who need extra work

✨ Set clear expectations from day one ✨ Respond confidently in the moment with prepared scripts ✨ Offer paid solutions for additional requests ✨ Frame boundaries as part of your professional process ✨ Always provide a path forward

• The "quick favor" request • Mid-project change requests • Last-minute design changes • Timeline adjustments • Additional design options

• Designers struggling with scope creep • Business owners setting boundaries • Anyone who finds it hard to say no • Designers who undercharge for extra work • Studio owners refining their processes

Want to work together? Here are the ways I can help you in your business.

1.Sign up to our MAILING LIST where each month you will receive helpful business tips straight to your inbox

2. Start a  HEALTH CHECK today. We will work together for 8 weeks and improve your systems and processes.

I only have 8 spots available every month.

3. Start my course THE PROCESS so you know exactly what to do when in your interior design studio.

4. Have a look at THE RESOURCE STOCKROOM - this is where you will find our short courses and free resources to help you run a better interior design studio

5. Want to use our tool MTTD in your studio? Start your FREE 30 DAY TRIAL today.